Contemporary Grandfather Clock

Tara Gosselin Interior Design Expert

Tara is a San Antonio-based award-winning landscape architect, writer and educator, passionate about eco-friendly solutions and growing her own food. She knows all it takes to help you create a sustainable backyard retreat that combines blissful charm with a modern take on landscaping.

Updated 02/05/2021

The grandfather clocks of old are a lovely time piece to have in the home, but today's more modern home wouldn't do such an amazing item justice. You need, instead, a contemporary grandfather clock that will better suit your space. These are just as attractive as the hand carved clocks of old, with the update you want for your modern home.

Buying Guide

The traditional classic look appeals to many people, but the modern style is also an appealing option. Many people like to find some middle ground between the two opposites when it comes to the décor in their homes. A great way to add class and elegance with a modern touch is a contemporary grandfather clock. A purchase like this isn't something that everybody will make in their lifetime, so if you're feeling a little nervous about going wrong, here are some of the things you should consider.

What are contemporary grandfather clocks made of?

While traditional grandfather clocks are wooden, contemporary clocks can be seen in a variety of materials. One of the most common materials for modern clocks to be made from is metal, although they can still be found made from wood then painted and varnished with high gloss paint. Ultimately, there is almost no end to the number of different materials which are used to make modern furniture items, so it won't be difficult to find something that you love.

Where to place a contemporary grandfather clock in your home?

A grandfather clock will often look best in the largest room, and if that doesn't work, the room with the highest ceilings. This is why many grandfather clocks can be found in the hallway, where the room is high and narrow, the perfect shape to frame the clock. Before buying a grandfather clock, measure the height of the ceiling in the room you intend to put it. You can then get an idea of how far up the clock will reach.

Since grandfather clocks take up a fair amount of space, you need to make sure that you have the space to cater for it. If you can't immediately identify a part of the house that you would position the new clock, you may want to think about rearranging the furniture so that you have the extra space.

How to clean a grandfather clock?

Cleaning a modern grandfather clock is not much different to cleaning a traditional grandfather clock in terms of regular cleaning, but the products you use will vary. Older grandfather clocks made from wood normally require gentle and careful cleaning with specialized products. However, modern clocks which are made from metal or other sturdy materials can often just be dusted and cleaned along with the rest of your household furniture. If in doubt, speak to the supplier and ask what they recommend you do with the clock in terms of maintenance. Consider also that you'll need to clean the top of your clock which could be quite high depending on the size.

What are the most child-friendly designs of grandfather clocks?

If you have children, taking this into consideration when buying any piece of furniture is a necessity. Some modern grandfather clocks are certainly not traditionally shaped in that they don't stand on the floor, they hang on the wall. These tall clocks are most often suitable for homes with very high ceilings in order to allow enough space. Modern grandfather clocks which stand on the floor are normally as child-friendly as possible, although you should still exercise precautionary measures.