Taking The Old & Making It New Again

There's a big shift in the interior design industry that has me and many others excited. Finally, old is new again, and this trend has gone mainstream. There are several reasons why, but I'd like to think the main one is that people have suddenly started to appreciate the craftsmanship, quality of materials, and respect for the piece. I know that's the case for some, and certainly for me throughout my entire life, but more so, it's sustainable, and that's the new Très Chic. We're embracing rich warm tones, detailed hardware, and curved and carved details. Designers are drinking this up, and the fever is catching with the public.

You might have heard of the grandma chic trend, but I can't say I'm in love with that. Honestly, been there, done that! I started designing in the 90s (gosh, I sound old!). At that time, layers, layers, and more layering were hot! Swags, jabots, cornices, rosettes, tie-backs, tassel trim, and so much more! Pattern mixing was at its finest, and the more carved and curved a piece was, the more desirable. Then we entered a fresh palette phase and let it all go. Okay, I know some still hold on to those goblet pleat with button drapes and old-school burgundy, gold, and sage fabrics. This is where you really need a discerning eye or a professional to come in and rescue your home from its dated look.

So how do you make old look new again? This is where talent comes into play and that detailed eye. If you have it, you have it. If you don't, hire a professional! It can be harder than you think to pull these styles together to create a clean look. "Achieving simple is rarely simple," Judd Lord (aka hubby) states when he's designing for Brizo Faucets & Delta Faucets. Saving pieces of furniture saves you money, but only if it's right, so there's a financial offset right there! Here's the secret, the key... it's all in the balance. I know that sounds easy, but it's not the easiest to accomplish. You want to mix with modern, clean lines, and balance the look. A yin-yang of design, where the modern piece complements the curves and craftsmanship of the antique or vintage piece. Frank Lloyd Wright said, "One should strive for the elimination of the insignificant. Only the significant remains."

I love mixing an old piece with modern art or a modern lamp. Clean accessories, meaning it looks finished but not overdone and leaning towards the Victorian "more is more" layers upon layers. It's about appreciating and loving them both. To me, antiques and modern are like my boys, Greyson and Hunter (yes, GreyHunt). They're both so different in their looks, beliefs, interests, and personalities, but I love them both with all of me equally.

Below are some samples of designs where we incorporated an old or vintage piece. Some were made by family members, passed down, or a treasure found and adored. We'd love for you to embrace yours at home and give it a try. If you do, please email us an image or send a message on Instagram at @greyhuntinteriors.

We can't wait to see it!