Prime Highlights:
- Tennis-Core blends preppy nostalgia with simple luxury, bringing the look of tennis courts into home décor.
- The trend encourages playful, refined touches, from vintage racquets to subtle pops of color, without overwhelming the space.
Key Facts:
- Tennis-Core emerged in 2024 and draws inspiration from classic country club décor, including green and white awnings, white benches, and grid patterns.
- Designers emphasize restraint over maximalism, favoring clean lines, vintage pieces, and natural materials for a timeless look.
Background:
As the tennis season kicks off and the Grand Slams draw attention worldwide, a new home design trend is gaining popularity: Tennis-Core. First seen in 2024, it mixes preppy nostalgia with understated luxury, giving a fresh spin to classic East Coast style with a touch of retro sports charm.
Designers say the trend fits today’s focus on health, wellness, and a balanced lifestyle, as more people spend time outdoors and stay active beyond work. “There’s a rising community around tennis and other social sports. It’s the modern-day ‘golf course,’ and everyone is welcome,” explains Cece Bowman of Cece Bowman Interiors.
Tennis-Core draws inspiration from the sport itself: green courts, crisp whites, and the textures of netting, alongside vintage racquets and subtle pops of neon. The style is all about simple, elegant design rather than bold or over-the-top looks.
Interior expert Greeley says Tennis-Core takes inspiration from classic country club décor, using green and white awnings, white benches, grid patterns, and vintage tennis gear. “Stick to the palette of the courts, but don’t be afraid to experiment with bold yellows, Kelly greens, or terracotta clay tones for a playful touch,” Greeley adds.
Vintage and natural elements are key to achieving the Tennis-Core look. Designers recommend incorporating rattan trays, side tables, and bar carts, alongside dark wood pieces like trunks or campaign chests. Retro tennis photography can also make a striking statement over a console or credenza.
Humor and subtle references are welcome, too. Bowman recommends adding small, playful touches, like a pillow with a tennis joke or a single bathroom accessory, but says too many can make the room feel cluttered.
Whether you’re redecorating a whole room or just adding a striped throw, Tennis-Core is a stylish way to bring the look of tennis courts into your home. With its mix of vintage pieces, clean lines, and preppy style, this trend shows that tennis can be more than a sport; it can be part of your home’s style.
