If you’re looking to add unexpected dynamism to a space, consider factoring in a storied antique. Whether it’s a Louis Philippe mirror or a French armoire dresser, an antique nestled in among more neoteric pieces can lend a space an air of unconventional cool—plus, tie a whole room together! Of course, not every antique possesses the mutability to cozy up to contemporary pieces without causing visual friction. What pieces do designers turn to when they’re looking for a single antique piece to tie a whole room together? We highlight three stand-bys below.
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Rococo Mirror
An antique gold mirror feels surprisingly quaffable in modern interiors. Should you be looking for a way to sync elegant Regency-inspired furniture with graceful Mid-Century pieces, consider making an antique gold mirror a liaison. A gold rococo mirror acts similar to architectural features like a classical fireplace surround or elaborate crown molding. Both features are notorious for partnering with modern furnishings without a hint of discordance.
Crystal Chandelier
An antique crystal chandelier can totally transform the tenor of a contemporary room, plus make it feel polished. Thanks to their translucent qualities, chandeliers don’t feel like heavy-handed antiques. This makes them ideal for working into modern interiors where you want a hint of lawlessness, but not all-out stylistic anarchy. If you’re a bit hesitant about your ability to make a crystal chandelier feel apropos in a modern setting, try opting for an all-white palette.
French Dresser Armoire
They say the classics are the classics for a reason, and in the case of a French armoire, it must be because it melds with virtually any style of furniture, no matter how modern. Placed among minimalist and waifish pieces, an armoire feels like a grounding piece of architecture, not unlike a doorway. For inspiration on how to pull off the look, search for images featuring modern furniture styled in traditional digs. Look specifically for homes like brownstones or pre-war apartments with classical architecture.
Lead photo design by Liz Caan / Photo by Eric Roth
