Mixing Old & New: Styling Vintage with Modern Pieces
This is a style I love, the idea of mixing peices of furniture that have history and stories to tell with some refreshed peices brings me such joy! We were sold for a good ten years that our homes needed to be minimal, white, and new. Comersimerism at its absolute finest. those beautiful sideboards were seens as dated and disgusting, and the patterned carpet was foul. But you see if you use some of the strategies I highlight below there is a way to find the beauty in most things - even that carpet!
This mixing of old and new has always come easily to me, whether it be in a home or in an outfit. I could see past the idea that something was old or outdated and rather inspect the peice for the design elements it had and how these could be incorporated into whatever I was making. I understand that for lots of people this doesnt come easily however I want to challenge people to stop jumping on trends and falling for this idea that something is dated or out of fashion because the reality is that, these are just ideas that are perpetuated to make you purchase new things.
So you want too (or you potentially have to) mix some vintage pieces with some new pieces, Here are some keys considerations to make to ensure you create a well thought out, considered space.
1. Balance is Key
To ensure it doesn’t feel like any one style has just been misplaced, balance is absolutely vital. My suggestion is about a 40:60 ratio of either style. DEpending on whether you want more vintage to new, or new to vintage your ratio could go either way.
Avoid overwhelming a space with too much of one style. Pair a single vintage statement piece (like an armchair or sideboard) with clean-lined modern furniture to create harmony.
Its in the Decor! Dont just think about the balance being in furniutre it needs to be considered in art, soft furnishing, ornaments and even lighting. Its when these elements also contribute to the 40:60 ratio you will find the balance.
2. Find a Common Thread
Use colour, material, or texture to tie pieces together. This is the easiest way to create a complimentary scheme, but ensure you are not just saturating your rooms full of one colur, texture or pattern. Its about small nuanced consideratons of your choosen design element.
3. Layer Textures and Patterns
Mixing fabrics and finishes (velvet, linen, brass, timber) adds depth and interest. Vintage rugs or cushions can soften modern minimalism, making the space feel inviting. This layering concept helps tie the components together, so don’t be scared to lean into that, there’s not really anything to minimal about this style so decor is a must.
4. Highlight Statement Pieces
Let vintage pieces shine by giving them space to breathe. Modern surroundings can act as a neutral backdrop that elevates the character of older items.
5. Blend Styles Gradually
If you’re starting from scratch don’t expect to have a completed space instantly. Start with small accessories if you don’t have an existing furniture —lighting, mirrors, art—before moving on. This creates a seamless integration of old and new without clashing. If you already have furniture you will be incorporating, then find your key peices and build from there. Surprisingly these types of spaces take longer to plan out and to source than the new more “minimal” spaces, however the eveolution of them is priceless.
Below are some examples of spaces that I feel like capture this look perfectly. I have labelled them to highlight why they work!
The other exciting part of mixing old and new is that often you have to break some rules in order for the spaces to work. Play with layout, play with scale, put furniture in places that you might not expect! There is an element of this style that has to be playful in order for it all to come together.
If you love this style but you’re still finding it difficult to pull it together, check out my Home Refresh Package. We can meet and discuss how your home can bring this style to life.
xx.
