I recently had a conversation with a new client that went something like this:
“My taste is changing – I find I am preferring the more modern interiors but have a house full of traditional pieces that I can’t just get rid of. I still like them but how do I mix the two?”
There are more than a few schools on the ‘how to’ around mixing styles so this isn’t the gospel – just my take.
It is always my preference to keep larger investment pieces – mostly case goods like dining tables, armoires, built-ins, libraries, even coffee tables – in keeping with timeless, classic design and consistent throughout a home. I think of these pieces as part of the architecture – that the design conversation should be singular and unified. Too many voices make for a loud, visually busy house. If your home is thoroughly mid-century, contemporary, French country – the same applies. One voice.
Choosing to fold in soft seating, lighting, floor coverings and artwork that are of a different design direction is what can give the edge, can update and modernize the look. We tend to eventually outgrow or outlive sofas and chairs and are less attached to smaller ticket items like lighting so aren’t horrified when we fall out of love.
Our tastes in artwork tend not to swap out entirely – I know the story behind every piece of art I own…where we bought it, who the artist is…these are more emotional spends, less motivated by trend. But using resources like Art Interiors where original, local (Toronto) art is available for reasonable pricing may help you fill your need for something outside your usual tastes.
Rugs, well, you may have to suck that one up. You can spend a fortune on floor coverings really easily so choose carefully. Maybe opt for something more transitional than your gut is asking you to so you aren’t painting yourself into a design corner.
A Quick Word on IDS
I was underwhelmed by this year’s Interior Design Show. Sigh.
I left last year’s show with fists full of inspiration – new contacts and sources – and literally giddy after walking through Studio North, a showcase of up and coming talent and their wares.
It just felt like the whole experience lacked substance. The exhibitors I was excited to see like Torp Inc, Avenue Road and L’Atelier to name a few were relegated to/choose to only be part of the Design Icons, Cherish and How do you Live? exhibits where you were given the teeniest glimpse of their offerings – like a peep show. I wish I had had more quarters.
It is perhaps a sign of the times. The consumer grows ever more saavy and aware, impossible to WOW because they have seen it all so why waste marketing dollars (and I would imagine this show is pricey to attend) on a dying method of reaching the end consumer? Would be curious to know what the traffic numbers were like.
All of that said, I had a delightful time with one of my very favorite people, chatting and noshing on everything from mussels to waffles (with clotted cream and salted caramel – insane) to sushi, washing down the lot with vodka. Worth. It.