Design details: Masculine design elements

When it comes to interior design, timeless style is always in vogue.  By adding details that are typically considered to be masculine design elements, we can play around with color and texture while keeping a classic aesthetic.   Of course, we’re not implying that these only work well in “manly” spaces; quite the opposite!  We enjoy taking these elements and adding a twist to create depth and interest to our designs.

Pinstripe

Menswear-inspired pinstripes have long had staying power in both fashion and interior design.  While the traditional style is usually a white pinstripe on a dark background, we prefer the reverse.  For instance, bed linens with crisp charcoal pinstripes against white lend a tailored vibe to any bedroom without feeling stuffy.

Matouk – Tristen bed collection

Herringbone

Another design element borrowed from menswear is the timeless herringbone pattern.  It’s applicable in a wide range of designs from hardwood floors to tiled kitchen backsplashes, marble shower niches to upholstered sofas and dining chairs.  There’s something visually pleasing about herringbone’s symmetry that appeals to almost everyone.  We recently installed a multi-floor herringbone stair runner in a client’s home and the result is so classic and elegant.

Herringbone stair runner
Herringbone stair runner by Glenna Stone Interior Design

Plaid

Plaid is a classic for a reason, and spans a breadth of styles from Glen plaids to windowpane.  To keep this staple feeling fresh and modern, we like large scale or graphic plaids.  Following this rule of thumb helps to prevent an accent from veering into “kilt” territory.  Kravet’s Modern Tailor line takes inspiration from bespoke suiting and translates that aesthetic into throws and pillows.  This pair of black and white plaids would be just as fabulous in a guest bedroom or breakfast nook as a study or den.

Kravet black and white plaid pillows
Kravet Modern Tailor throw pillows – London Calling and Pocket Square

Rivets and studs

Whether industrial or equestrian-inspired, rivets and studs often lean towards a masculine vibe.  To lighten and brighten the heaviness of this element, juxtapose it against a soft or creamy background.  This has the added effect of making the metallic accent pop and make more of a statement.  We love Phillip Jeffries’ collections featuring rivets, studs, and nailheads created by using ink to form raised relief patterns on a variety of backgrounds.

Phillip Jeffries – It’s Riveting wallcovering
Header image: Home office mood board with masculine elements by Glenna Stone Interior Design

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Glenna Stone Interior Design is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. Are you interested if online gambling is legal in Connecticut? In this case read Fancasinos.org to study Connecticut gambling laws. Also discover the best Connecticut online casinos. We invite you to visit our website, view our portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts on our blog

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