Whether you’ve a keen eye for exquisite antiques or favour a more contemporary interior, there’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to blending styles and eras in the home.
While mixing the old with the new might seem daunting, embracing contrasting styles will add character to any room and is a great way to showcase your tastes and personality. A reliable antiques specialist can help you find your way, but if you’re unsure where to start, here are a few useful tips on how to integrate antiques into your modern interior.
Use artwork to your advantage
Setting a signature antique piece against a contemporary backdrop can give your home the wow factor. If you’re a fan of antique artwork, a 17th or 18th century oil painting set against clashing prints or a modern minimalist decor will really stand out.
Alternatively if you tend to prefer modern art, don’t be afraid to contrast it with a piece of antique furniture, such as a 19th century Louis XVI desk or a rococo style console table. The juxtaposing characteristics will stand out against one another and will be the perfect blend of the old and the new.
Invest in antique mirrors
If your home is decked out with modern fireplaces and bold colours, investing in an antique mirror will not only create the illusion of a bigger room and enhance natural light, but it will also provide a striking focal point. If your modern interior boasts a boldly painted accent wall, layering over an antique giltwood Victorian or rococo style mirror will really bring the room to life.
Reupholster antique chairs
Seamlessly integrate antiques into your home by reupholstering antique chairs with a more contemporary fabric. Injecting new life into your antique chairs with modern prints or patterns will ensure they are captivating as well as practical. You can retain all the charm of a Victorian or Regency armchair whilst updating it with a lively bold print, ensuring it won’t look out of place in a modern interior.
Alternatively, embrace the glamour that exudes from certain antique fabrics, such as velvet. Find an antique chair that speaks for itself, embrace its character and let it do the talking by setting it next to a modern coffee or side table.
Lighting
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While you may require a practical and contemporary dining room, create a provocative atmosphere by illuminating the room with antique lighting. A Regency style crystal chandelier hanging in an otherwise contemporary space or over an urban dining table and bench will create an appealing ambience for your dinner parties. Antique lighting is a subtle way to integrate the old with the new, but the contrast of antique fixtures set against a modern decor will nevertheless transform your room.
If you tend to favour modern lighting fixtures, you can still utilise these whilst injecting some history into your home. Try placing a contemporary table lamp on an art deco dresser or a 19th century console table.
Mix antique pieces with bold colours
Enhance the warmth and grandeur of antique furniture by setting it against bold colours. The timeless charm of an antique oak or mahogany grandfather clock will look striking when placed next to a bright and invigorating colour palette. If you’re adventurous with colours, fabrics and textures, choose a timeless piece of antique furniture to finish off the room.
Showcase your personality
In summary, there are many ways in which you can integrate antiques into a modern interior. It’s worth taking your time and finding a piece that really reflects your personality and the heart of your home, so don’t rush when it comes to shopping. An attention grabbing antique may be the finishing touch you need.
