Classic & Contemporary: Finding Your Style by Mixing Both
What’s Your Style—Really?
If someone asked you to define your style, would you know what to say?
Most people don’t—and that’s completely normal.
Take a look around your home. You might see a mix of pieces collected over time—some inherited, some purchased, some loved, some… just there. And somewhere in that mix is your style, even if it’s not clearly defined yet.
At Out of the Box, one of the most exciting things we see is how different styles can live together—and actually make a space more interesting .
Classic vs. Contemporary: What’s the Difference?
Before you can mix styles, it helps to understand them.
Classic (Traditional) Design
Classic design leans into:
- Detailed craftsmanship
- Rich wood tones
- Ornate carvings and finishes
- Timeless silhouettes
Think warmth, history, and elegance.
A Victorian walnut chest with brass pulls or a carved mahogany console table are perfect examples—pieces that feel grounded and enduring.
Contemporary Design
Contemporary style is more streamlined.
It focuses on:
- Clean lines and minimal detailing
- Simplicity in form
- Neutral palettes or bold contrasts
- Function-first design
A tulip table with a marble top or ultra-suede slipper chairs with steel legs bring that modern, sculptural feel.
Why Mixing Styles Works
Here’s where it gets interesting.
Some of the most compelling spaces don’t choose one—they combine both.
Mixing styles:
- Adds depth and contrast
- Prevents a room from feeling flat
- Creates a more personal, collected look
- Allows flexibility as your taste evolves
A sleek modern table next to a vintage carved cabinet? That’s where design comes alive.
Statement Pieces That Define the Room
Start with one piece that anchors your space.
An extra-large walnut dining table with carved detailing creates a strong, traditional foundation—perfect for gatherings and everyday use.
Or a mid-century-inspired tulip table offers a clean, modern focal point that keeps the room feeling open and airy.
From there, you can layer in contrast.
Seating That Bridges the Gap
Seating is one of the easiest ways to mix styles.
A leather wingback chair with nailhead trim brings classic structure and comfort.
Pair it with contemporary slipper chairs in soft suede, and suddenly the room feels balanced—not too formal, not too minimal.
It’s about blending comfort with design.
Tables & Surfaces That Add Contrast
Smaller furniture pieces are perfect for layering styles.
A rotating brass and wood cocktail table adds vintage charm and functionality.
A marble-top console table introduces a refined surface with a more modern edge.
Even a sculptural stone table or pedestal can act as a bridge between eras.
Lighting That Pulls It All Together
Lighting is often the unifying element.
A 1970s-style floor lamp with chrome and globe details adds a modern, playful touch.
A more traditional chandelier or sconce brings warmth and familiarity.
Mixing lighting styles helps tie everything together without forcing the room into one category.
Rugs, Art & Finishing Touches
This is where your personality really comes through.
A geometric wool rug adds color and pattern.
Original artwork—whether traditional or abstract—anchors the space visually.
Mirrors, accent tables, and smaller décor pieces help layer the room and complete the look.
Just In: A Mix of Styles to Explore
This week’s arrivals showcase a wide range of both classic and contemporary pieces—designed to work together or stand on their own .
From carved wood furniture to modern lighting and seating, there’s no shortage of inspiration for creating a space that reflects your style.
How to Find Your Balance
If you’re not sure where to start:
Pick one dominant style
Add 1–2 contrasting pieces
Focus on materials (wood, metal, fabric)
Let the space evolve over time
You don’t need to define your style—you just need to discover it.
Why Mixing Styles Feels More Personal
The best homes don’t look like a catalog.
They feel lived in. Collected. Evolving.
Mixing classic and contemporary allows your space to:
- Reflect your personality
- Tell a story over time
- Stay flexible as trends change
It’s not about rules—it’s about creating something that feels right.
Visit Out of the Box
With thousands of square feet of inventory spanning multiple styles and eras, there’s always something new to explore.
Now open Tuesday – Sunday
New items arriving daily
Stop in and see how different styles can come together to create something uniquely yours.
FAQs: Mixing Classic & Contemporary Design
Can I mix traditional and modern furniture?
Yes—mixing styles creates depth and interest.
What’s the easiest way to start?
Choose one main style, then add contrasting pieces.
Will mixing styles look messy?
Not if you balance materials, colors, and scale.
What ties different styles together?
Repeating elements like color, texture, or shape.
Do I need to follow design rules?
No—the best spaces reflect personal taste, not strict guidelines.
