How to Mix New and Vintage Art Deco Decor

How to Mix New and Vintage Art Deco Decor

If you’ve scrolled through home design feeds lately, you’ve likely seen the glamorous comeback of Art Deco. This design style features curves, lacquered finishes, geometric patterns, and moody metallics reminiscent of the 1920s. And if you love drama, luxury, and craftsmanship, this decorating style is for you. 

However, leaning too much into the Art Deco style can quickly make your space start to feel like something out of The Great Gatsby. The secret is mixing new and vintage Art Deco pieces in a way that feels intentional, layered, and timeless. Not sure where to start on your Art Deco journey?

Here are some tips for mixing new and vintage Art Deco elements into your home design. 

Start with a modern base

Every decorating style requires balance, but that’s especially true when you’re going vintage. An interior designer in Plainfield, IL, says to start with a clean, modern foundation of soft, neutral walls, contemporary lighting, and streamlined furniture. From there, you can add Art Deco accents like bold mirrors, brass details, or a standout side table with curved lines and inlay work.

Mix metals and materials

The Art Deco style favors rich, high-gloss materials such as chrome, glass, lacquer, and marble. Pair warm brass with matte black hardware, or combine a glossy burlwood sideboard with a velvet-upholstered chair to embrace the look without going overboard. If you’re working with vintage finds, don’t worry if they show a little patina because that’s what gives them character.

Bridge art between eras

One way you can combine the old with the new is by hanging a contemporary abstract painting above a vintage Art Deco console. Or pair a framed black-and-white photograph with a new mirror that features Deco-inspired etching. Don’t be afraid to reframe vintage prints, either. A modern frame with clean lines can instantly update older artwork. If you have a variety of pieces from each era, you can also create a blended gallery wall.

Play with pattern and symmetry

Art Deco loves the order and repetition of patterns, like chevrons and zigzags. To make those patterns feel current, use them sparingly and in creative ways. For example, create a single wallpapered statement wall in a small powder room, or place an area rug that adds a Deco-inspired rhythm to your living room.

Invest in quality over quantity

In the early days of Art Deco, everyone celebrated craftsmanship. Pieces weren’t just made to be admired but to last. Now, you can invest in one or two high-quality pieces that speak to you, like a walnut coffee table with Deco-inspired inlay or a mirror that features stepped edges and smoked glass. You can mix those heirloom-quality pieces with new items that have a similar attention to detail for a home that feels layered, curated, and full of personality.

Use lighting to set the mood

Look for fixtures that blend sculptural shapes with soft, diffused light. A chandelier with frosted glass globes or a sleek, tiered floor lamp will add that signature Deco drama without overpowering a space. Modern LED options make it easy to maintain a warm and inviting glow rather than a stark one.

Art Deco is one of those design eras that always circles back because it’s simply timeless. Whether you’re drawn to its metallic glamour or its bold geometry, think of Art Deco as the jewelry of your space. A little goes a long way, and when done right, your home will feel both nostalgic and utterly of the moment.

5 Surfaces in Your Home You Should Decorate

5 Surfaces in Your Home You Should Decorate

When you’re decorating, it’s easy to focus on the big stuff like paint colors, furniture, and rugs. It’s even easier to overlook small surfaces, such as your console table or kitchen island. These spaces might seem minor and like they don’t need any special attention, but their appearance can totally shift the feel of a room. Whether you’re prepping for guests or want things to look a little more pulled together, a few thoughtful touches can go a long way.

Here are five surfaces in your home to dress up with a bit of charm and personality:

Entryway Console Table

Let’s face it. An entryway console table is a spot where most people keep their keys, bag, and a pile of mail. Instead of letting this surface become cluttered, style it! Start with a lamp or tall vase to add some height. Then, you can balance that out with a tray or bowl (you will need somewhere to put those items that are usually scattered all over the place!). A stack of books, a framed photo, and a mirror above the table can round out the look and keep things pretty and practical.

Kitchen Island

The kitchen island is another area that usually becomes a catchall for groceries, snacks, and school stuff. But it has major styling potential. Use a big tray or wooden cutting board to group items together. Then layer in something with life, like a bowl of fruit, a vase of flowers, or even a sculptural piece. And if you like to host, keep a pretty cake stand or cloche handy to show off treats in style.

Nightstand

Your bedside table deserves more than a dusty alarm clock and a glass of water. However, your bedroom is your wind-down zone, so you want to keep its appearance cozy and intentional. A soft-glow lamp, a coaster for your tea, and a catchall dish for jewelry or hair ties are great basics, says an interior decorator based in Birmingham, AL. Then add a calming candle or your current read, and maybe a tiny bud vase with fresh flowers. Just enough to make bedtime feel like a treat.

Mantel

Do you typically decorate your mantel during the holidays? Don’t let it be a once-a-year decor space. Keeping it styled year-round can really elevate the room and overall feel of your home. A focal point, like a large mirror or piece of art, can be the star of the show above the mantel or leaning against the wall. Then, you can layer in decor at different heights. Think candlesticks, vases, small plants. Don’t be afraid of a bit of asymmetry either. It gives that relaxed, modern vibe. 

Coffee Table

For those who spend a lot of time in their living room or family room, the coffee table can serve as an eating area or home for the remote. But it’s also prime real estate for style. As you choose items to place on the surface, try grouping them in threes for visual balance. For example, a stack of books, a pretty candle, and a tray are visually appealing. A tray can keep remotes from taking over, and if your table is on the larger side, divide it into little zones so nothing feels too random.

Every surface, no matter how small, is a chance to add personality and polish to your home. Next time you’re decorating, think about these spots in the house and consider giving them a fun upgrade.

French Blue Kitchen Ideas You Can Achieve in a Weekend

French Blue Kitchen Ideas You Can Achieve in a Weekend

There’s something effortlessly elegant about a French blue kitchen. The color evokes a sense of calm, refinement, and timeless charm — everything you want in a space where you cook, gather, and create memories. The best part? You don’t need to start from scratch or take on a full renovation to get the look.

Here are some simple, stylish ways you can infuse your kitchen with French blue beauty in just a weekend.

1. Paint Your Cabinets or Island

The most impactful update you can make in a weekend is giving your cabinets or kitchen island a fresh coat of French blue paint. Opt for a soft, muted tone for a more traditional feel, or go slightly bolder for a modern twist. Brands like Farrow & Ball’s Lulworth Blue or Benjamin Moore’s Van Courtland Blue offer gorgeous options that bring out the warmth of wood and brass. If you’re not ready to commit to all your cabinets, painting just the lower ones or the island can still make a big statement.

2. Add a French Blue Backsplash

If you have a white or cream kitchen, you can update your backsplash to something French blue. This color combo is so chic, and peel-and-stick tile options make it possible to install a fresh backsplash without calling in a contractor. Instead of the usual subway tile patterns, choose a simple floral motif or a fish scale design. Or, you can look for European-inspired prints or vintage tiles with French blue accents to emphasize a countryside atmosphere.

3. Incorporate Textiles in French Blue

Sometimes, the easiest updates come down to textiles. Kitchen curtains, Roman shades, table linens, or chair cushions in French blue can subtly shift your space’s entire palette. Choose patterns like toile, ticking stripes, or delicate florals for a French countryside feel. Layering in these touches creates softness and visual interest — no paintbrush required. Don’t overlook tea towels and oven mitts, says an interior designer in Westchester, NY. They’re small, affordable accessories that can reinforce your color story.

4. Style with French Blue Accents

Not ready to commit to paint or tile? Try working French blue into your décor instead. Display ceramic dishes, pitchers, or canisters in the hue. Swap out everyday items like your utensil holder, soap dispenser, or fruit bowl for French blue alternatives. Even a vintage-style clock or a few curated cookbooks with blue spines can tie the room together visually. Styling shelves or open cabinetry with thoughtfully chosen accents is one of the fastest ways to elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic.

5. Bring in Fresh Florals and Natural Touches

To balance the cool tones of French blue, bring in natural elements like a wood cutting board, woven baskets, or fresh herbs in terracotta pots. Add a small vase of fresh white flowers, hydrangeas, or roses. The contrast between the organic textures and the refined blue palette captures the essence of the relaxed French country style.

Creating a French blue kitchen doesn’t have to involve a significant renovation or weeks of disruption. With a bit of creativity and a free weekend, you can completely shift the mood of your space. Whether you lean toward timeless elegance or rustic charm, the right shade of French blue can make your kitchen feel refreshed, refined, and uniquely yours.

How to Spruce Up Your Home While the Kids Are Back at School

How to Spruce Up Your Home While the Kids are Back at School

Many of us have sent the kids back to school, which is the perfect time to tackle those pending home improvement projects! Whether you’re looking to freshen up your space, make minor repairs, or indulge in a full-on redecorating spree, this quieter time is ideal for focusing on your home.

Here are five ideas to help you maximize your newfound free time and spruce up the house while you can! 

Get rid of clutter and organize.

Throughout the summer, clutter can pile up, but now is the perfect time to take control! Use this uninterrupted time to go through your belongings (and the kids!) and decide what you really need. Donate what you can and toss what you have to, including toys, clothing, and household items. Once you’ve gone through everything, the sense of accomplishment from organizing what’s left will feel amazing.

Focus on high-traffic areas like living spaces and kitchens, then move to bedrooms and beyond. Investing in storage solutions like baskets, bins, or shelving units will keep everything organized moving forward. Other tools like drawer dividers, pantry organizers, and closet systems can also help streamline your home and make it easier to keep things tidy long-term.

Refresh and renew with paint.

Nothing transforms a room as quickly and affordably as a fresh coat of paint. Now that the kids are out of the house during the day, you can take your time painting without worrying about little hands touching wet walls or accidentally spilling paint. Most often, living rooms, bedrooms, or kitchens need paint the most.

If you’re looking for a quick project, painting an accent wall can give a space a new look without committing to an entire room. Similarly, if painting a whole room feels too much, try an easier task like painting the trim, an old piece of furniture, or even a door. Small, simple changes can still make a big difference in how your home looks and feels! 

Work on your exterior.

Cleaning and organizing your yard, patio, or porch can give you a functional outdoor space throughout the fall. If you have garden beds, start by pruning overgrown plants, removing weeds, and refreshing the mulch. You can also plant seasonal flowers like mums or pansies while you’re down there. Adding flowers will bring a pop of color to your landscape.

If you have a lackluster patio, deck, or driveway, give it a power wash to remove dirt and grime that may have built up over the summer months. With time and enough budget, you can invest in new furniture and create a cozy setup to enjoy during the fall. Think string lights or lanterns, a fire pit, and an outdoor couch with plush cushions. 

Check off small maintenance projects.

Take a walk through your home and make a list of the minor repairs or improvements you’ve been putting off. From leaky faucets to patching up small holes in the walls, replacing broken light fixtures, or tightening loose cabinet doors, there’s always something that can use a little TLC. Addressing these issues will not only improve the look and feel of your home but also make you feel more secure and prepared for the season ahead.

Don’t forget to ensure your HVAC system works. If there are any issues, you’ll want them addressed before the winter weather moves in. Remember to test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, too. 

Redecorate with new textiles, patterns, or accessories.

An interior designer in Dover, DE, says swapping out the textiles and accessories around your home is an affordable way to make a noticeable change. Create a cozy, colorful atmosphere by adding throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to your main living space in rich, warm tones like burgundy, mustard, or olive green. Soft textures like velvet or wool are also perfect for this time of year and create a warm, welcoming environment. Add layered curtains, new bedding, or updated towels in the bathroom to breathe new life throughout your home. 

Now that your kids are back at school, take advantage of those precious hours and give your house the attention it deserves! You don’t even have to do anything crazy. These simple ideas can help you transform your home and prepare for the season ahead.

How to Incorporate Fluted Glass in Your Home

How to Incorporate Fluted Glass in Your Home

Do you want to transform your home into something luxurious and glamorous? Using fluted glass can be a game-changer in achieving a sophisticated aesthetic. The fluted interior design style incorporates fluted or ribbed textures as a primary decorative element. From panels to doors and cabinets, fluted glass can elevate your space and take it to new heights of elegance.

If you need help seamlessly integrating fluted glass into your home, here are five ideas.

Embrace a Textured Canvas for Stylish Walls

Fluted panels are an excellent way to introduce texture and depth to your walls. Whether you choose wood, metal, or PVC materials, these panels create a visually striking effect that you can customize to suit various design styles. When selecting your panels, opt for neutral tones to achieve a timeless look or experiment with bold colors to make a statement. Need help determining which spaces work best with fluted walls? Try the living room or bedroom. 

Create An Entrance with Character

Enhance the entrance of your home with fluted doors. These doors feature vertical grooves or ridges along their surface, making them both functional and a stunning focal point. When selecting a material for the door, choose one that complements your overall design theme, such as wooden fluted doors for a warm and inviting atmosphere or sleek metal doors for a modern touch. The texture of fluted doors also adds a layer of visual interest to any space, making a lasting impression on your guests.

Invest in Storage with Style

Instead of the plain bins and boxes you see everywhere, upgrade your storage solutions with fluted cabinets with vertical grooves or flutes on their surfaces, says an interior designer in Marion, IL. These cabinets look lovely in kitchens and bathrooms and can also elevate a stylish bar area. The texture of fluted cabinets adds a touch of luxury, making them a perfect addition to any room where you want to combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Mix and Match for Visual Harmony

Mix and match fluted panels, doors, and cabinets to balance different elements and create a cohesive and visually appealing design. For example, pair fluted doors with neutral-toned fluted panels for a harmonious look. Or, test different materials and colors to find the combination that complements your existing decor while adding a touch of glamour.

Play with Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in accentuating the beauty of fluted glass, as different lighting fixtures can cast shadows and highlights on the textured surfaces. Consider installing pendant lights or wall sconces to create a captivating interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the overall ambiance of your space. When you find the right fixtures, you can showcase the beauty of fluted glass and how it contributes to the mood and atmosphere of the room.

Incorporating fluted glass into your home design allows you to create a luxurious and stylish environment. From fluted panels to doors and cabinets, these elements can transform your space into a haven of sophistication. Experiment with different materials, colors, and lighting to find the perfect balance that suits your personal style.