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How to Combine Modern and Traditional Decorating

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On the surface, no two decorating themes could seem further apart than modern and traditional decor.

With the laid back, reserved, and comfortable elements of traditional decorating and the low profile, sleek, and sharper edged trends of modern style, these two don't seem like they could ever coexist in the same space.

If you balance things correctly and combine the right pieces though, you can make this combination work beautifully and create one of the coolest looking rooms in your entire home.

Unequal Share

When it comes to combining these two different design themes, one of the biggest keys is not finding a 50/50 even balance between the two.

If you are going to be combining these two styles, you should select one as your dominant theme and introduce the other one as an accent or accessory style.

You can adequately pull off this mix by finding more of a 70/30 or 80/20 combination of the two.

Warming Up the Room

Typically, modern decor gives off a much colder vibe and these spaces are not usually as comfortable and inviting as other themes are.

Do you have a black modern couch or chair as the focal point in your living room?

You can add some warmth to the room by introducing natural wood floors, a coffee table, or a more traditional lamp fixture.

Adding just a few of these elements along with some splashes of color to change things up can add some warmth to the space and make the room feel much more comfortable.

Minimalism Is Your Friend

When it comes to decorating on a modern style, usually the more minimalistic the room is, the better.

If you are combining modern and traditional styles in your home, this idea couldn't be more spot on.

By simply having a few items from each theme, you won't overpower the room one way or the other and can successfully balance out the two coexisting ideas.

If you have a modern sofa in your living room, consider a traditional table with an outstanding and unique tiffany lamp on it.

This introduction of two polar opposite design ideas brings a healthy balance and exciting look to the space, no matter how big it is.

The fewer items you can use and just focus on necessity, the better your design will be in the long run.

Covering Space Correctly

One of the most popular design elements in any room today is through the use of an area rug.

Whether it is the living room, bedroom, or just a runner that connects one room to another and guides you into the dining room, an area rug is one of the best ways to introduce a different style into a room.

With standard modern furniture, using a large traditional area rug is one of the best ways you can balance the look.


Follow a few of these tips and tricks and you can easily combine these two elements.