Vintage Modern: Featuring Heirlooms and Found Items
Can't Get Rid of It? Here's How to Create a Warm Mix of Old and New
To pull off a vintage modern style, you will need to visit your attic or the storage unit full of grandma's heirlooms you didn't know what to do with—but couldn't get rid of. The beauty of vintage modern is that it allows you to reflect your history and the things you love while living in an updated, approachable space.
It takes organization to pull of this look well. Ordered mementos contribute to the modern feel while creating a warmth from the story behind each piece. In some spaces, white walls provide the most appropriate backdrop. In other areas, pieces call for a fresh coat of brightly colored paint to make it work.
It takes organization to pull of this look well. Ordered mementos contribute to the modern feel while creating a warmth from the story behind each piece. In some spaces, white walls provide the most appropriate backdrop. In other areas, pieces call for a fresh coat of brightly colored paint to make it work.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Vintage industrial lighting in a natural kitchen setting adds drama to the hub of the home. Modern finishes of granite, stainless and white woods only complement the antique elements above. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| European posters and repurposed furnishings allow this vintage modern space to sing. Painted brick paired with warm toned storage pieces and colorful wall dressing invites guests to sit and relax. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Add a extra storage space by choosing an open shelving approach in the kitchen. Use the shelving to display your favorite collected monochromatic dinnerware pieces. |
| Scatter found mirrors on a chocolaty wall to dress up a dining area.
Tip: Pick varying sizes and frame finishes to create texture. A collection of new mirrors will not create the same impact. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| White walls and bookcases provide a gallery-like backdrop for these heirlooms. The wood table and leather chairs anchor the space and give the room a cozy feel. The organization of the space and simple palette give this room a vintage modern feel.
Tip: Don't be afraid to hang signature artwork pieces right on the face of a bookcase. It breaks up a sea of books and creates interest while featuring your favorite pieces. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| A scattered gallery featuring collected works and artwork gives interest to this den space. For a more eclectic look, let the artwork trail off to the right and left. |
by Busybee Design
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
This bold combination works due to the older chair's punchy color and the collected side table's organic feel. Items can be mixed from any era as long as pieces aren't competing to be the showstopper.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Mixing modern lighting and chairs with a reclaimed wood table adds a certain balance to this room. A beamed ceiling and backdrop of distressed wood wraps the table and chairs in a comfortable vintage modern setting.
Tip: Displaying your wares doesn't always mean knick-knacks. You can also you display your other furniture and accessories, such as lighting. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| A clawfoot tub realizes a modern update when painted in warm yellow. This touch of whimsy creates a space that would be appreciated by any guest. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Mixing and matching elements within the same color palette allows for extra versatility in a vintage modern space. Keep the color the same, but use varying hues to unite a mixture of old and new.
|
by Ninainvorm
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Framed found pieces or childrens artwork to create an interesting display.
Tip: Take the backs and glass out of frames and use only the wooden element to show off your favorite finds, too. |
Comments
Erika Ward - Erika Ward Interiors Loving all of your ideas! The first image alone helped me to figure out what's missing in my kitchen. Thanks!
2 years ago · Like
twinmommy I love the 3rd image because it resolves a "discussion" my husband and I were having about whether a stove needs cabinetry on both sides. Of course it's ideal to have a place to put cooking items, but when space is limited, it's nice to see that it still look great without an end-piece. Thanks!
2 years ago · Like
Robyn Hollas Love the post! This has a lot of inspiration for me.
2 years ago · Like
Pedini Kitchens Here is my contribution to the "something old (workbench and cabinet on the counter - 100 yrs.+), something new (range, hood, cabinets), something borrowed (recycled wood top) and something... green (blue just didn't work in here...) 
2 years ago · Like
Kerrie L. Kelly Thank you, pediniusa! Amazing design!
2 years ago · Like
designchallenged Enjoyed these. The rooms are inviting.
2 years ago · Like
Mary Little I love this style......flea market, garage sale, thrifts store finds all added to beautify our decor in unique and unusual ways. I also love found object art! Always searching for more unique items. Even walks on the beach can lead to unique finds!
2 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Dec. 26, 2010.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
