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After decades of pared-back minimalism, people are craving the intricacies and warmth of a more traditional design approach. Pieces that are reminiscent of antiques, with decorative elements and flourishes that invoke craftsmanship and individual character.

But this isn’t a revival. It’s a reimagination. Traditional details can be blended with more modern silhouettes, or vice versa, for a look that’s classic, yet imaginative. Past comes together with present to create something completely new.

“We’re seeing a big resurgence in traditional design elements, but blended together in a modern context. Classic and iconic shapes are being reimagined in new ways, with intricate detailing used in sparing and surprising ways.”
Adam Dunn, SVP of Design

We’re entering a moment where the small things matter more than ever and little splashes of individual character are what make something truly special.

Be on the lookout for pieces that incorporate piping, cording, fringe, carving, statement hardware and pattern stories that are beautiful at first glance, and even better with a closer look. These are pieces where the maker’s hand can be felt in every design decision.

“Out there in the world, we’re seeing a renewed appreciation for decorative detailing that makes furniture feel more personal. It turns an ordinary piece into a story that keeps expanding, the longer you look.”
Adam Dunn, SVP of Design

At Country Living Furnishings, here in Calgary, we have always maintained that traditional interior design can stand the test of time. Choosing intentional pieces that are not trendy will ensure longevity in your home design. Work with one of our in house designers to realize your home style

Traditional design techniques create a sense of warmth, nostalgia and comfort. Modern design feels energized, sleek and forward-thinking. In this design story, we’re exploring pieces that pair both looks together to create a feeling that’s entirely new. It’s not a revival, it’s a reimagination.

“We’re always looking for ways to create unexpected combinations. And for the first time in years, we’re seeing traditional forms and details being pulled into a modern context.”​
Adam Dunn, SVP of Design Four Hands

Reimagined Classics
Timeless pieces with modern details create a contrast that feels layered and intentional. Look for contemporary styles with subtle references to iconic design techniques, like lighting with Venetian glass and angles reminiscent of classical architecture.

Modern Silhouettes With Traditional Details
Picture a modern, angular silhouette. Add to that traditional design touches and techniques — like piping and welting or antique finishes — and a beautiful balance of eras is struck. It’s a rich, distinctive look that invites you in and sparks conversation.

We’re always here to assist, visit us in store or email info@clfdesign.ca to get started!

Make a lasting first impression with our solid wood entryway furniture, proudly made in Canada. Choose from beautifully crafted console tables, storage benches, mirrors and ottomans that combine style with practical organization. Our collection is designed to welcome you home and keep your space clutter-free. We believe that entry ways should have three essentials:

• Seating- a spot for belonging and to slip off shoes.
• Console table or commode- ideal for keys, cards, and front door items
• Décor- Style your console table with a mirror, books, and botanicals to elevate the space.

With the right entryway furniture, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects your unique taste. Let us help you find pieces that blend seamlessly with your home’s design. Visit our showroom in SW Calgary or email us at info@clfdesign.ca to get started!

We worked with a lot of unique shaped spaces throughout the original log structure and finding ways to fill each space intentionally.

The owner’s mother was an antique dealer so sourcing antique vessels paid home age to the space’s history. A personal element we loved.

Did you know we have our very own delivery team? All furniture and accessories were delivered and set up by the CLF team prior to final styling.

Filling this living room with comfortable Canadian made pieces to complement the unique original log home.

The house featured dual master suites on the East and West side of the home.

This bedroom was for the owner’s daughter, calling for a touch of femininity. We played with creams and cool toned blues to bring colour to the space – creating the ultimate sanctuary.

The room features multiple seating areas including two window seats; the ultimate cozy place to curl up with a book, and a conversation space next to the fireplace.

As you can see in the before photos, originally this was one of the few rooms without hardwood floors. We were keen on adding wood floors here, then layering them with knotted carpets to introduce the “art” of the space.

Moody & sophisticated.
For the office, we opted for both a personal work desk and a conversation area.

Heavy textures & furnishings that enhance the refined atmosphere of the space.

Fun fact: This home has SIX wood-burning fireplaces, one of which is a two-way fireplace-one side in the living room and the other extending into this office!

This home had 25′ ceilings, an open floor plan and grand windows letting in lots of light – we had a lot of space to work with.

With each space, we wanted it to feel independent but cohesive with the open floor plan.

We anchored the dining room with a custom 10 seater table, perfect for entertaining.

Drawing the eye up to another statement piece, an antler chandelier tying in the cabin feeling of the home.

This hammered copper sink combines age-old artisan tradition with sustainable materials and functional design, adding character and warmth to distinctive spaces.

Ps… We custom made this vanity to fit within the logs of this powder room

2020 has been a year of many changes, and one many of us have experienced is a change in our working life. With so many working from home in Calgary, there has been a real boom in establishing a comfortable and functional home office space.

Whether you are working with a small space or a full room, these ideas can help you establish a home office space where you feel productive and creative, but also allows for a separation of work and play. 

Once you have decided where your office will be, you’ll need to decide on a desk. A desk is the heart of any office. Consider the workspace you are accustomed to in your workplace – do you sit, stand or move around all day? Aim to establish a similar space with a desk that allows you to be comfortable and productive. From built-in styles, to four legged stand alone desks, to narrow or wide desks for ample floor & pacing space, there is something for everyone and every space. 

Consider your homes style when creating your new home office, as you want the space to be a continuation of your home instead of an abrupt cubicle addition. If your home has traditional decor, aim for an office of timeless choices, such as a four legged free standing desk made of natural wood and soft, natural material armchairs. Should you wish to have a modern home office, aim for contemporary materials, such as a desk with metal legs, and a minimalist armchair with eye-catching features. 

There is nothing worse than having too much paperwork and not enough space to store it all, so don’t forget about your storage needs when building your home office. Whether it’s a desk with built in drawers, a file cabinet or credenza, ensure that you have a place for all your materials so you can put them away at the end of the day, helping separate work and home life. 

At Country Living Furnishings, we can create custom built in desks with features such as built in file cabinets or a pull out printer drawer. Need an office chair, desk lamp or accessories to style? Our designers here in Calgary can help you with everything you need to make your home office complete. 

We offer complimentary interior design service with any furniture purchase. Call us at 403-240-0111 or email us at info@countrylivingfurnishings.com to schedule your consultation today!

Add personal character to your home through the incorporation of unique art that speaks to you.

Diving into the world of art can be intimidating for many, and often, our designers are asked “What is the right artwork for this room?” Luckily, the answer is quite simple. Art is all about you. The art you collect and choose to display in your home should reflect your style, dreams, and memories, and the art will act as a focal standpoint that helps draw visitors into your rooms. Adding these unique pieces of art that speak to you will always be the perfect finishing touch to your home.

Still feel like a daunting task? Here are some of our tips on how to decorate with art.

Choosing the artwork:
Art reflects your personality, your hopes & dreams, and your most interesting stories. When selecting artwork, look for pieces you are excited to see every day. As we now spend more and more time at home, you want to surround yourself with items that encourage thoughtfulness, creativity, or joy. Surrounding yourself with art you love will help you enjoy being home.

The vendor that we purchase our art from is updates their selection seasonally, ensuring the availability of the latest trends and styles. Variety of sizes and styles by new and acclaimed talents provide our clients with their first choice in quality art. All our work is hand embellished, bringing a realistic painted look to each image. Each piece offers one of a kind representation.

Incorporating art into a room:
Our interior design team in Calgary can help you choose pieces for each room in your home. Whether choosing art as a large focal point in a room or a small piece to complete your built in or home office we can help each room feel inspired and intentional.

What to avoid:
Be careful! A frequent design error that we see people make is choosing art that is too small for their space. If you have a loved piece of art that is too small to be hung individually, try layering it in front of a mirror or adding it to a grouping of art, or a gallery wall.

Art is a chance for self-expression, and there is no better way to share your story than by filling your home with art you love. And remember, at the end of the day, art is only for you and only you must love it.

Still need help with art direction? We are here to help! We offer complimentary interior design service with any furniture purchase. Call us at 403-240-0111 or email us at info@countrylivingfurnishings.com to schedule your consultation today!

Check our Arts