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.
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.
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.
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.
Tip: Pick varying sizes and frame finishes to create texture. A collection of new mirrors will not create the same impact.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tip: Displaying your wares doesn't always mean knick-knacks. You can also you display your other furniture and accessories, such as lighting.
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.
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.
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.
Tip: Take the backs and glass out of frames and use only the wooden element to show off your favorite finds, too.