How to Blend Vintage Pieces Into Your Space

July 29, 2024

Photo: Vintage Pieces at **The Wilmette Residence**

Many of you might be hitting the road for some well-deserved vacations at this point. While you're out and about, it's hard not to indulge in those unique, one-of-a-kind vintage pieces you stumble upon. And why shouldn't you?! They can add a rich layer of character and history to your home. But how do you incorporate these treasures without making your space look cluttered or disjointed? Here are some design tips to help you seamlessly blend vintage and antique pieces into your modern decor, illustrated by projects we've had the privilege of working on.

Design Tips for Incorporating Antiques

Choose High Quality

Unlike many of today's mass-produced items, vintage and antique pieces were often made with superior materials and craftsmanship. Think real marble, solid wood, and durable metals—materials that can stand the test of time. When choosing a vintage piece, go for the good stuff that has lasted and will last a long time. When you bring these pieces into your home, you're not just adding decor; you're adding history, quality, and a story.

Start Small

If you're new to incorporating antiques, start with small pieces. A vintage mirror, an antique lamp, or a unique side table can make a big impact without overwhelming your space. These items can serve as focal points, adding depth to your decor.

Photo: Figurines on bedside tables at **The Ravenswood Residence**

Mix and Match

Blend the old with the new. Pair a vintage dining table with modern chairs, or place a vintage rug in a contemporary living room. The key is to create balance and contrast. This mix-and-match approach prevents your space from feeling like it's stuck in a time capsule.

Photo: Vintage Balinese screen paired with modern dining set at **The Lake Forest Family Residence**

Create a Focal Point

Choose one or two antique pieces to be the focal points of a room. This could be an ornate chandelier in the dining room or a grand armoire in the bedroom. By giving these pieces prominence, you highlight their uniqueness without cluttering the space.

Photo: Beautiful antique kimono featured at the head of the dining table at **The Ravenswood Residence**

Use Antiques Functionally

Incorporate antiques in functional ways. An old trunk can serve as a coffee table with storage, or a vintage dresser can become a chic bathroom vanity. Functional antiques add character while serving a purpose, making them practical additions to your home.

Photo: Vintage spotlight at **The Wilmette Residence**

Combine Styles

Don't be afraid to mix different styles and eras. Combining mid-century modern furniture with Victorian pieces can create a dynamic and interesting space. The key is to maintain a cohesive color palette or theme to tie everything together.

Photo: Combining traditional style with Buddhist treasures using metallic accents to tie the room together at **The Lincoln Park Single Family Home**

Layer Textures and Materials

Antiques often bring a variety of textures and materials that can enrich your decor. Use these elements to create layers in your space. For example, a wooden antique table can be paired with a soft, modern rug and sleek metal chairs to create visual interest.

Photo: Layered soft and rough textures at **The Lemonade Stand**

Respect the Patina

Part of the charm of antiques is their aged appearance. Embrace the patina and imperfections that come with time. These features tell a story and add authenticity to your decor.

Photo: Elegant gong with patina at **The Lincoln Park Single Family Home**

Showcase Collections

By arranging similar items together, you create a focal point that draws the eye, telling a cohesive story. This method allows individual pieces to complement each other, highlighting their unique features while contributing to a unified theme. Additionally, grouped collections can prevent a space from feeling cluttered or haphazard by establishing clear visual order and harmony.

Photo: Antique Doorknob Collection at the **Hollywood Regency Residence**

Keep It Personal

Your home should reflect your personality and experiences. Use antiques that have personal significance or that you've collected during travels. This not only adds character to your space but also creates a unique environment that tells your story.

Photo: Antique porcelain collected on travels at **The Wilmette Residence**

Some Tips on Antiquing:

Auctions: A Hidden Gem

One of my favorite secrets is using auction sites like AuctionZip.net. You can set up a profile, enter your zip code, and find auctions near you. Whether it's real estate, municipal auctions, or furniture sales, these events can be a goldmine for unique pieces. Plus, many auctions provide pictures beforehand, so you know exactly what you're bidding on. If you prefer to see items in person, antique malls like the Lincoln Antique Mall in Chicago offer a curated selection of items that go beyond the usual dusty relics.

Midwest Antiquing Spots

Being Chicago-based, I have antiqued my way across the Midwest! Indiana's antique shops, like the ones found in the historic train depots, offer a nostalgic journey through time. In Iowa, the variety of antique shows and shops provides endless opportunities to find unique items. Minnesota and Wisconsin also boast fantastic spots, particularly Wisconsin's Elkhorn Antique Flea Market, where vendors set up expansive tents filled with intriguing finds. Another favorite is the Nashville Flea Market, which, although not in the Midwest, is a must-visit for any antique enthusiast traveling in the area.

Adding antique and vintage pieces to your home is a wonderful way to infuse character, history, and quality into your space. By starting small, mixing styles, creating focal points, using antiques functionally, respecting their patina, combining different styles, layering textures, and keeping it personal, you can achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing decor. So, the next time you're on a summer trip, don't hesitate to do a little antiquing. Your home—and its story—will be all the richer for it.