Antique Meets Modern

One of the most interesting things about many of the interiors we label as “modern” today is the fact that often times the majority of the pieces aren’t very modern at all. We find that the most successful “modern” interiors blend antiques, vintage finds, and contemporary furniture pieces. So how can an authentic Gustavian arm chair look so at home in a Financial District loft? It’s not in the least bit easily done (and takes a trained and educated eye), but here are some of our favorite examples.

It’s common practice to let the architecture of a space inform interior decisions; however, when interior designer Eric Cohler came to design this two story loft space (above), he decided to stretch the rules a bit. Luxe floor to ceiling curtains help soften the space and add a feeling of modern grandeur–the perfect backdrop for antique details such as a Queen Anne side chair and an opulent gilt mirror. Graphic fabrics, a large scale patterned carpet (this always feels contemporary), and a red lacquer coffee table help tie in the modern architecture.

Detailed moldings and original wood floors pair perfectly with wingback chairs upholstered in a vibrant Suzanni Print, above. A marble dining table and a pair of “T” chairs by Katavolos bring the edginess.

There’s nothing more traditional than an aristocratic portrait on top of a damask wall covering; however, in this entryway above, this classic pairing is turned on its head by both the dramatic, over scale damask pattern on the walls and graphic black and white cowhide covering a Louis XIV Cabriole leg bench.

One of my all time favorite modern classics is the Brno chair by Mies van der Rohe. In this bedroom above, it’s an incredible foil to an antique chinoiserie dresser and federal style mirror. This room encapsulates eclecticism in every sense of the word.

Jacques Grange is legendary for his ability to mix multiple periods of antiques into a furniture composition so perfect it hurts. This interior’s antique deco club chairs and carpet look exquisite in the company of a Paul Dupree Lafon Cocktail table and Calder mobile.

In this foyer above, classical French architectural detailing and wood parquet floors are an opportunity for the designer to play with many juxtapositions. Chandeliers in organic forms, contrasting upholstery, and mirrors layered on top of one another keep this corridor from feeling stuffy or too traditional.

Another Jacques Grange masterpiece (above). This is Grange’s own home, showcasing a Gustavian arm chair, Victorian candelabras, and a pair of neoclassical occasional tables living in harmony alongside a French modernist chair and a graphic color block rug. So, next time you think your space could use something new, perhaps the perfect piece isn’t so new after all!