Scottish Heritage with a Modern Twist

When it comes to décor and soft furnishings, you cannot go wrong with a bit of homeland representation. We’re not suggesting that you go out and look for tartan paint (!) but there are lots of stylistic elements that can see your home transformed through contemporary Scottish ideas.  

Blending the traditional Scottish elements with modern design can create a unique and stylish home that celebrates both heritage and style.

Here are some interior design ideas to kickstart your contemporary Scottish makeover:

Decor

• Antique Furniture: Mix antique Scottish furniture with modern pieces for an eclectic look. A classic take on this is to pair an antique oak dining table with contemporary dining chairs.
• Highland Prints: Display prints and artwork featuring Highland landscapes and wildlife. You’ll no doubt have seen those colourful Highland Coo prints in galleries and gift shops across Scotland.
• Clan Crests: Incorporate clan crests and symbols into your decor for a personal touch. This doesn’t have to be on an obnoxious scale – think coasters or cushion covers.

Colour Palettes

• Muted Tartan: Use traditional tartan patterns in muted colours like grey, navy, and olive for a modern touch. For example, you could upholster a sofa in a muted tartan fabric for a subtle nod to Scottish heritage.
• Heather and Thistle: Incorporate shades of purple, lavender and green inspired by the Scottish heather and thistle. Paint an accent wall in a soft heather purple and add green throw pillows for a cohesive look.
• Natural Neutrals: Use earthy tones like beige, taupe and stone to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perhaps opting for a stone-coloured rug and taupe curtains to anchor the room.

Soft Furnishings

• Traditional Kilt Fabric Cushions: Use cushions made from traditional kilt fabrics for a pop of Scottish flair.
• Harris Tweed Upholstered Furniture: Choose furniture upholstered in Harris Tweed for a blend of tradition and modernity.
• Scottish Wool Blankets: Add Scottish wool blankets for warmth and texture.
• Thistle Motif Decor: Integrate decor items with thistle motifs, such as throw pillows or curtains, for a touch of Scottish symbolism.
• Modern Tartan Rugs: Anchor your space with a tartan rug in the living room, tying together traditional and contemporary elements.

Textures

• Wool and Tweed: Incorporate wool and tweed fabrics for a cosy and authentic Scottish feel by adding a tweed armchair or wool throw blankets to your living room.
• Leather and Wood: Use leather and wood elements to add a touch of ruggedness and warmth. For example, you could include a leather armchair and a wooden coffee table with a natural finish.
• Stone and Slate: Integrate stone and slate materials for a rustic yet modern look. Slate tiles make for a striking fireplace surround, as do stone countertops in the kitchen.

There are no “set rules” about how to create a contemporary Scottish look for your home. It’s all about celebrating heritage with a modern twist to create spaces that are cosy and inviting. You can look to celebrate Scottish designers with statement pieces or subtle touches.

Ready to diversify your property portfolio or look for your next rental property? If you want to visit us, you can pop in to 117 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TT.

Or, you can give us a call on 0141 357 3579 or email info@dwelloproperty.co.uk