Affordable Ways to Decorate in Studio McGee’s New Heritage Style
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Studio McGee’s New Heritage style has is a beloved design aesthetic, and for good reason. It strikes the perfect balance between classic traditional interiors and a fresh, approachable modern edge. The look is timeless, layered, and welcoming, but it doesn’t have to come with a designer price tag. I’ve pulled together some budget-friendly ways to bring the New Heritage look into your own home without overspending.
1. Start with a Warm, Tradtional Color Palette
The New Heritage style is begins with a timeless palette. Navy, dark greens, and muted ochre layered over creamy whites and browns. You don’t need to repaint your entire house to capture the look. Instead, start with one key room: try Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee on the walls with a moody accent like Midnight Oil on a built-in or interior door.
Affordable Tip: Paint is one of the least expensive ways to completely transform a room. Even just painting your trim, mantle or a built-in can create a Studio McGee-inspired foundation.
Related Post: How to Use a Whole House Color Palette for Seamless Flow
2. Mix Classic Furniture Silhouettes with Casual Comfort
Studio McGee is known for pairing classic shapes, like rolled-arm or slipcovered sofas, with clean-lined coffee tables and sideboards. Or modern chairs upholstered in a traditional velvet, mixed with turned legged accent tables. The magic lies in blending timeless with modern, creating a warm and contemporary look that won’t feel dated in 2 years.
Affordable Tip: Check out sales at McGee and Co, Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel. Many of the products in Studio McGee’s shop are also at the bigger retailers where sales are more common. Shopping sales will be a sure way to find elegant furniture silhouettes for a fraction of the designer price. Don’t forget to check out Facebook Marketplace and thrift shops, a coat of paint or new hardware can make vintage finds feel fresh and heritage-inspired.
3. Layer Natural Textures
Texture is what gives New Heritage its lived-in, collected charm. Think linen throw pillows, jute or seagrass rugs, patinaed brass, and woven baskets. The goal is to create depth and warmth through tactile layers.
Affordable Tip: Choose your textures based on your budget. For example, linen curtains can be pretty pricey, so look for more affordable cotton options. Bring in linen texture in smaller decor pieces, such as pillows and throws.
Related Post: Styling a Console Table: 3 Foolproof Formulas for a Pulled-Together Look
4. Incorporate Artwork That Feels Curated
McGee-designed spaces always feature art that looks collected over time: vintage landscapes, moody abstracts, and framed photographs. This adds heritage-inspired character and makes your home feel personal.
Affordable Tip: Search Etsy for downloadable vintage art prints. You can find beautiful pieces for under $5 and print them at home. Thrift stores are goldmines for affordable frames that look high-end when styled in a gallery wall or leaned on a shelf.
SHOP Printable Art
5. Style with Heritage-Inspired Accessories
The finishing touches are what tie everything together. Use ceramic vases, antique-style candleholders, brass accents, and classic books to bring in warmth and character. Styling with restraint, rather than filling every surface, keeps the look polished and approachable.
Affordable Tip: Mix high and low. Splurge on one or two special pieces, like a hand-thrown vase, then fill in with budget finds from places like Target, Amazon, or even Facebook Marketplace. Thrifted books are incredibly inexpensive. Throw of the dust jackets and fill those shelves!
SHOP Threshold with Studio McGee
6. Elevate with Lighting
Lighting is one of the most impactful updates in design. Studio McGee often uses aged brass pendants, traditional lanterns, or sculptural table lamps to give rooms a collected feel.
Affordable Tip: Swap out builder-grade fixtures for affordable yet stylish options. Amazon, Home Depot, and Etsy carry timeless pieces at a fraction of designer prices.
7. Balance Minimalism and Warmth
One of the most approachable aspects of New Heritage is its balance: it’s not overly decorated, but it isn’t bare either. A few thoughtful layers go a long way.
Affordable Tip: Edit what you already own before buying new. Remove clutter, keep only pieces that add beauty or function, and then layer in textures, art, and lighting to achieve that collected yet cozy vibe.
Related Post: The Cozy Bedroom Lighting Formula: Layering Sconces, Lamps & Overhead Lights
Bringing It All Together
Studio McGee’s New Heritage style doesn’t have to be out of reach. By focusing on paint, textures, affordable furniture, vintage-inspired art, and thoughtful styling, you can create a home that feels timeless, layered, and uniquely yours, without blowing your budget.
If you’re looking for a starting point, I’ve put together curated roundup of affordable pieces for you.
Happy decorating!
SHOP the Affordable New Heritage Roundup
