Olioboard Inspiration: Creating Inspiring Vintage Interiors

Entry #2775, August 23, 2013

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Melding Outdoor Inspiration with your Interiors‘ from Lisa Ketz and this week we enjoy creating an inspiring vintage space in your home with Nanette Reynolds who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked her to give you ideas to create an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage finds and decorative elements in your interiors.

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #29

‘Creating Inspiring Vintage Interiors ’ –  Nanette Reynolds

Incorporating vintage items into your home is an excellent opportunity to give a space character. Whether you are an avid collector, someone who has inherited the “family jewels,” or a person who just appreciates how objects with history can transform your décor, vintage style gives you the chance to reflect your personality into your surroundings. 

Vintage details:

There are a few things to keep in mind when using vintage items. I suggest: collect only what you love and splurge solely on special one-of-a kind pieces; maintain an overall neutral palette and selectively incorporate the colors, patterns, and textures of a cherished period; create prominent display areas around your home; and think outside the box to utilize vintage items in the service of your needs and budget.

Realistically, outfitting your entire home in vintage may not always be practical, not to mention- costly. Take the kitchen pictured here inspired by a collection of Coke signs from the 50’s and 60’s. While it would be wonderful to have old-fashioned appliances and cabinetry, this kitchen utilizes energy efficient reproductions of appliances along with readily available, simple cabinetry. By using wall color and tile flooring popular of that period, and showcasing a fantastic 1950’s chrome table, the overall effect makes this kitchen special.

Defining areas of your home with vintage decor

Defining areas in your home where you can display a collection or a unique item prominently will create impact. For example, use the prime wall space of a staircase to display your collection of needlepoint by your grandmother, so it can be admired close up. Remember collections, in general, will make more of an impression when displayed together. And for those one-of-a-kind pieces, place them in locations such as an entry hall so arriving guests can marvel. Allowing your collection to be seen, in the right setting, affords a greater appreciation.

Finding creative ways to use vintage objects in ways other than for their original purpose is another fun way to incorporate them. Make shelving out of old wooden beverage crates. Use a trunk as a coffee table and store board games inside. Stack old suitcases together in a corner and always have a handy place for holiday supplies. Hide your modern electronics in an antique credenza. Use old glass jars to store dried beans. Re-purposing your vintage objects is not only green, but potential conversation pieces too.

Acquiring vintage items

You never know what you will discover when you start exploring thrift shops, attics, garage sales, church bazaars, etc. Part of the fun of acquiring vintage objects is learning about our history, and finding joy and beauty to share in your home. Collect what you love and your home will become a reflection of you.

Nanette Reynolds is an artist. For years I have primarily worked behind the scenes in theater, film, and television, as well as for special exhibitions in museums and stores. As a scenic artist, model maker, stylist, set designer, and art director – I
love a good challenge. In recent times, I have also been engaged in interior design projects and loving it. I welcome more of these endeavors to apply my talents to in the future.  You can visit Nanette on Olioboard or on Linkedin.