Not to be confused with Early American, there’s a fresh design style sourced and built in the US that I collectively call American Traditional. In addition to good looks, interiors are fresh with a focus on form and function. The prominent styles are spare but not stark. Furnishings have a more sculptural look and are warm, inviting, and comfortable. The emerging trends in design give a new and vibrant voice to Made in America. American Traditional is a classic style that’s here to stay. Blog article: http://bit.ly/1eIE6GZ

1. Interior Design Trends: American Traditional
by Robin Lechner Designs robin@robinlechnerdesigns.com robinlechnerdesigns.com
Not to be confused with Early American, there’s a fresh design style sourced and built in the US
that I collectively call American Traditional.
American design is generally associated with the Early
American style of décor, constructed using local
materials
and
influenced
by
features
and
embellishments found on furnishings brought across the
pond from the home countries of the first colonists. The
styling was typically plain, simple, and functional.
There was a heavy puritanical influence founded on
bare necessity without undo ornamentation.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, American design
lacked its own identity. Furnishings were eclectic Europeanbased revivals. With the exception of a brief surge of
midcentury design, designs of more recent decades were
overshadowed by imports from overseas designers and
manufacturers. America imported goods from the most
remote corners of the world.
In the 21st century, interior architecture and design tastes
and focus are returning to the US. An image of American
design is currently developing its own unique identity created
by designers with a young and fresh perspective. Emerging as
American Traditional – a contemporary style that, while
reflecting a great cross pollination of European, Russian,
Asian, and South American influences, emphasizes Made In
America. Inspiration comes from the diversity of what exists
naturally throughout the country. Component materials are
sourced in the US with an emphasis on sustainable,
recyclable, and environmentally friendly qualities.
Interior spaces have evolved as well as the furnishings within
them. For example, open concept living/dining rooms have
become the standard of construction. Open kitchens further
extend interior space, often flowing to the outdoors, creating
a seamless transition from indoors to out. The kitchen island
provides multiple functions as a surface for cooking, serving,
and socializing.

2. Another American ‘tradition’ is the bathroom
designed as a personal resort with a natural
aesthetic. A spa-like look is inspired by nature,
using neutral color palettes with materials in
textured mirror, frosted glass, and architectural
tile. Graceful freestanding tubs are taking center
stage as giant spa tubs are losing ground. Aging
baby boomers are thoughtfully placing built-in
benches in showers.
In addition to good looks, interiors are fresh with a
focus on form and function. The prominent styles are
spare but not stark. Furnishings have a more
sculptural look and are warm, inviting, and
comfortable. The emerging trends in design give a
new and vibrant voice to Made in America. American
Traditional is a classic style that’s here to stay.
Blog article: http://bit.ly/1eIE6GZ
Technology is playing a growing role not
only in improved design and function,
but there’s an increased demand for
state-of-the-art customization from
appliances to audio visual equipment
along with trendy and sophisticated
looking installation. In one year I
designed 5 custom wall systems that
included TVs, AV components, improved
storage, fireplaces, and even a hidden
ironing board.
Robin Lechner Designs is a full service interior
design firm, serving South Florida, NYC, and
the Hamptons for over 15 years. As Principal,
my style is true collaboration, involving
clients in every stage of a design scheme from
inspiration
through
development,
to
placement of the final accessory. I do so
while maintaining a commitment to provide
the highest level of personal service and
attention. With my depth of experience,
skills, and resources, you can feel confident
that your project is in reliable and
experienced hands.