A couple of months ago I competed in an
IKEA living room design competition filmed and edited into 3 short episodes for
Babelgum.com. Four designers were asked to come up with a creative concept showcasing IKEA products. My plan was to mix in some thrift store purchases with the modern and sleek IKEA furnishings to inject a little personality and history into the space. I think the trick to combine new and old furnishings is creating a perfect balance. Without any interesting finds or heirlooms your space may look like a lifeless furniture showroom, but too many may make your living room seem like a museum. Mixing items from different eras creates a unified timeless aesthetic and a space that is unique to you.
My friend Laura and I did some hunting at the
Meeker Avenue Flea Market in Williamsburg, and photographed some interesting furniture and accessories to include in the design presentation.
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Here is a selection of curiosities we found with a similar patina that we thought would look
great on top of a modern IKEA media console. |
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I thought this dress form would be fun on a dressing table to loop jewelry and
scarves around. The vintage fan caught my eye too! |
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| This nook in my apartment, photographed by Kelly Turso, is an example of mixing old and new. I hung antique milk glass plates as wall art and stacked pieces of pretty vintage china to create this feminine vignette on a simple parsons table. |
