Having an old house opens the doors to a huge range of design ideas that can really highlight its best features, and accentuate the vintage character of the abode. But, if you don't know where to start to gain inspiration, then here are a few pointers on how.
Find the features
Before you wade in with design ideas, consider what are the best features of your vintage home. What makes it stand out? Are there any unusual architectural assets or quirks that make it a talking point? Ask friends and family what they think, use them as sounding boards for any ideas that you might have bubbling away. Work out how you can make the most of any of the features, let them stand out and make them a focal point of your home.
Handle with care
If your vintage home has some old features, then treat them with the utmost respect. Don't do them a severe injustice by trying to make them overly modern. If something is vintage, then it deserves to stay that way. But that's not to say that you can't add style to a dated feature. If you have 1930s doors, for example, you can add small design touches that allow it to flirt with a modern era. But, don't overdo it.
If you have classy oak bullnose skirting, for example, then don't replace it with tacky plastic, as it will really look out of place in a vintage home. Make sure to keep to the vintage style throughout your home, and don't allow yourself to veer off track.
Go hunting
You're not likely to gain vintage design inspiration from your local homes store, so widen your search for unusual finds. Retro fabric, distressed furniture and eclectic ornaments can be unearthed at flea markets, charity shops, car boot sales and even the internet, so do a bit of detective work to get the look you're after. Unused items, old junk and recycled art can all add to the vintage look of your home.
Feeling floral
There's something about flowers that really works well to bring out the vintage feel. Whether you choose to keep a fresh bunch of flowers in the fireplace, some dried lavender in a vase or opt for floral curtains or tablecloth, get closer to nature to ooze out the vintage in your home.
Single pieces
Having an old house, doesn't mean to say that you have to stick to everything of a certain era. Even just creating a centrepiece, such a vintage chandelier can really tease out the vintage character of a home, whilst allowing it to be surrounded by modern furniture.
Colour carefully
When it comes to decor, go carefully with a vintage home. Rustic, pales, and pastels work well, but avoid bold and brassy colours that scream out at you. Minimalist yet warm and inviting is to aim for, and work the colours around any accessories you have, such as cushions, vases, antiques or furniture. A solid wooden mirror above the fireplace can add charm to a vintage home, as can carefully selected pictures and hangings.
About the author:
Crispin works and writes for the Principal Homebuyers blog on wide range of subjects. Specialists in matching home buyers with sellers he finds great pleasure in helping customers stage their house for quick sales.
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