Ancient Greek motifs getting a fresh look from home decorators

If you're a fan of traditional dcor, you probably appreciate the elegant lines and rich history of neoclassical style.

Interest in classical style really took off in the second half of the 18th century, when Scottish architect Robert Adam began using its elements in fancy homes, says London designer Adrienne Chin. Adam recast urns, sphinxes and vine leaves as decorative elements in mirrors and moldings.

"Adam's style owed much to the archaeological discoveries of Greco-Roman domestic architecture at Pompeii and Herculaneum," says Chinn.

The historical discoveries also inspired the development of neoclassical furniture, which replaced the fussy rococo style with more linear, geometric silhouettes.

Below: A bust of Ariadne cast from plaster is hand rubbed to give it an aged look as an elegant objet d'art from the neoclassical era. (AP Photo/Restoration Hardware)

Today, Greco-Roman classicism is the basis of many interior dcor styles Louis XV, Regency, Federal and Georgian among them, says New York designer Elaine Griffin. "As the oldest recognized style, classicism carries with it the approbation of time and taste," Griffin says.

And while it never falls too far off dcor's radar, it's really enjoying a moment now.

"Classicism's clean, sleek lines are back with a vengeance this summer, both in a refined way and in over-the-top, tongue-in-cheek style statements," she says.

There are many ways to introduce the style into traditional or contemporary spaces, and at various price points.

"Lamps are a great way to bring a neoclassical touch into your dcor classic urn shapes, columns or classical motifs like acanthus leaves look elegant, particularly when paired with a black card or pleated silk Empire lampshade," Chinn suggests.

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Ancient Greek motifs getting a fresh look from home decorators