‘Modern heritage’ is basically traditional design with a twist, blending timeless details with today’s cleaner, more curated aesthetic. Think classic furniture with sleeker silhouettes, dark woods paired with lighter upholstery, and heritage patterns like checks, plaids, and florals refreshed in updated palettes.
It’s about appreciating craftsmanship and nostalgia without feeling dated or old-fashioned, balancing comfort and sophistication. An example would be a classic wingback armchair with a sleeker outline, upholstered in a contemporary fabric. Solid pieces like this could prove a good investment in terms of durability, and you could even be handing them down as modern heirlooms. Here are some of our favourites.
1. Hereford leather Chesterfield armchair, Peppermill Interiors
Unwind in front of the fire with this Chesterfield armchair. Slightly reworked from your traditional Chesterfield, it has kept the classic winged back rest with pressed button upholstery but has taken on a more modern shape with minimalist armrests. £995, available from Peppermill Interiors.
2. Blue contemporary check scatter cushion, Ava Innes
This Archie cushion in 100% wool brings together two textures of an intricate tonal blues, yellow and red check on the front with a plain navy back. Woven in striking modern colours, this cushion is sure to add a pop of character to any space. Prices start at £53 for the cover only, available from Ava Innes.
3. Camille dining chair, Cotswold Company
This comfortable and elegant French-inspired chair with rattan back and fabric-covered padded seat will add a practical decorative touch anywhere in your home. Sturdily made from solid oak and oak veneers, it’s been given a hand-applied limewash finish to bring out the unique grain patterns. £299, available from Cotswold Company.
4. Milan throws, Bronte by Moon
A re-creation of a design found in a century-old pattern archive, this 100% merino wool throw has become an immediate favourite. Available in five different colourways with a reversible design, it costs £120 from Bronte by Moon.
5. Heritage collection Florentine New Zealand wool rug, daals
This hand-knotted rug, made from 100% pure New Zealand wool, combines traditional craftsmanship with a statement design to create an investment piece. Hand-knotted rugs are renowned for their intricate designs, exceptional durability, longevity and luxurious texture. Prices start at at £389.99 from daals.
6. Grey tartan wallpaper, Wallsauce
This made-to-measure grey tartan wallpaper mural is great for transforming walls quickly and easily. With a neutral colourway and over-sized modern print, it would look good as a feature wall. £33/m2, available from Wallsauce.
7. Checked table cloth, After Noah
This pure cotton woven table cloth in green and charcoal check was made in India and designed in Denmark. Matching tea towels available separately. £49, available from After Noah.
8. Rustic terracotta jug with handle, The Wisteria Tree
This rustic terracotta jug with handle will bring a warm tone to your home, whether used as an ornament or filled with your favourite blooms or dried flowers. £19.95, available from The Wisteria Tree.
9. Creek chest of drawers, Olivia’s
This unusual chest of drawers (also shown in main image) features a robust wooden frame and three spacious drawers for ample storage. Its sophisticated smoked wood finish adds modern refinement, making it a stylish and functional addition to any bedroom decor. £461, available from Olivia’s.
10. Blue Asquith tile, Bert and May
These times combine antique elegance with contemporary design—perfect for any modern or period setting. Whether enhancing your hallway floor or serving as an eye-catching kitchen splashback, these tiles will bring a splash of colour to any space. £87.36 for a box of 14, available from Hyperion Tiles.
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