– by Tracey Jones (Remarkable ReDesign & Home Staging) and Stacey Kaminski (Styles by Stacey) –
“Out with the old, in with the new.” A phrase we hear repeatedly in this Buy! Buy! world. But in design, old can sometimes be a breath of fresh air.
There are many definitions for “vintage” and “antique” but a loose guideline is:
Vintage: anything at least 40 years old but less than 99 years.
Antique: pieces 99 years and beyond.
Here’s how to incorporate a mix of vintage and modern into your homes.
Search for the right piece. Before bringing something old into your space, decide what it means to you and what role it will play in the overall scheme. Centre stage or in a collection? To create a cohesive design, you need a good combination of vintage and modern, and a few other interesting transitional pieces to bridge the gap between styles. A brilliantly weathered and decaying trunk can be the centerpiece of your living room, even when surrounded by a new sofa and chairs.
Carefully chosen pieces that sing to you are always winners; too many and you will end up with a mish-mash collection. Instead, trust your instincts – look for pieces that remain true to their time and but also speak to your style!
A lesson in contrast! To successfully blend styles and eras, balance is key. Contrast! Pair a vintage table with modern bowl or use a vintage vase on a lacquered side table. Decide what your largest piece is and contrast it with smaller groupings or collections from another time and place. We recently used a client’s treasured old suitcase and made it a unique table for her living room – something she will enjoy every day!
Balance can also be created through colour, scale, pattern and texture. To make the space your own, combine these elements in unexpected ways. Find items that are unified through these elements to create vignettes in a room. Old wood in any condition – sometimes more worn is better – is a beautiful layer of texture, as are antique linens and baskets. Vintage crystal can add a unique sparkle to the room.
Vintage can be modern. Mid-Century design is a great bridge between décor eras and a great place to start if you are unsure where to start. Classic clean lines provide an easy-on-the-eye look. Thrift and secondhand stores are full of Mid-Century Modern furniture glassware and décor pieces, although with its return to vogue, savvy resellers can ask much higher prices. Shop wisely!
Creating art from vintage and antique treasures is a great way to add some interest to your space. Enlarge and frame old letters/nvelopes to hang over a desk or entryway! We have also seen old maps and antique blueprints framed for a one of a kind look. Most of all have fun with old pieces that speak to you and enjoy them in your space!
For more information visit www.remarkableredesignstaging.com.
