The Field Guide to New Heritage Style
19 May –
The Field Guide to New Heritage Style
Contents
Rooted in tradition but designed for modern life, the Studio McGee signature aesthetic blends classic forms, natural textures, and thoughtful details to create interiors that feel collected, comfortable, and effortlessly timeless. Here, the five defining elements that shape New Heritage style.
Rooted in tradition but designed for modern life, the Studio McGee signature aesthetic blends classic forms, natural textures, and thoughtful details to create interiors that feel collected, comfortable, and effortlessly timeless. Here, the five defining elements that shape New Heritage style.
01
The Color Palette
Rooted, warm, effortlessly timeless.
The New Heritage color palette is built on warm, timeless hues that create inviting and layered interiors. Shea and the design team gravitate toward classic neutrals—like soft taupes, creamy whites, and muted browns—then accent with deeper tones like navy blue, forest green, and aged brass for richness and depth. These colors are ideal for creating cozy, elevated living rooms or sophisticated kitchen color schemes that stand the test of time. Subtle additions of color, such as dusty rose or ochre, add visual interest while keeping the palette grounded. Whether designing a serene bedroom or a classic family room, this curated interior color palette helps achieve a cohesive, heritage-inspired home.
Swiss Coffee
Our signature shade, Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore, has become almost synonymous with our brand—timeless, warm, and endlessly versatile. It’s the hue that graces the walls of Shea’s own home and serves as the perfect backdrop for the layered, lived-in look we’re known for. See all the paint colors in the McGee Home here.
Rattan
The mudroom in our Summit Estate project features a very fun pop of color. The walls, trimwork, and cabinetry are painted in Rattan by Benjamin Moore. See the entire paint guide of The Summit Estate here.
02
The Textures
Layered, natural, comfortably worn.
Texture is what brings depth and soul to a New Heritage space. Shea and the design team layer natural materials like linen, wool, jute, and reclaimed wood to create interiors that feel lived-in and organic. Whether it’s a handwoven rug, a stone wall, or patinaed brass, each element adds warmth and character to the space. Mixing tactile materials is key—raw steel with terracotta or grasscloth with travertine. This balance of unique texture and refined materials creates a home full of depth, warmth, and character, and one that feels uniquely Studio McGee.
Shea and the design team use McGee & Co.’s Magda Lounge Chair in our Water’s Edge project. The neutral and elevated shearling chair is loaded with texture.
03
The Silhouettes
Classic forms, modern ease.
New Heritage silhouettes are where old-world charm meets modern simplicity. Shea and the design team utilize classic furniture shapes—like spindle-back chairs, rolled-arm sofas, and pedestal dining tables—but reimagine them with cleaner lines, modern proportions, and timeless upholstery fabrics. The goal is to create rooms that feel collected and inviting, not overly styled. These traditional furniture pieces work seamlessly in modern classic homes, lending structure while keeping the vibe relaxed. It’s a blend of historical references with present-day function—perfect for anyone drawn to elegant, livable interiors.
04
The Styling
Curated, collected, uniquely you.
Styling a New Heritage space is all about curated simplicity—where each piece tells a story. Shea and the design team style shelves and tabletops with a mix of vintage finds, artisan ceramics, coffee table books, and natural elements like branches or woven baskets. The result is a lived-in, collected look that reflects the homeowner’s personality. Whether it’s a mantel styled for fall or a console table vignette, each moment feels intentional, personal, and timeless.
“When styling shelves, the very first step I recommend to do is to take everything off and start with a blank slate.”
Shea McGee
05
The Layout
Functional flow, grounded beauty.
Every New Heritage layout starts with how a family actually lives in the space. Shea and the design team build floor plans with function and flow in mind, using thoughtful furniture placement to encourage conversation, comfort, and daily ease. In open-concept homes, rugs, light fixtures, and architectural details subtly define zones like the living room, kitchen, or dining area. In addition, whether creating a cozy seating arrangement or a welcoming entryway, each layout flows into the next through a curated, cohesive design. It’s about designing a functional interior layout that balances beauty with everyday life.
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