Some of the best interior design incorporates different design eras to make a space that’s unique to people living in it.

One of the best ways to create such a space is to mix modern and vintage furniture, as well as other homewares and accessories. This might sound like an easy task, but it requires more than just putting a new sofa next to an old armchair.

To mix and match modern and vintage furniture in a stylish and elegant way, follow these rules and ideas:

Adhere to the 80/20 rule

One of the easiest things about mixing modern and vintage furniture is to follow an 80/20 rule of effective design.

Unless you’re a proper collector of antiques, most of your furniture (about 80 per cent) will be modern.

The rest goes to vintage furniture. These should be mainly larger pieces, but smaller details also count such as vintage picture frames or leather-bound books.

Go for interesting colour combinations

Since the mix of vintage and modern focuses on contrast, there’s no better way to highlight it than with colour. And don’t be scared to go big with your palette even if you’re aiming for a more minimalist look.

Sure, it’s smart to have a colour scheme to stick to, but you can freely opt for two dominant shades fighting for power. Think something bold like foliage green and a deep tone of blue-grey.

Repetition is vital

Eclectic design is super stylish today but throwing too many elements together will create an overwhelming vibe instead of a stylish look.

To bring things together, find a common colour they share and repeat it throughout the space (you can also repeat patterns and materials).

The ideal situation would allow you to exhibit at least one mutual attribute in both vintage and modern pieces in your space.

Pick a dominant wood tone

Sure, the rules of design are very flexible, and you can mix different woods, but if you’re new to design, it’s best to pick one wood tone and use it to connect the space.

You can look into Amish dining furniture made from rustic cherry wood and mix it with the same type of kitchen island or sideboard.

Warm tones usually have a very calming vibe that will fit in perfectly with modern items in your home.

If you love wood and wooden details, make sure to use them as a tie-in for all your modern and vintage furniture.

Fill a small space with an oversized piece

An oversized oak hutch or a massive English writing desk can do wonders to make a small space look grand.

When it comes to antiques in your home, play with proportions and your small space will look much larger.

Start with oversized pieces that are old and complement them nicely with modern accents.

Highlight the odd piece

If you have just one vintage piece that doesn’t really compliment anything else in your home, make it stand out on purpose.

For instance, if you have a large cabinet base table, turn it into a focal point of your space and let all other modern pieces bow down to it.

Focus on details

To combine vintage and modern in an easy and quick way, use details like lighting.

Find opportunities to mix eras such as installing a salvaged lighting fixture or highlighting your classic Tiffany lamp or chandelier. These details will bring to life your contemporary space.

Another way to add instant character to your space is to grab a vintage mirror, surround it with (faux) plants and let it reflect the light all over the place.

To create a perfectly curated modern space with many vintage details while avoiding potential clashes, focus on making a balanced interior with pieces that you love.

If the pieces match your personal style and preferences, you will manage to create a stylish home that’s cohesive and attractive.