The Vintage Modern design aesthetic is swiftly becoming one of the most sought-after home design inspiration, following the same lines of grandmillenial, coastal grandmother, Nancy Meyers, and other similar styles. I think at its core, its a desire to return to a bygone era, but updated to include modern comforts. All the aformentioned styles are about going to back to a comfortable style, replicating that with which we grew up with, saw in movies, created memories with loved ones in… Vintage Modern is about taking that nostalgia and giving it a grown-up spin to reflect the a more contemporary, forward-facing edge. For me, a big difference between “Grandmillenial” and “Vintage Modern” is the latter’s exclusion of anything that is too fussy. Lace, calico prints, pockmarked wood side tables are all very cute at our grandma’s homes, but I want to be able to invite my friends over for cocktails. Vintage is also incorporated by echoing vintage shapes and silhouettes, instead of being too literal by only furnishing with secondhand pieces.
To achieve that Vintage Modern Aesthetic, I favor artisan handicraft pieces. They handmade quality gives a timeworn feel, and since artisan pieces usually follow a traditional or historical process, its the best for adding a timeless aesthetic. Modern furnishings that echo more vintage silhouettes, like this gorgeous arched lamp from Westwing, keep the space looking light and bright while still adding that old-school charm.
Nothing says vintage to me that some old photography. And when I say old, I don’t only mean obtained secondhand. Photography techniques have advanced a lot over the years, but by revisiting some antique photography techniques such as Cyanotype, sepia, or black and white photography you’re able to artfully add that touch of yesteryear.
While the idea is to stay away from fussy, you don’t want to swing too far to the other side and end up going too minimalist. Shelves and tabletops still benefit from some mindful styling, but keep clusters simple, varying height and textures to keep the vignette interesting. Antique candlesticks always work well, and if they’re on the ornate side you can tone it down with an accompanying neutral-toned book or an organic-finished planter.
Finally, I think one key design element that really finishes the look of a Vintage Modern living room is the addition of some nice curtains. I would keep the curtain tones to be similar to a color you would find in nature: moss, faded granate, taupe, etc.
And finally, it may seem obvious, but if you haven’t yet visited an antique market, now’s your chance. It takes time to hone your eye, but just remember, less is more. Too many tchotchkes and you run the risk of heading into grandmillenial, or worse, grandma style. A thoughtfully curated collection that is mixed in with newer pieces is the goal to achieving a Vintage Modern aesthetic.
