The most intriguing rooms are often peppered with juxtaposing elements from diverse time periods and places. A curated medley of art, furniture, and other conversation pieces that fall together in harmony. Is it really that effortless though? Here’s a few tips to elevate your space with a unique blend of unique old and new furniture. 

STYLE – Identify your preference for particular styles of furniture made in various eras. Try to stick with one predominant style, layering in supporting accents of another. 

Modern silhouettes from the Art Deco period can contrast nicely with handsome antique furnishings, as does the streamlined style and neutral palettes of Scandinavian design. Mid-century modern presents as understated and sleek, yet minimal. If you favor harmonious and matching elegance, Traditional décor, influenced by 18th and 19th century European designs, may appeal to you. Note that antiques are made 100 years ago or more; vintage is generally from past generations or between 20-99 years old.

SCALE + PROPORTION – Always consider scale and proportion in your scheme. Opposites attract. Heavier furniture will ground the space, while lighter pieces or accents strike a balance and allow for optimal flow. How does one object relate to the other in terms texture, shape, size and color? Dark woods offer a rich contrast to soft Scandinavian lines and color. Plush fabrics pair with a light, natural fabrics like linen. 

REPETITION – As with proportion, attention to subtle, yet repetitive details build a relationship between objects and overall feel to the space. Unify elements through pattern, shape, color, and naturals materials, such a wood and metal.

INTEREST – Evocative design is often born from unexpected unions – an antique buffet or console paired with modern LED sconces, for example. Objects found while traveling, inherited, or borrowed from nature can also invite interest. 

ENJOY THE PROCESS – Buy things you LOVE that can be relocated. These are the versatile objects that will stay with you through the years. And take your time! It doesn’t have to be perfect to be well designed and inviting. If you feel overwhelmed with the process, start by carving out a nook or corner vignette – mixing a contemporary or modern chair with a vintage table is all it takes.  

Now that you have the secret sauce of blending furniture from different time periods, here’s the most spectacular reason why to mix it up: approximately nine million tons of furniture go to the landfill every year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The rise in popularity for cheaply-made and flatpack furniture hasn’t helped. Investing in a new couch or chair made locally (or in the U.S., to reduce the carbon footprint on shipping) and adding vintage or antique pieces to compliment your selection is the win-win design for a beautifully decorated space AND the environment.