The world of interior styling often talks in black and white. Either you’re a sleek, modern minimalist with bold contrasts and stripped back styling, or you’re a classical maximalist with character features and decor additions galore. If guides for either of these interior choices are anything to go by, then the two styles should never, and could never, meet.
But what happens if you quite like the idea of bringing stylish clutter into your new build? Or perhaps you want to turn your traditional home into a modern property? Is this a styling pipedream, or can you actually pull off a switch like this?
To be honest, the answer ultimately depends on your approach. But, done right, time-travelling interiors can absolutely work. Keep reading to find out how.
# 1 - Upgrade Classic Features
Upgrading classic features with a contemporary twist is a fantastic option for modernising an old home.
One of the most obvious options here is to replace an old cast-iron radiator with a modern column radiator that looks traditional, but is also available in cutting-edge sleek colours like satin or matte black. Equally, you could paint original crown moulding in bright or dark tones, or even just change the hardware on any built-in cabinets to incorporate new and old directly alongside each other.
# 2 - Lean into Contrast
The design world tends to avoid contrast, but this technique can be a lot of fun (and can look great) if you’re willing to take a few style risks. You’ll simply need to forget everything you’ve read, lean into experimentation, and realise that the most unexpected items from different time periods can actually contrast in surprising harmony.
Mixing and matching furniture across the decades can add particular interest if you take the time to get this focus right. Admittedly, while a complete mishmash might work for a funky finish, you might want to approach with balance in mind. For example, pairing classic cabinets with modern furniture can work well, as can adding modern additions like armchairs or neutral throws within an otherwise traditional space. Just take the time to find the right balance for your home, which experts recommend should be somewhere around the 80/20 mark.
# 3 - Unify with Colour
There’s nothing wrong with mixing styles, but your time-travelling interiors could look a little lost if you don’t focus on a unifying feature between the ages. Colour is a great option here, as it provides a strong anchor that should ideally work with both styles.
If you want to avoid any kind of chaotic styling, then neutral colours can be a great bridge, providing a calming undertone to even your most mismatched choices. Alternatively, you might go all out with bright colours that work across the ages, such as rich greens or rusty reds.
There’s really no reason why you need to stick with one century when styling your home. Simply keep these pointers in mind to pull off an interior look that’s equal parts old and new.
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