10 Guidelines to Blending the Old with the New

  1. Group Small Collectables / Pictures together for more impact on a hall, side or sofa table works well.
  2. Hang all art-work at eye level both contemporary and traditional so as to be better appreciated whilst also giving balance to a room.
  3. Always choose appropriately sized furniture, i.e. a large table will overwhelm a small space.
  4. In smaller rooms leave as much floor space visible as possible; use tables with legs or pods, double pedestals as apposed to solid front pieces. A Victorian Nest of 4 Tables works great in a small living room whilst not taking up too much space provide a lot of functionablility.
  5. Try to avoid putting sofas against walls, if space provides create intimate seating groups instead. Place a tea or card table behind the sofa to take the bare look of the back of the sofa, this will also provide lighting, hold a vase, pictures etc.
  6. Antiques add style, grace and uniqueness to a room and can be blended/accentuated with cushions or throws.
  7. When investing in a ‘timeless’ antique be sure it is a quality piece, placing it on a rug it means it can be highlighted yet blended into a room giving a natural look.
  8. Balance is important! Avoid having everything the one height in a room, for example a room with matching alcoves does not have to have matching items in the alcoves, one could hold a bureau whilst the other a tall bookcase, experiment with ideas.
  9. Be imaginative with lighting, correct lighting can add dimension to a room.
  10. Bring the outdoors indoors! Flowers look great in any environment, informally arranged add a homely feel, whereas single stem arrangements compliment a more contemporary feel.