August 1, 2018 /

My Five Favorite Ways to Mix Old and New in a Fall-Holidays Living Room

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Hello, lovelies! Can you believe how quickly August crept up on us? It feels like we blinked, and now it’s time for another round of My Five Favorites with my wonderful friends Pam at Simple Details, Jennifer at Dimples & Tangles, and Kris at Driven by Decor! This month, we’re thrilled to welcome our guest host, Melaine from My Sweet Savannah (in fact when I first started blogging I won a Lisa Leonard necklace giveaway on Melaine’s blog that has my kids’ initials on it, and to this day I adore it and wear it all the time). . If you haven’t checked out Melaine’s stunning lakeside home or her incredible One Room Challenge bathroom makeover, you’re missing out!

Today, we’re diving into the art of blending old and new to create timeless, curated spaces perfect for cozying up during the fall holidays. As someone who’s spent years replacing the dated ‘80s decor in my home, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for incorporating items with a touch of patina. Whether it’s a treasured heirloom or a vintage find, these elements bring a sense of warmth and authenticity that’s perfect for the season. Let’s explore five ways to seamlessly mix old and new for a collected and inviting fall-holidays living room.

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1. Incorporate Heirloom Pieces

Fall is a time to celebrate family and traditions, so why not use those sentimental treasures tucked away in storage? Delicate crystal vases, passed-down china, or vintage glassware can instantly elevate your living room. For example, I’ve repurposed an old Murano glass pitcher that belonged to my husband’s great aunt and uncle. Once hidden away for fear of breaking it, this beautiful piece now serves as a centerpiece on my  Easter table, adding sparkle and history to the room.

Pair these heirloom items with modern accessories for a balanced look. A crystal vase on an acrylic tray or antique candlesticks paired with contemporary decor pieces can create a harmonious mix. Don’t let your special pieces gather dust they’re meant to be loved and used!


2. Decorate with Vintage Maps

Old maps are a fantastic way to add character and a sense of nostalgia to your fall-holidays living room. My in-laws gifted me a collection of nautical charts from their boating days on Cape Cod, which I’ve repurposed as wall art. One map of Boston Harbor, cut and framed, now adorns the walls of our bathroom, while a more weathered map of Martha’s Vineyard enhances the back of our bar cabinet.

For your living room, consider framing vintage maps of places with special meaning to your family. They make excellent conversation starters and bring a subtle historical charm that pairs beautifully with modern furnishings. You can find authentic vintage maps on eBay or purchase reproductions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The charts are neutral in color and rather quiet but I love how they compliment the Kelly Witmer print and all the newness of this space. You can see one half of it reflected in the oyster shell mirror.


3. Mix Old and New Furniture

Even if your budget allows for all-new furniture, incorporating one or two vintage pieces can add depth and personality to your living room. For instance, I found a charming vintage rattan side table that perfectly complements my new armchairs. Similarly, our dining table a limed oak piece with a storied past anchors our living space and serves as a daily gathering spot for meals, projects, and celebrations.

Old furniture often makes excellent candidates for DIY makeovers. A thrifted bedside table, for example, was transformed with a fresh coat of paint and a hot pink drawer interior. The result? A one-of-a-kind piece that seamlessly blends with contemporary decor.

Limed oak dining table and thrifted cane chairs.


4. Layer with Vintage Linens

There’s something magical about vintage textiles during the fall holidays. Whether it’s a lace tablecloth, embroidered napkins, or handwoven throws, these pieces add softness and history to your living room. One of my favorite projects was repurposing a vintage Irish linen tablecloth—damaged by moths—into a custom headboard cover for my daughter’s room.

In your living room, you can use vintage tablecloths as sofa throws or runners for a rustic coffee table. If they’re too worn for display, consider turning them into decorative pillows or cloth napkins for your holiday gatherings. The imperfections only add to their charm!


5. Display Old Photos

Old photographs are one of the most personal and heartwarming ways to blend the past with the present. For our fall-holidays living room, I created a gallery wall featuring black-and-white family photos alongside modern artwork. These images not only add a touch of nostalgia but also infuse the space with love and meaning. This photo above is from my parents’ wedding album that lives in our family room shelves – hands down the best old item I have in my possession!

One of my favorite photos is from my parents’ wedding album, which now resides on our built-in bookshelves. To preserve these treasures, I recommend retouching and reproducing them before framing. This ensures the originals remain safe while still allowing you to enjoy their beauty. For tips on how to retouch and frame old photos, check out this post.


Create a Fall-Holidays Atmosphere

As you incorporate these old and new elements, don’t forget to layer in seasonal touches to make your living room feel festive for the fall holidays. Add warm-toned throw blankets, textured pillows, and natural elements like pumpkins, gourds, or autumnal foliage. A combination of vintage and contemporary accessories can make your space feel both timeless and inviting.

For instance, mix a modern brass lamp with a vintage mirror on your mantel or pair a contemporary sofa with an antique coffee table adorned with seasonal decor. The juxtaposition of old and new creates a dynamic and cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for entertaining or relaxing during the holidays.


I hope these ideas inspire you to embrace the charm of mixing old and new in your fall-holidays living room. Whether you’re showcasing heirloom glassware, repurposing vintage linens, or framing old photos, these elements bring soul and character to your space. For more inspiration, be sure to visit my lovely friends Pam at Simple Details, Jennifer at Dimples & Tangles, Kris at Driven by Decor, and our guest host Melaine at My Sweet Savannah.

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, love, and beautifully blended decor!

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