[title subtitle=”words & images: Lee Anne Henry, Whiteline Designs”][/title]
As a designer, my job is to listen to my clients. If I’ve learned anything on this earth, it’s that there’s one constant in life–and that’s change. It happens in my own life, and it
happens to furniture and décor styles as well.
Has your life changed? Are you becoming an empty nester, downsizing, or building a new home? Are you getting married or perhaps newly single? Some of you are getting
re-married and wrestling with how to integrate all your furniture.
I’m happy to give you some elegant and smart tips to combine furniture styles, such as how to go about mixing traditional and modern. Some call this a “transitional” furniture style. Here are five tips that will make you love your transitional-type furnishings:
Create a Contrast
Pairing your traditional entry table with a modern clear acrylic lamp and modern mirror can tie all three pieces together and make the space feel lived-in and comfortable.
Use Natural Area Rugs
A texture-rich, neutral-colored rug made from native grasses such as sisal can harmonize traditional elements with more modern pieces. Picking a neutral warm-toned color will help you achieve the well-blended mix. The flooring does not need to be the focal point in a room, but the deep texture of these easy-to-clean rugs will update any room.
Update Your Traditional Furniture
For those furniture pieces that you’re struggling with, like an antique chair or bench, consider reupholstering it using a modern fabric with a bright, cheery color. Doing this will create a visual focal point. That chair will take on a new life and become a statement piece that you will enjoy for years to come.
Paint Those Ugly Pieces
Consider painting the furniture that you have doubts about. Instead of getting rid of that scratched and damaged end table, try painting it in a neutral color or white instead. Spruce it up with some new hardware to make it a treasure.
Mix It Up With Lighting
Lighting is also a great way to mix styles. A very modern chandelier hanging over your grandmother’s rustic dining table will not only look beautiful, but will give you a great feeling every time you walk into the room.
There you have it. Five ways to mix and mingle. And remember, have fun! Change is nothing to be afraid of–it’s leading you to a new beginning.
