Wondering how to decorate with antique furniture? The secret is utilizing contrast. Matchy-matchy décor can feel boring but embracing different styles will give your home texture and depth. This decor technique is called layering and can be accomplished by mixing the period, shape, color and form of your pieces. Harmoniously arranging antiques with modern items makes a room feel fresh and exciting. Want some ideas for how to incorporate contrast into your home? Here’s our top tips for how to decorate with antiques.
When you are decorating with antiques, it’s very impactful to balance color, shape, textures and styles. For example, bright colors juxtaposed with pieces from historic periods can add an element of surprise.
Source: Elle Decor
Grouping antique accessories together will create a focal point in the room. Antique vitrines and hutches are great for showing off your favorite collection.
Source: Country Living
Create contrast by pairing antique items with modern pieces. A traditional desk like this is a beautiful investment piece. Pair it with a modern chair for a dynamic combination.
Image: Stadshem
Similarly, a modern table with antique chairs stands out and creates character. Or go the other way and place modern chairs around a farmhouse table.
Image: decorapatio
When decorating with antique furniture, contrast is intriguing. Unexpected pairings create an exciting dialogue. This concept works with antique artwork and paintings as well. Add one or several paintings above a contemporary sofa. By contrast, the clean and structured sofa will make the artwork pop.
Image: Architectural Digest
Or you could hang a modern piece of art to contrast with your antique furniture piece. This modern painting harmoniously enhances this sophisticated 19th Century Louis XVI style desk.
Image: Harpers Bazaar
Contrast means embracing the unexpected. An antique dresser can also look great outside of the bedroom. Rework it as a TV console or as a focal spot for art in your living room.
Image: Domino
Glamor never goes out of fashion. French antiques, gilt mirrors, and other timeless pieces can give your home a rich look historically enjoyed by aristocrats. Group a collection of antique mirrors to create a dramatic and gorgeous wall display.
Image: The Spruce
Decorating with antiques takes time. Don’t feel rushed to buy everything at once. Rather, wait until you find pieces that you absolutely adore and let your look evolve with time.
Want to learn more? Check out our top 5 tips for how to care for your antique furniture.
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