Creating an inviting space that feels comfortable, but also interesting, shouldn’t be complicated. One of the best ways to accomplish this is to blend some vintage or antique pieces with more affordable, modern elements.
Finding the balance between old and new, however, can be tricky. Too much vintage says retro-granny, while too much modern can feel cold and stiff.
Below, I’ve pulled together five examples that best highlight a smart pairing:
Vintage Bench + Modern Bed
Benches are the Swiss army knives of furniture. This versatile piece works in nearly every room of the house, making for a smart vintage investment. Here, the leggy bench and patterned antique rug work really well to break up the solid, low-profile, visually heavy bed.
Suggestions: Vintage Bench |Â Modern Bed | Antique Rug
Large Scale Modern Art + Vintage Upholstered Chair
When buying vintage upholstered furniture, take into consideration the cleaning or reupholstering cost. In some cases the upholstery is in great condition and may just need a good cleaning, but decades of use can be hard on fabric. However, it can be well worth the extra expense for those lovely lines and sweet details.
The tufts and velvety sheen of this chair play well with the modern minimalist art. Meanwhile, the side table helps ground and neutralize the eccentric chair while mimicking similar brass hues.
Suggestions: Art | Upholstered Chair | Side Table
Modern Dining Room + Vintage Chairs
When incorporating vintage, don’t be afraid to mix styles. The primitive aesthetic of the chairs, the sleek table and funky light fixture make for a very clever mix. The chairs keep the room from becoming cold and the light fixture keeps it interesting.
Also, notice how the straight lines and harsh edges in the art and bookcases, replicated in the square structure of the chairs, harmonize nicely with the round table and organic orbed pendant.
Suggestions: Light Fixture | Table | Vintage Chairs | Abstract Art
Modern Kitchen + Antique Rug
Let us not forget the kitchen. This all-white, modern kitchen is far from sterile thanks to the colorful antique rug and whimsical pendants. Old and new elements create a perfect balance of sensible yet playful.
Suggestions: Antique Rug | Ikea Cabinets | Pendants
Vintage Credenza + Modern Art or TV
A console is the perfect opportunity for a big dose of vintage served up in a very practical way. Consider a vintage console for a drop zone in the entry, a dresser, or TV/media console. Because it is such a large piece, it is important to even it out with tasteful modern touches (i.e. art, lamps, accessories, or even a rug.)
Suggestions: Vintage Console | Modern Art | Lamp
You may already own several vintage pieces, or perhaps you’re getting ready to invest in your first. Either way, keep it fresh by mixing old and new; keep it within budget by mixing high and low. Remember to enjoy the process and take your time collecting pieces that are lovely, meaningful and useful for your lifestyle and home.
Which of these pairings feels the most approachable for you?
Featured Image via Emily Henderson
