‘Something new, something old’ isn’t just for a charming bride; it is a guideline for your home too.
Think of it, a home with only new things in it is going to look impersonal and soulless, bereft of that personal touch that makes a home, well, a home. In contrast, an abode with only old things in it is going to look stuffy and dated. Now think of a home with things old as well as new, and you will get that precious lived-in feel.
Mixing modern and vintage is the best way to create a home that looks as if it has evolved with time. So, how does one get this mixing of old and new right? How does one ensure that this blending creates visual intrigue without the slightest bit of chaos?
We have five tips and guidelines to help you design a home that beautifully blends the contemporary with vintage/ antiques.
- Unify with a Common Factor –
While everything in a home shouldn’t match, too much mismatch can lead to a mishmash. Eclectic decors are sometimes like walking on a razor’s edge as getting the balance in place can be a real challenge. One useful trick to get around mixing modern and vintage pieces is to unify the pieces by reupholstering the old and the new furniture in the same fabric. Or if you are using different fabrics, make sure the color is the same for each one. To achieve this, you can use the same fabric for your custom curtains and sofa or chair covers. Or, you can create groups based on functions. For example, a collection of animal figurines can include pieces in wood, marble, plaster of paris, ceramic, stone, glass, etc. from different art periods.
- Where to Find Vintage/ Antique Pieces –
Contemporary pieces are easy to find. It is the traditional pieces that need hunting. Our very first tip has to be about finding vintage (20-100 years old) and antique (100+ years old) things you want in your home. Some of these could be your inherited pieces, cremation urns, and family heirlooms. Also, something from your childhood or youth that has sentimental value for you is a must-add for your home. You can also scour antique shops, second hand markets, and yard/ garage/ estate sales for old and beautiful things. You can also check for quality antique reproductions.
- Think Functionality –
Most old things were created for old-time lifestyles when houses were large and manual labor was relatively inexpensive. The pieces you pick for your home should ideally have some utility that is relevant to your current lifestyle. You can, of course, still use many pieces for their original purpose; such as an old dining table that can still be your dining table (pair it with modern chairs for an eclectic twist) or an old study desk that can be used as your home workstation desk. For other objects that are no longer relevant to modern lifestyles, think of upcycling and repurposing. We have a few examples: a heavy copper urn can be repurposed as a vanity sink and an old hand-painted kettle can be turned into a kitchen vase. Use your creative instinct to find new uses for old things and your home will have the much coveted individualistic stamp.
- Follow the 80:20 Rule –
Even blending the old and the new in décor can have many style sub-categories such as orthodox, classic, relaxed, whimsical, or outright dramatic. If you aren’t quite sure of the effect you want or are uncomfortable with extremes, it is better to stick to the 80:20 rule. Yes, 80:20 works for more than just diet, time, and money management. If your taste is predominantly modern, keep 80% contemporary pieces and 20% old ones. In this case, you can use an old rug with a contemporary center table. If you are more inclined towards traditional charm, reverse this by keeping your décor 80% vintage and 20% contemporary. For example, you could use a traditional damask patterned wallpaper on the walls but get custom roman shades with modern clean lines. Either way, your home will look well-loved and lived-in.
- Keep in Mind the Ratio and Proportion –
The pieces that go into your space should blend in or stand out without clashing with the rest of the room. Too many small pieces can definitely give any space a cluttered feel. On the other hand, too many large pieces can make a space feel claustrophobic – especially if you’re decorating a small room. While buying new things, match them to the size of the room. However, if you have an extra large piece of vintage furniture – an old armoire or a four poster bed or a wardrobe – you don’t have to give it up. Just make it the focal point of your space. Keep the other things understated and you will have a winner for sure.
Besides these five useful tips, we also have some more obvious suggestions to make your home look lived in without looking soulless or shabby. Clear out the clutter, keep all things in good working condition, repair any chips, dents, and tears in time, and you will have a home to be proud of.
