Design experts share how Best Holmes today mixes vintage characters, modern technology and timeless design options.
From today to today, 2010 is defined by a combination of old and new spaces that embrace both modern convenience and classic characters. Seamlessly mixing clean lines with smart home features with landfilled wood, exposed ceiling beams and vintage furniture. It’s a decade (and counting) where sustainability, comfort and personality all coexist.
Whether you’re updating your Boston historic apartment or designing a new Austin home with a timeless twist, today’s home is all about balance. We asked design experts to share how to incorporate vintage-inspired touches, sustainable materials and subtle technology upgrades into our modern homes.
1. Pair classic details with a modern twist
“I love the way 2010s designs boldly blend old and new. There’s a timeless look at the pairing of classic crown moldings and vintage lighting fixtures with clean, modern furniture and Smart Tech,” says CrownTV’s Alex Taylor. “One of my favorite twists is using recycled wood in unexpected places like beams in refined kitchen ceilings and floating vanity in minimalist bathrooms. I’m still obsessed with matte black hardware. These modern styles don’t fight tradition.
2. Blend smart home innovation with timeless charm
“One of my favorites from the 2010s is the seamless blend of modern innovation and timeless characters.” Rebecca of Rebecca Lauren Interiors said, “I love mixing smart home technology with classic touches such as regenerated wood beams and vintage-inspired lighting. It’s where old souls meet the new world. And advanced.”
3. Design focuses on connection, comfort and personal style
“My favorite part of home design from 2010 to today is how our space evolves to focus on people, share food and spend time with what we enjoy most.”
Our home has also become multifunctional. It doubles as a record lounge or as a night hub for games, while the rooms serve as home offices and craft spaces. We design it away from the needs of a not-large, not bigger, and oversized home. Personal tastes encourage design decisions more than ever, whether you mix heirloom furniture with modern pieces or rely on modern Japanese or California styles. Finishes such as natural stones, refined forests, and custom touches meet beautiful lines and airy layouts, creating a new balance with the old ones. ”
4. Embracing your personality with bolder, transitional designs
“What I like about the evolution of design from the 2010s to the past is the marriage to what is called the “transition” style of modern and traditional,” says Farrah Brittany, the agency’s founder/agent. “I don’t love the term, but I feel it’s a bit more common and overused, but it’s common to classify properties as something like modern Spanish or modern traditions (sounds ironic).”
Farrah continues. “I am particularly drawn to the use of organic stones that were once considered purely modern, as if they weren’t purely modern. Oatmeal-colored white oak floors are used to seeing them in our feeds.
5. Combine classic details with modern innovation
Margaret Defazio of the Defazio Flanagan team said, “One aspect I particularly love is not only celebrating our architectural heritage, but also celebrating modern innovation, but also adding both warmth and character by integrating wooden beams regenerated within minimalist spaces.
My favorite element of this era must be a smart integration of classic design details, such as rated ceilings and herringbone floors, when paired with modern materials, when creating a timeless but current look. When mixed with traditional interiors, these contemporary styles offer a layered richness that speaks to both the past and present, creating a space that is not only functional, but also deeply personal and attractive. ”
6. Keep open layouts and white walls related to thoughtful details
“Open Concept Living, held in the 2010s, celebrates flexibility and flow. It gives one space to offer many features through thoughtful design elements such as rugs, lighting and furniture arrangement,” says Angele of Ikorodu Interiors. “It also invites more natural light and a stronger connection to the outdoors. It pairs it with a bright white interior that offers a gentle and versatile background, with a timeless combo. The white walls create space for texture, color and personal touches.
