It’s been a little while since I’ve written a blog post so I figured there’s no time like the present to do a little spring cleaning and dust off the ol’ blog. Thanks to my good friend Lindsey, we will be bringing you Design Tip Tuesday, to give you a little decor inspiration each week. This week’s topic is mixing old and new decor.
Have you ever found yourself asking “What would Meredith do?” Well I’m here to tell you just that.
I don't play by the rules when it comes to designing spaces. I tend to make up my own rules. I love old things but I also like new ones too. For our March shop design, I’ve got a good mix of old and new. I also believe in designing what feels good to you.
In this particular photo, we have some new furniture mixed with some vintage accessories. Cozy blankets on the chairs add texture to the space. A small pillow with stripes gives the space a small pop of color. These are the cozy feel good things. Now, to add to the story, I added in the vintage pieces. Mixing old and new adds balance. Instead of using one larger end table, I’ve combined three small vintage tables that almost act as nesting tables. I like the different shape and style of each of these tables.
If you know me, you know I LOVE OLD BOOKS!! Old books are one component that is a constant in all of my designs. In this case, we took some books that had seen better days and repurposed them into a book garland.
I love the book garland because it adds dimension to the mantel plus it’s a conversation piece. You don’t see these everyday and you can’t buy it at any of the big box stores.
In addition to the book garland, I’ve got one of my all time favorite pieces on one of the small tables. An old book without its cover, wrapped in twine.
This book dates back to 1856, a true antique! What I love about it is how simple and elegant it is. I admire the writing and wish that my own handwriting was as beautiful as this.
Last but not least, I added in some faux greenery (because let’s be honest, keeping real plants alive is not my strong suit). Since Mother Nature refuses to cooperate, I’m bringing the spring feel inside. We also have some vintage style chocolate bunny molds on the mantel too.
All in all this space is cozy with a nice blend of old and new.
When you mix old and new, you keep the room fresh. It adds contrast and depth which ultimately gives the space balance. AKA: The space feels good!
Tips for Mixing Old and New:
•The number one rule is always be true to your own style. If you like mixing polka dots and stripes, you go for it. Be authentic to your style.
•Use what you have at home and then add what you need. If you are working with an older piece of furniture at home, add a few new decorative accessories to freshen it up and give it a new look.
•If you have new pieces in your home but you want to add some vintage charm, add in vintage decor. I personally love salvage pieces like corbels, old windows, doors or columns. As I mentioned earlier, vintage books are always a winner in home decor.
•Get creative: Vintage pieces are really fun to use and especially fun to get creative with. You don’t always have to use the item for it’s intended purpose either. For example, use an old chicken feeder as a table centerpiece. You’ll get kudos for being creative and you will have a fun centerpiece.
Mixing old and new in your home can add a lot of personality. What vintage or new items do you want to add to your home? Join us March 15th-18th at Eddy Street Vintage Market to find some one-of-a-kind pieces.
Ready, set, decorate!
Happy Styling!
Meredith
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