Thoughtful design and paying attention to the smallest details can make all the difference in making the end result chic and sophisticated. Here are a few tips and tricks I use to bring new life to these old pieces.

MIXING FABRIC I LOVE mixing fabric on one piece of furniture. But be careful, it can go wrong real quick! Things to keep in mind when mixing fabrics:

Stick with coordinating colors. Mixing patterns within the same color family works best and using varying values within a color family can also add depth. Play with scale. Often larger scale patterns mixed with smaller scale can add interest and dimension. Use the same fabric construction when mixing. I tend to mix wovens with wovens and prints with prints. When you start to add in a lot of different elements that’s when it gets a bit hairy! Put it to the test. I often lay out my swatches and then leave the room and come in again. That first impression is pretty telling.

CONSTRUCTION DETAILS Modifying the construction details on a piece of furniture even in a subtle way can have great effects. For example, changing the tufting pattern or size of the buttons can make a piece more modern. Here are some other construction details to consider modifying:

Pillow construction – I love changing two cushions on a loveseat into one long seat cushion. The single cushion look is cleaner and more modern. Wider tufting – Tufting details are great but a lot of times they are too close together and too small. Consider opening the spacing a bit and creating larger channeling in between the buttons. Integrated cushions – They’re not always necessary but changing a seat cushion to be fully integrated into the chair (not removable) can create a streamlined and clean look. Remove that skirt! I’m not 100% anti-skirt but fringe is more fun and showing your legs off can be cute too.

PAINT This is a detail that is hemmed and hawed over a lot and deserves it’s own blog post. (soon to come!) Painting a piece can radically change the look and create something uber special.

Choose a tonal paint color that goes back to the upholstery for a chic and sophisticated look. Gloss, gloss, gloss creates that rock candy effect and is very glamorous and fun. Matte finishes are nice for a more natural and raw look. Go bold or go home. On an accent piece have a little fun and push the boundaries.