Quiet Luxury: Why Understated Design Speaks Loudest This Summer

There’s a certain confidence that comes with not needing to shout. We see it in fashion with the perfectly tailored blazer, the discreet designer bag without a logo in sight. And increasingly, I’m seeing it in the homes I design. It’s called quiet luxury, and while the term may be trending, for me, it’s always been the hallmark of truly sophisticated interiors. 

Back in the spring, I briefly touched upon this idea and the move away from obvious displays of wealth towards a more refined, considered aesthetic. The response from clients and readers was immediate. It struck a chord, particularly here in Cheshire, where elegance is often best expressed in subtlety, not excess. So, as summer arrives, bringing with it a natural desire to pare back and embrace simplicity, I felt it was the perfect time to explore quiet luxury in more detail. 

Because quiet luxury isn’t just a style, it’s a mindset. It’s about designing spaces that feel luxurious without ever having to prove it. Spaces where quality speaks through the weight of a door handle, the softness of a handwoven rug, or the perfectly balanced proportions of a room. It’s less about impressing others, and more about creating an environment that nurtures a sense of calm, comfort, and timeless elegance. If done right, the neighbours are left green with envy regardless.  

When I walk into a space, I don’t want to be greeted by a cacophony of small pieces or the latest ‘must-have’ finishes. I want to feel a sense of ease and a quiet confidence that comes from knowing every element has been chosen with care, not impulse. That’s when design truly elevates everyday living. 

Here are my top 5 tips to achieve quiet luxury admirably.  

1. Let Materials Tell the Story 

At the heart of quiet luxury are natural, honest materials. Forget high-gloss surfaces or mass made synthetic finishes that scream for attention. Instead, think of textures that invite you to pause and appreciate their beauty such as honed marble, unlacquered brass, solid walnut, soft linen, and hand-thrown ceramics. 

I recently worked on a project where we opted for a raw deep veined fireplace - no polish, no embellishment. It became the focal point of the room, not because it was flashy, but because its simplicity allowed the craftsmanship and natural texture and tone to shine through. That’s the essence of quiet luxury: letting materials speak for themselves. 

2. A Palette of Restraint 

Colour is another key player. While bold hues can be fun, they rarely stand the test of time in a luxury setting. Quiet luxury leans into muted tones such as soft taupes, earthy greys, gentle greens, and layered tone on tone neutrals. These shades create a sense of serenity, allowing spaces to breathe and evolve with the seasons. 

Drawing from Cheshire’s own landscape, I often incorporate colours inspired by nature - the calming green of an ancient oak, the chalky tones of local stone, or the dusky blues of a summer evening sky within accent pieces. These palettes don't date; they settle into a home like they were always meant to be there. 

3. Invest in the Invisible Details 

One of the most overlooked aspects of luxury design is what I call the ‘invisible details’ - those elements that may not be immediately obvious, but which transform how a space feels. The smooth glide of bespoke joinery, the softness underfoot of a handwoven rug, the perfect dimming of layered lighting. 

It’s these quiet touches that elevate a home from beautiful to exceptional. I always advise clients to invest in craftsmanship over trends. A well-made piece, whether it’s a custom sofa or artisan lighting, will offer years, if not decades of understated elegance. 

4. The Luxury of Space and Simplicity 

There’s a misconception that luxury equates to ‘more’ - more furniture, more art, more embellishment. In reality, space is the ultimate luxury. Allowing a room to breathe, embracing negative space, and resisting the urge to fill every corner creates a sense of calm that no amount of ornamentation can replicate. 

This summer, as life naturally flows outdoors, it’s the perfect opportunity to reassess your interiors. Remove what no longer serves you, curate what remains, and appreciate the beauty of simplicity. A single, well-placed piece can have far more impact than a cluttered collection. 

5. Comfort is King 

Finally, never forget that true luxury is about how a space makes you feel. It’s the quiet joy of sinking into a perfectly upholstered chair at the end of the day, the gentle rustle of linen or wool curtains in a summer breeze, or the soft glow of ambient lighting as the sun sets over Cheshire’s countryside. 

I recently designed a reading nook for a client, nothing ostentatious, just a beautifully crafted armchair, bespoke shelving, and the kind of lighting that encourages you to stay a little longer. It was almost like having a small piece of a library. That, to me, is the pinnacle of luxury: spaces designed for living well, not just looking impressive. 

As we embrace the slower pace of summer, I believe quiet luxury offers a welcome antidote to the noise and excess of modern life. It invites us to invest in what truly matters, craftsmanship, comfort, and timeless elegance.