Both traditional and modern décor styles and features have much to recommend them, so why should you have to choose between the two. Homes decorated in an eclectic blend of old and new can have a great deal of charm, mixing tradition and modernity in a single space, to produce distinctive and compelling styles. There are even examples of this type of décor that have earned a separate label, such as the popular rustic modern style. But one of the benefits of combining the old with the new is that it gives you a lot of freedom to find your preferred balance.
So, whether you have a home that is decorated traditionally but you prefer modern furniture, or you want to build on the transitional nature of your existing décor, here are a few tips to help you balance the two approaches and create an original blend.
Keep balance in mind
This type of eclectic design is not about throwing pieces together and assuming that the whole thing will come together. When you’re trying to blend two different styles, you must constantly check that the balance between the two is being maintained throughout the room in question, so that one style doesn’t start to dominate the other. For instance, if you introduce some old-fashioned furniture, keep the wall and floor décor clean and modern. It’s all about maintaining a balance.
Look for updated furniture
One way to combine the old and the new is to look for updated furniture. Some modern furniture pieces are based on traditional designs, and these are the items that can really help to bring the two styles together, as they have a foot in both eras. One particularly good example is the modern coffered ceiling. Coffered ceilings have been part of home decor for centuries, but the updated style combines modernity with old-fashioned charm and helps to set the tone for the room.
Color and texture
Another advantage of transitional décor is that it can take the edge off what can sometimes be the harshness of modern design, making it more human and comfortable. That can be done by introducing older textures and colors into a modern area. For example, you can replace modern stainless-steel fittings with bronze, or add tactile items such as deep rugs or throw pillows. Another idea to soften contemporary designs is to use a warm, rich color to paint the walls. The results will still be modern but more approachable and welcoming.
Favor character
The great benefit of older design styles is that they tend to have more character than contemporary alternatives and introducing them can quickly add depth and character to your home. Wooden wall panels are one way to go, and reclaimed wood is a particularly good material to employ in a transitional style, as it is both old and modern. You could introduce reclaimed wooden panels to your walls, and then add in a few modern furnishing touches, to create an interesting blended design that will be both contemporary and full of old-fashioned character and depth.
Go modern for function
The big drawback of traditional designs and furnishings is that they tend to be less practical and are certainly not adapted to the conveniences of modern life. So, when it comes to functional items such as lighting and storage, it is best to stick to contemporary designs, which will allow you to enjoy the benefits of traditional décor without the impracticalities and inconvenience. One useful rule of thumb is to focus on making decorative areas of the room traditional and the functional sections more modern.
Preserve your new decor
Hopefully these ideas will help you to strike the right balance between modern and traditional in your home and create something truly individual and unique, but make sure you don’t overlook checking outhome warranty cost. After all, if you’ve created a beautiful new look, you want to be sure that it is protected, so when the décor is finished, find out what a warranty would cost for your home.
Conclusion
The most exciting part about this kind of décor is that it can evolve over time. You can add old and modern pieces of furniture or décor as time goes by, maintaining the blend, but ensuring that it never becomes stale, to create a home that is as unique as you and your family.