My expert interior designer eyes see a major trend emerging. Most likely an element of the economic downturn but I think something more.. Excess is out and value is in. The trend I see is the combination of the two elements in our interior furnishings. What I refer to as ‘landfill furniture’ is no more (good riddance). Instead reuse of classic upholstery and wood pieces with true appreciation for their design is the IN. What some interior designers call “transitional” decorating — artfully mixing contemporary pieces with vintage ones — is “the No. 1 featured style in magazines like House Beautiful, and in Elle Decor on a fine level, and in Cottage Living,” says interior designer Mallory Mathison.

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn says, “There is something to be said about a well-made, 50-year-old piece still doing its job in your present home. A lot of older things were just made better. But mixing those quality older pieces with something new gives them a fresh look.” What matters and is critical for design success? Contrast with texture, maintain proportion, and most importantly EDIT! That modernist art may be the only element needed or the modernist art element may be introduced with a lamp shade and new fabric on an vintage wing chair.

Take a moment and check out vintage shops, your parents/grandparents attic and garage sales. Then express yourself.

Craving one simple, beautiful space? Wishing you had a friend in the design business right now? We’re here to help, and fast! Let’s do this!