Grandmillennial: A modern take on Grandma’s style

Story and photos by SHARON WHITE

Grandmillennial design, also known as “Granny Chic,” is a decorating trend that has gained popularity because of its inviting, comfortable vibe. It seems the younger generation of millennials (late 20s and 30s) has adopted traditional design elements while adding their own fresh twists.

Temple homeowner Tiffany Parker loves classic style and owns many pieces which have been passed down from her mother and grandmother. She is always adding to her collections with estate sales and flea market treasures and items collected from her travels.

But, she also finds new treasures at stores like Marshalls or Home Goods that she mixes with items she already owns.

“My home is continually evolving,” Tiffany shared.

She adores color, and is a master at mixing patterns and fabrics. She finds that things can’t get too serious with her antiques and collectibles when she combines them with a little whimsy. She has, what she calls, her “special pieces” and her “playful pieces.”

In Tiffany’s home, everything is not vintage or antique, but her aged pieces bring a certain charm and even elegance to a room, while creating instant history.

“The house is small,” says Tiffany, who downsized when she moved from Austin to Temple a few years ago. But she kept her cherished pieces, and says, “I like to think of my home as a little jewel box. And, if I find something I love, I will find a place for it.”

How Can You Achieve the Look?

Here are some common elements found in grandmillennial design:

• Wallpaper (especially floral or botanical prints)
• Collections (silver, china, birds, books, crystal — anything really) grouped together
• Rattan, bamboo, wicker and cane furniture
• Books, books, books
• Family photo collections
• Antiques
• Wood furniture (walnut, mahogany, cherry)
• Monograms
• Patterned fabrics (chintz, toile, plaid)
• Accessories like candles, figurines, or whimsical seasonal decor
• Blue and white (china, vases, planters)
• Chandeliers (often with an updated twist)
• Needlepoint pillows
• Landscape art
• Botanical prints

If your style is more modern, you can incorporate contemporary furniture, art, lighting or mirrors to your space — as Tiffany has — to create a more updated, eclectic look.

After reading this list, you may think all these frou-frou accents might prove a little stuffy. But, it’s actually quite the opposite. This aesthetic is about creating a warm, livable space with vintage-inspired pieces you love. Think back to the charm of your own favorite aunt or grandmother’s home, and the feeling it evoked — a home that had been cherished and “collected” through the years.

The focus of grandmillennial design (or any design style) is on revealing “who you are” through your decorating. And when you enter Tiffany’s home, her warm, inviting — and very personal space — draws you in. It is uniquely her own and truly one of a kind.