Although natural paints like chalk and milk paint lends themselves
to creating a genuine vintage look quite easily,
some may believe that it can only be used for this style.
Another option, however, is to create a sleek, clean and modern look.
to creating a genuine vintage look quite easily,
some may believe that it can only be used for this style.
Another option, however, is to create a sleek, clean and modern look.
Let's first take a look at
the distressed or aged look that appeals to those
who prefer to create a look that says, "inherited with a story..."
the distressed or aged look that appeals to those
who prefer to create a look that says, "inherited with a story..."
Making a modern statement with colour, fittings and styling All of these amazing pieces have a vintage authenticity
that was either enhanced or created.
But if you're after something more 2020 than 1920,
here are a few examples of turning Queen Anne into Lady Gaga:
Two-tone with lovely distressing detail
Beautifully aged with Dark Wax
Charcoal and white creates a contemporary look. Photo: Issuu
Creating an old world bathroom
Styling and silhouette nods to the past
Clean and crisp...even with the stepped bottom
Select a modern tap and mirror for an even more contemporary look
1. Consider the Silhouette
Curves, appliqués, carved or raised moulding, these are the details that many upcyclers swoon over and seek out. But if you want modern, think straight legs, flat-front drawers, simple and clean lines.
2. Evaluate the Environs
Wall colour, flooring, other furniture and soft furnishings, the overall interior styling and decor of the room the piece will be in, will impact how the piece is interpreted. Surrounded by vintage, a modern piece, can shift eras!
3. Choosing a Colour
Oftentimes the basics including—black, grey and white—especially when combined with bright or primary colours such as orange, yellow, green or turquoise—can more easily be viewed as modern than, for example, soft ivory with pink, sage or lavender. Keep in mind that sample jars can be a huge cost-savers!
4. Finesse the Finish
This is the time to ditch the distressing. Instead, select a fine-grade sandpaper and smooth-down before the final coat of paint. Eliminate pigment flecks that are beautifully characteristic of these natural paints. Water down your final, smooth coat or keep a container of water nearby and dip your Paint Brush as needed for a silky smooth and modern finish. Consider Wax, Tough Coat or Hemp Oil as a finish.
5. It's in the Details
Consider the knob! Although glass and crystal are timeless, some shapes can have a distinctively vintage feel. Find one with a modern shape or seek out bright colours, stripes, or coloured glass in a contemporary shape.
Painting to restyle and modernise a dated timber bathroom. Photo: House and Home
Perfectly distressed to appear aged. Photo: A Cupboard Less Ordinary
Updating a Mid-Century dresser
Simple, straight lines and bright colour. Photo: Bathroom Design Ideas
Painting dated pine for an instant update
Antiqued and fabulous dresser
RSS Feed
