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Vintage Modern: Pairing Old and New
Authentic design doesn't mean buying everything new. It means blending your past along with your present to reflect a space that is genuinely you. Bring in grandpa's old trumpet and your grade school artwork from the attic. Mix it with your new furnishings and discover a space that is truly your own, with a vintage modern twist.
If you don't have family heirlooms, trade new for old with a neighbor or shop flea markets to add bit of warmth to your typically modern look. Furnishings and accessories should reflect who you are and have a story. They should spark a conversation at your next dinner party. So challenge yourself to find pieces that speak to you and tell your tale.
If you don't have family heirlooms, trade new for old with a neighbor or shop flea markets to add bit of warmth to your typically modern look. Furnishings and accessories should reflect who you are and have a story. They should spark a conversation at your next dinner party. So challenge yourself to find pieces that speak to you and tell your tale.
by Emily A. Clark
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Modern pattern and fabrics complement vintage casegoods and accessories, creating a cozy living space.
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| Color provides a contemporary punch accenting old books and collected artifacts. |
by Kerrie L. Kelly
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Gentlemen's chairs with modern art create a cozy room scene for cocktails and dice.
by Kerrie L. Kelly
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Contemporary artwork paired with a vintage buffet provides the perfect juxtaposition for a vintage modern look.
Tip: When combining new and vintage pieces, keep a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look.
Tip: When combining new and vintage pieces, keep a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look.
by Kerrie L. Kelly
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An heirloom area rug and light fixture anchors this contemporary dining room.
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Sleek finishes provide a simple backdrop for traditional furnishings, retro lighting and weathered stone to create a vintage modern look.
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| Simple lighting with classic icon accent furnishings gives a welcome feel to these living and dining areas.
How are you mixing new and old in your home? |
Comments
Ann-Tyler Konradi Beautiful. I have a lot of antique pieces that I inherited, but wouldn't necessarily have chosen. I'm always trying to figure out how to give them a more contemporary look. Thanks for this idea book!
2 years ago · Like
jillwilli Excellent ideas and beautiful photos! I am newly inspired to pair my antique iron bed with a contemporary piece of artwork.
2 years ago · Like
inkandiron I LOVE the distressed look, but worry about overdoing it. I think adding some modern pieces is a great way to balance it all out. Looking forward to the next post!
2 years ago · Like
caddie Love it! Great use of bold colors and unique lighting.
2 years ago · Like
Erin Acuna I love the use of color to join old and new elements; the color creates harmony between the two and makes an eye-catching statement!
2 years ago · Like
Kristen Gong That is such good advise! Especially in these economic times, it is great to reuse special items that we already have. Plus, as you say, then the elements in our home have special meaning. Thanks for the good tip, and inspirational pictures!
2 years ago · Like
sparklymom I LOVE Emily's blog!!!!!!
2 years ago · Like
hrberkowitz I love this look and now I have a name for it...vintage modern. I paired a farm table made from reclaimed barn boards with sleek wicker chairs and the drum shade chandelier. 
2 years ago · Like
hrberkowitz Sorry, previous photo had old table in it. Here is the new one with the farmhouse table. 
2 years ago · Like
rileysgranny Love the grey pinstripe chairs in the third photo. Very striking. I wouldn't mind having a pair in my library/den. Wouldn't they be cozy by the fire?!
2 years ago · Like
Sarah Pryor of Etown Kitchens + Baths Years ago, my father dubbed my mix of antiques/hand-me-downs with contemporary art "Early Salvation Army Abstract."
2 years ago · Like
Catherine Sands This is my favorite kind of design. It is somehow timeless and more intersting than completely modern or totally traditional. Thanks for sharing.
2 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Dec. 5, 2010.
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