Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-plants-on-the-table-1005058/
If 21st century architecture could be summed up in a short phrase it would probably be “out with the old, in with the new.” However, there are some unique personalities that love to combine the old and the new, with their appreciation for both the classical touch and the modern style.
A fusion of classical and modern styles within a home adds a whole lot of personality and character. They ensure that the home has that unique touch of history infused within its walls. In short, it reflects a part of your personality.
Of course, no one wants to live in a home that is impractical. You want to stay classy yet still encapsulate some of that modern architecture that allows you to grow with the times. Here’s how you can mix modern and classical styles in home decór (and get away with it)!
- Begin By Setting the Ambiance
What is the feeling you are going for? Have you decided on a color palette yet? You might want to combine two vastly different themes, but what is one overarching look you want to achieve? Is it fresh, rustic, relaxed, or unorthodox?
Start by browsing through Pinterest and create a couple of boards with your inspirations. Let the creative juices start to flow. You are eventually going to gravitate to a general color palette. This is what will allow you to decide your furniture, accents, and interesting elements you can add to the house later.
If all of this seems to overwhelm you and you just don’t know where to look for options try searching for expert Germantown painters who can help you get started!
- Choose the Show Stopper
You must create a “center of the attention,” preferably within your living room. This could be a floor length window or a warm fireplace with a brick wall. Anything that acts as a huge backdrop against which you could build the aura of the rest of the house.
Windows with a great view, preferably of nature, or a fireplace, or even textured wall finishes give your home a classy look. You can definitely play around with that backdrop and add a few contemporary art pieces to add a modern touch.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Atmosphere
Sure, classy and modern go well together. However, that’s only true when it’s done right. You can mix vintage and modern accents but you want to make sure they go well together as well as with the room as a whole.
A great way to achieve this is by using a vintage piece of furniture in a modern way. Find a Victorian settee and try pairing it with a sleek glass or marble coffee table. You could even find vintage dining chairs and bring together different eras (such as the bentwood, Eames, and traditional ladder-back) for an eclectic dining set-up.
Some ideas for accent pieces include a retro credenza that can be used under a wall-mounted TV for stylish storage. If you can find items like an Ornate gilt mirror, a vintage sewing table, wooden furniture, or oriental rugs, you could place them around the house to add tiny classical details within an overall modern design.
- Texturing and Layering
One way to achieve a fusion is through texturing and layering, which is truly an art. This could be done by starting off with a blank slate in the form of soft neutrals for the walls or large surfaces. These could be warm whites, taupe, light grey, or cream. Try pairing that up with hardwood flooring (dark-stained or light oak) which sets the classical mood but can also adapt to modern furnishing.
Slowly start adding pieces that take the look one step further. Couple a modern sofa with classical pillows (embroidered or fringed) or a minimalist coffee table standing atop a persian rug.
- Stay True to Yourself
Only you know what your ideal home should look like. Set a desired split. Consider whether you want the classical style to overwhelm the modern or the other way around. This can help you find the perfect balance.
You could also come up with your own creative way to incorporate both of these styles to your home. For example, you could choose parts of the house that are dedicated entirely to one specific style. Perhaps you want the exterior to look like something that popped right out of a Victorian novel. The world is your oyster!
Consider roofing for instance. Opting for modern composite slate roofs allow you to maintain the classy appearance of slate while avoiding the cost that comes with utilizing the pure slate material. You could also go for a clay tile look which is reminiscent of mediterranean/classical styles.
If you are wondering how you can add a classical touch to your roof without compromising on its efficiency consider reaching out to expert residential roofers. They can give you an estimate as well as the best advice on what fits your dream home.
Pro Tip: Pick an Element and Let it Lead
Whether it is a texture, a color, a material, or an accent that has caught your eye, allow it to be the voice of your design. Everything else should play a supporting role instead of dominating the scene.
When you let too many dominating features come together it may overwhelm the design and make it look scattered and chaotic. If you want to go for elegance, lean towards minimalism.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that differing styles, when matched together, only go well if the contrast is excellent. Try to orchestrate a clash between old vs. new, light vs. dark, or rough vs. smooth. If there is nothing tying both the pieces together, it might make it look a bit forced.
Alternatively, you could pick one singular element that unifies the pieces together. For example, you can rely on a singular color palette, repeating material (wood, brass, stone) or a recurring shape. This makes the contrasts look a lot more intentional.
Time to Decide!
So, what’s it going to be? Are you going to choose between the modern and the classical? Or is it going to be a mix of the two? Whatever you choose, make sure you keep it minimal and involve a professional who can give you the best advice!