Design. It’s subjective, innovative, and above all, expressive. And when it comes to interior design, this sentiment certainly rings true. We’ve all got our own favourite styles and perceptions of design, making every home unique to its owner. What is incredible, however, is how historic references in design continue to exist in contemporary homes – and it’s all about finding the balance.

In Australia, although we are still considered quite a young country, we have a rich history that can be seen through the buildings and eras of architecture that define our cities and street scapes. And when it comes to designing the interiors of these homes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with choices – especially if you’re looking to create a modern interpretation of a traditional style.

Take a late Victorian-era home with Italianate elements for example. Ornate lacework, tessellated verandah floors and pathways give a glimpse into the past. Of course, subject to Heritage overlay, the exterior will have to remain as genuine as possible, but inside is where you can really have fun with the design.

To keep the character of the home, retain as many ornaments such as cornices, ceiling roses, skirtings, and architraves as possible. These elements will ensure you’re showing your home the respect it deserves. If these aren’t in good nick, there are plenty of artisans out there that will create the perfect replica.

Now that you have retained original elements of the home, you can play around with furniture, colour, finishes, and furnishings. If your home is undergoing an extension as well as a renovation, you may wish to keep the heritage elements true to the era at the front of the home and introduce the contemporary flair to the back.

Do your research into the particular era of the home and get a better understanding of the colours and finishes akin to this time. Victorian homes featured wallpaper, parquetry flooring, and soft tones of pinks, sage, mustard, and burgundy. And while the traditional design of Victorian-era homes can be described as cluttered (sometimes to emulate aristocracy and wealth), this does not mean your reinterpretation has to be as cluttered.

Pick only a few elements you wish to feature and translate that into a modern, minimal aesthetic. For example, your entry hallway need only feature a beautiful traditional pendant light, ceiling rose, subtle wallpaper, and a dado rail to fulfill the Victorian-inspired design.

Finding the balance between traditional and contemporary design can be tricky, but with enough research, understanding, and confidence in your choices, your home will continue to stand the test of time.