The Art of Mixing Period and Contemporary Furniture

Design influencers have recently started talking about ‘slow’ interiors—an approach that’s close to my heart. It’s about creating spaces that tell a story, using furniture and accessories accumulated over time, rather than buying a complete design scheme off the shelf. This philosophy inevitably leads to mixing period furniture with contemporary pieces, a technique I’ve mastered over years of designing client homes across Sussex, Kent, and London. So what’s the trick to making this mix-and-match approach work? Let’s find out more about it.

The principles of successful style mixing

When it comes to blending period and contemporary furniture, there are several key principles I always keep in mind. One rule I stick to is using 80% modern pieces and 20% vintage items to create a balanced, cohesive look. The secret is finding a unifying element, whether it’s a colour, pattern, or overarching theme. Another of my favorite decorating techniques is creating unexpected contrasts. Imagine a large, ornate antique mirror paired with a sleek, minimalist table—the juxtaposition can be absolutely magical. Accessories also become your best friends in bridging different eras. A contemporary lamp on a vintage sideboard or modern cushions on a traditional sofa can work wonders in creating a harmonious blend.

Real-world design examples

Let me walk you through some of my own interior design projects that showcase this mix-and-match approach:

Mid-century with Indonesian elegance

For the home transformation below, I paired a classic mid-century teak sideboard with an exotic carved mirror frame from Indonesia. Set against a traditional Cole and Sons wallpaper, it demonstrates how different eras and styles can create a truly unique space. The key was introducing this in a simple, lofty room that really allowed these statement pieces to shine.

Contemporary meets classic in the kitchen

This Victorian house renovation I worked on featured a modern kitchen with sleek bi-fold doors, completely transformed by an antique dining table and chairs. A Tom Dixon ceiling light added a modern edge, proving that kitchens don’t have to be sterile—they can be full of character and history.

Victorian charm with a modern twist

In another beautiful Victorian house project, I played with contrast by introducing a contemporary Tigermoth chandelier among mostly antique furnishings. This unexpected element brought the entire space to life, creating an exciting visual dialogue between old and new.

Georgian sophistication

The project below showcases how a Georgian town house with period detailing became a canvas for mixing styles. A modern sofa sat alongside contemporary art pieces and an ornate antique mirror, demonstrating that quality transcends time.

Bold contemporary mixing

One project showcased a contemporary sofa featuring a striking Jackson Pollok print, deliberately paired with a vintage floor lamp and a modern sputnik light. I even broke my own rule here by introducing some fashionable fabrics from Anna Hayman for the blinds and cushions, proving that, occasionally, following fashion is allowed!

Bedroom harmony

Even bedrooms can benefit from this mix-and-match approach. For the 1970s family home makeover below, I created a modern bedroom with a simple upholstered headboard and contemporary lamps, then introduced a mid-century teak chest of drawers either side of the bed. The result? A space that feels both timeless and modern-chic.

The philosophy behind this approach

When approaching a project, I always consider the original context of furniture pieces. The mid-century style, for instance, emerged from the post-World War II housing boom, where furniture was smaller, less ornate, and reflecting a new optimism. This historical understanding helps me place items thoughtfully. Quality is also paramount. For example, a Regency chair reupholstered in contemporary fabric can work beautifully, but only if both the original piece and the new material are of exceptional quality. It’s about respecting craftsmanship across different eras. There’s also an important sustainable element to this approach. By incorporating vintage and antique, we’re recycling and preventing quality furniture from being discarded—a win for design and the environment.

Your unique space awaits

Mixing and matching period and contemporary styles might seem daunting, but think of it as putting together an outfit. Classic pieces are your staples, with something new and modern adding that spark of excitement. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and choose items you truly love. Ready to transform your space with a thoughtful mix of period and contemporary design? Drop me a line today and let’s create something extraordinary together.

Nicky