March 29, 2024
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“Eclectic style is about mixing elements from different periods and styles to create something that is uniquely yours.” – Miles Redd

Few design moments are as sought after and complex as mixing styles in a home, perfectly blending elements of multiple aesthetics to create a space that is functional and aesthetically inviting. At Jean-Marc Fray Antiques we strive to curate items that harmoniously fuse vintage modern lines with classic French details and more. While each item alone can bring color and texture to a room, pairing these pieces creates sophistication and luxury. Although many styles can be combined, we are currently loving the effect of layering rustic antique pieces with modern gleaming items. Here are five reasons to pair rustic and modern furniture.

1. Add Warmth to a Modern Space

More and more contemporary builds and renovations are leaning towards a modern aesthetic. With shiny metals and sleek glass, these spaces emphasize the futuristic design details and straightforward silhouettes known of the 20th and 21st centuries. Adding warm woods and painted finishes to these clean spaces helps balance the look. It gives an appeal and inviting element to what can otherwise feel cold and lifeless. Bringing your home up to date does not mean you have to avoid the rustic warmth of farm tables, floral detailing, or brass hardware. These little antique and rustic details can give your modern space the warmth it deserves.

2. Refresh a Rustic Home

At Jean-Marc Fray we are no stranger to the thrill of updating a space! Bringing in new elements is always important, especially after living in a home for an extended period of time. Nothing refreshes a home more than the addition of modern design – think chrome coffee table or hand-blown Murano glass lamps. Pairing a new, clean item with your beloved antiques revitalizes both items immediately, adding shine and glamour in a sophisticated way. No single period feels dated when paired with other styles. Stimulate a rustic buffet by adding a piece of modern art. Invigorate a pair of antique Louis XVI side chairs with metal and glass side tables. The possibilities are endless!

Pair of lamps from Murano, Italy made of hand-blown blue iridescent colored glass. They have been newly wired to fit US standards.

3. Showcase Personality and Character

An eclectic space highlights the personality of the owner. By using furniture and art from multiple periods and styles the space becomes uniquely specific. The best designs are those that craft a story about the person. When surrounded by repetitious items the story told is only about the style, not about the person. Crafting your distinct and individual viewpoint through your interior design is an incredible process. Here at the gallery we find joy in watching our clients pair pieces we had not considered previously. We learn about the person as they skillfully point out which items catch their eye. Layering styles brings your room closer to telling your exclusive story.

Pair of consoles, Italian. These consoles are from the Piedmont region and made of hand carved and hand painted wood. The pieces combine gray, blue, and ivory colors blended in with a carnauba wax finish.  Mix media on canvas from mid-century Italy. This piece is signed by the artist and is titled “Il Desiderio Espresso”, translating to “The Expressed Desire.” The painting has beautiful color blocking of blue and black with striking abstract forms of red and pink. We were drawn to the color and confident gestures of this piece.

4. Emphasize the Best of Each Style

We love the clean look of a Romeo Rega console table and the polished characteristics of the Minotti sofa. Yet, these pieces truly shine when paired with items that juxtapose this modern look. Similarly, a Spanish sunburst or a wooden workbench gain prominence when in contrast with Modernist accessories. It is easier to overlook a special piece when surrounded by similar items, while these same pieces become centerpieces of the room when offset with diverse items. Each item gets the chance to showcases the best of the style, glowingly evoking what is superb about that period of furniture design.

Pair of chests from Spain featuring the original salmon colored paint and wonderful patina. The paint has wear consistent with age and shows a beautiful warm undertone beneath. The knobs are wood and match the pair. They are supported by tapered legs. Each features a key and working lock. Mirror, French, in the Modernist style. The four beveled glass panels form the frame of this bold modernist mirror.

5. Color, Texture, Scale!

Each period of furniture design was influenced by the time, creating what we know today as the iconic look of each style. This includes the colors used, prominent textures, and scale of the items – each influenced by the social changes and fluctuations of the period. By layering different styles in one space you widen the palette you are using when decorating your own home! You can use color, texture, and scale from all these time periods to best reflect what is beautiful about your space. Rustic texture of an antique painted chest can blend beautifully with the bold colors of a Murano glass vase. A provincial French farm table can become most functional when surrounded by Mid-Century teak dining chairs.

Pair of hand-blown Murano glass lamps featuring unique glass components on a brass structure. In the style of iconic Italian designer Ettore Sotsass. We love the geometric forms and strong impact this pair brings to a space. We love the contrast of the lightness of the glass with the strong brass details. This one-of-a-kind pair has been newly wired to fit US standards. Example of pairing rustic with Modern furniture.  Farm table, from Spain, made of patinated chestnut. The Antique console features a single 18th-Century plank top on a reconstructed antique base of reclaimed beam.

The art of marrying rustic, antique items with modern design is a creative process. It allows you to focus on what aspects you love best, beyond a single style niche. It is a fusion of periods, and the key is to let your individuality shine through. Combining and layering history and design can be a beautiful narrative, and we are happy to help you find what works best. Will you pair rustic and modern furniture? Visit Jean-Marc Fray Antiques at our gallery in Austin to explore our extensive selection of items or visit our website to see what we have currently available!

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