How to Achieve the Modern Vintage Living Look
Modern Vintage Living is what we're highlighting today. This style feels modern, yet has some vintage (or vintage-looking) architecture and decorative pieces without it feeling like a dusty antique store or your great-grandmother's style. This style feels expensive too because of the rich fabrics and finishes. If you've ever watched Windy City Rehab on HGTV, you’ll see that Alison Victoria is an expert in this design style.
Modern Vintage is one of my favorite design styles. Let’s face it. I like a lot of styles, but I truly love this one. A rainy day like today inspired me to “cozy up” with my computer and share some inspirational photos with you.
photo: Remodelaholic
The Details
Some would call it traditional, maybe... but with the modern twist. The Vintage Modern Living style usually includes fabrics that are rich in color or texture but have little or no pattern. The details are more about stitching, tufting, nail-head trim, unique legs, and such. The “ooohhh” and “aaahhh” personality punches come through the lighting fixtures, pillows, artwork, tabletop accessory pieces, and of course the architecture.
Focal Points
Think about creating focal points by using arched bookcases, decorative mirrors, or even moodier colors on walls or casings.
Create the Modern Vintage Vibe
While we may not live in these older homes with grand moldings, high ceilings, amazing built-ins, antique doors, and door casings, we can still curate things for our rooms that somewhat have the this overall feel. Think about creating focal points by using arched bookcases, decorative mirrors, or even by painting particular areas a darker, moodier color such as charcoal, navy, rich purple, or even dark green. Hire a handyman or carpenter to install some picture frame molding for you, or better yet do it yourself. There are some great videos on YouTube such as this one.
Photo: Zillow
Mixing woods
Are you afraid to mix wood tones? The key is to make sure that they contrast enough so that they feel intentional. See how the floors relate to these awesome doors, but the coffee table is a completely different stain. The modern vintage look often has brass / gold included in the lighting, side tables, trays, etc. These images may inspire a Modern Vintage Living look in your home, and if you'd like some resources for where you can actually shop for similar items I've created a collection just for you. If you can't wait to see them, go ahead and scroll to the bottom
Lighting is Everything
Statement sconces, pendants, lamps, and chandeliers give a glam + modern + vintage look if done well.
This kitchen has quiet countertops, open shelving, backsplash, and hood. The light fixtures steal the show and are the amazing “jewelry” in the room.
Typically most of these Modern Vintage Living products that I've collected are unavailable to the general public, but since you've come this far, I have invited you to see and shop the collection from Clover Lane Design Home. See Shop Collections from the menu.
