How To Balance Old and New Within The Home

Sometimes it can be difficult to choose between classic and traditional interior designs and bold and unique contemporary styles that can often seem like they sit on polar opposites of the style spectrum. However this season has seen the ‘old and new’ trend weave its way into the home with a blend and balance of modern and period style looks that sit comfortably side by side for a rich and diverse appearance.

Here are some ideas on how to combine these two distinct looks for a stylish and elegant home interior that gives an interior ambiance that features all the best designs from a range of times and trends:

When creating the perfect dining space within your home why not create a mix and match of old and new designs that contrast yet complement each other to create a stylish and eye-catching finish. If you love the classic dining room interiors of the Georgian and Edwardian period then select typical period decor, cornices and ceiling roses and add a circular dining table with a heavily carved base in either a rich black painted or highly polished wood finish that will table centre stage within the room. Team this historic look with a selection of modern Perspex chairs in crisp white or colourful and curvaceous plastic and chrome designs that will compliment the fluted Georgian designs while adding a contemporary twist to the finished design.

If you prefer a more cosy and welcoming country cottage or farmhouse kitchen diner then you can add a more sleek and sophisticated twist with the addition of a modern bar stools or clear plastic chairs that will create a sense of invisibility and light within your kitchen area. Select typical rural designs such as thick and heavy wood tables and work tops with classic earthen colour tones or shabby chic palettes. Choose shimmering chrome finished bar stools with a rich cream leather seat pad or scatter your clear plastic chairs around a reclaimed oak dining table for a perfect marriage of masculine ruggedness and illuminating on trend style.

If your wish to add a dash of modernity to an otherwise traditional living room area than what better way than to replace your current coffee table with an artistic and modern design that will become a social focal point within the home. Creating a balance of traditional comfort and fresh and innovative style is a key element in embracing the ‘old and new’’ trend and with a balance of fabric and furnishings this can be achieved in a simple and cost effective manner. Period style sofas and rugs can be updated with a sleek and shimmering clear glass coffee table which gives a unique and stylish appearance but does not overly distract from the classic design features of the surrounding decor. Select simple cube shaped designs or more artistic sculptural shapes with chrome accents that will provide an eye-catching yet functional area within your living room interior.

Lighting is a great way of updating your current home interior and with such a fabulous range of styles and shapes from historic chandeliers to innovative contemporary designs it is easy to combine and contrast your styles to create a visual diversity within your chosen room. A statement light fitting will look particularly fabulous in a bedroom, living room or hallway area and provides a form of artistic design that will create a balance of style and functionality. Classic panelled walls, dado rails and classic wooden floor create a traditional period style backdrop that can be uplifted with a modern chrome, sculptural ceiling light that stands out against the more natural colours and finishes. Alternatively add a hint of classic beauty and elegance to a minimal home interior with a grand French or Italian chandelier or an on trend antler style design for a balance of rustic and metropolitan design.

To add the finishing touch to your home interior choose a selection of accessories that contrast with the age of your decor but work alongside it to create a balance of style and colour. A modern glass sideboard or dresser can be adorned with classic vintage and period crockery and ornaments to give a visual diversity of colour and pattern that works equally well in minimal and shabby chic homes. Update a period style interior with a strategically placed piece of abstract wall art that will create a visual contrast above a classic bed frame or ornate fireplace. We love this unique and fun I pod docking station that has been disguised as an old school gramophone and gives a sophisticated and elegant finish to a classic living room area.

For more ideas on balancing old and new fabrics, furnishings and accessories within your home, take a look at our latest Pinterest board - Pinterest - Old and New Interiors