Hipstoric Design: 5 Ways to Achieve This Look in Your Home
This year, the latest design trend prediction won’t be new but rather historical or “Hipstoric.” Maybe you’ve heard this buzzword lately, or perhaps you’ve never heard this term. Pinterest coined the term “Hipstoric” to refer to a historic, hip, and modern trend. Pinterest has a surplus of data from individuals, and they’ve collected all the search data from 2020 to 2022 and found that “Eclectic interior design vintage” increased by 850%, “mixing modern and antique furniture” up by 530%, and “maximalist décor vintage” by 350%! Numbers can’t lie; this data shows we are shifting into a new design trend that leans towards 20th-century design nostalgia and self-expression by mixing historic with modern eclectic design.
What might have caused the sudden design shift? Over the past few years, there has been a massive trend in Modern Farmhouse. I’m sure you’ve seen this all over stores, tv, and social media. Now the Boomers and Gen Xers are leaning towards eclectic décor with character by rejecting mass-produced designs, celebrating timeworn antiques, and re-imagining vintage pieces in their homes. This Hipstoric design trend also leans towards rustic furniture, bronze patina, woodsy hues, and traditional artwork—mixing with modern elements for an elevated look. So, if you have any vintage pieces, now is the time to update those — blend the old with the new! Want to give this latest design trend a go? We’ve created a list of five ways to seamlessly add this style to your home.
1. Rustic Additions
Whether it's wooden furniture with a timeworn charm or accessories reminiscent of yesteryears, every little addition contributes to the overall aesthetic. Rediscover the allure of wooden pieces as they make their grand comeback with this trend. Each element adds to the historic appeal, whether a set of kitchen cabinets or a vintage-looking rug. Experiment with smaller, artisan-crafted wooden pieces or accessories like antique vases or bowls to ease into the style.
The trend extends to darker, natural hues and leather furniture, enhancing the rustic appeal. Tapestries and other heirlooms serve as perfect elements to create a cozy and comfortable sanctuary. Opting for professionally framed or hung tapestries adds a touch of refinement.
The Hipstoric style brings back the warmth of medium to dark wood tones, creating more intimate, moodier environments. And nothing makes a statement better than a unique piece - a grand coffee table or an imposing bookshelf – serving as the perfect conversation starter.
2. Bronze and Brass
From light fixtures to cabinet knobs, there's an array of avenues for strategically introducing bronze or brass materials to your home. Bronze, particularly with a timeworn patina, is having a moment in interior design. You'll likely see this beautiful finish increasingly utilized in homes, bestowing an antique yet stylish appeal. To start, consider updating your light fixtures, cabinet fixtures, and faucets with bronze alternatives. Candle holders, bowls, or vases in bronze can also serve as charming accessories that blend seamlessly with the Hipstoric aesthetic.
Explore creating a patina finish on your bronze elements for a truly authentic feel. This process gives items a beautifully aged look, adding character and a unique touch to your decor. The beauty of this process is that it's reversible, so you can always change your mind later! However, caution is advised when applying a patina to electrical fixtures, such as light fittings, to avoid safety risks.
Incorporating bronze and brass into your home is about paying homage to the timeless design principles of the past while maintaining a contemporary flair. The Hipstoric design trend encourages us to celebrate history subtly yet meaningfully throughout our living spaces.
3. Classic Artwork
Framed in ornate gold or casually propped against a wall, classic art pieces are making a strong comeback, infusing our living spaces with an elegant, nostalgic charm. Art pieces that harken back to the 20th century is at the heart of the Hipstoric design trend. Strategically placing these artworks throughout your home creates an atmosphere of comfort and nostalgia, echoing the environments many Boomers and Gen Xers grew up in. These traditional pieces often become conversational, subtly narrating the story of times gone by.
In addition to the artwork itself, the manner of display adds another layer to the overall design. Decorative gold frames, often used for art or mirrors, are becoming increasingly popular. This frame style has stood the test of time, lending a touch of elegance to any space. Also enjoying a revival are ornate moldings, especially around architectural features like fireplaces. These elements further accentuate the historic appeal, blurring the lines between past and present in the most artistic way.
Incorporating traditional artwork is not just about aesthetics; it's also about evoking a sense of warmth, familiarity, and continuity. So, whether it's a family heirloom or a newly acquired piece, let traditional art play its part in your Hipstoric journey.
4. Statement Wallpaper
Deeply rooted in 20th-century design, wallpaper is a perfect tool for introducing "Hipstoric" style in your home. Its resurgence is undeniable, with an array of stylish designs and user-friendly application methods making it a popular choice for homeowners. Beyond color and pattern, wallpaper introduces texture, transforming a room without the fuss of paint.
A popular variant is the wallpaper border, a thin strip that edges a room, perfect for adding flair to bathrooms or powder rooms. The accessibility of interior design inspiration and DIY tactics through social media has fueled the comeback of such decor elements, encouraging creativity in décor.
Wallpaper is a versatile medium that allows personal style to shine through, from cheerful pastels for nurseries to moody florals for a chic aesthetic. If hesitant, start small, such as a powder room—a low-risk area that can handle bold designs. For a bigger statement, consider an accent wall in a living room or bedroom. Peel-and-stick wallpapers offer a trial period for those wary of commitment.
Maximalist prints are back, so don't shy away from bold colors and patterns. Classic stripes convey elegance and timelessness, while moody florals add drama. Using wallpaper in unexpected places, such as inside bookshelves or cabinetry, adds a personal touch. Trends include biophilic and botanical designs, textured wallpapers, tropical prints, and mural-like statement walls. In Hipstoric design, expression is key, so go all out with your creativity!
5. Mixing Old With New
The final key to unlocking the "Hipstoric" design is artfully mixing the old and the new. Think of this approach as an elevated shabby chic, where you blend modern design with antique charm. The secret lies in finding the balance that suits your taste and lifestyle. A simple rule of thumb might be the 75:25 rule, where 75% of the decor reflects one era, and the remaining 25% accents it from another. This allows you to create a space with a unique character.
If you're new to blending eras, start small with accessories like pillows, vases, and mirrors before progressing to larger furniture pieces. This design approach is not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and economical. It reinvigorates vintage pieces with longevity and often leads to fantastic finds at a fraction of the price in consignment stores. And don’t forget the architectural details! Features like moldings can add a substantial dose of style and personality, elevating your space effortlessly.
The marriage of past and present, blending the familiar comfort of vintage design with the sleek sophistication of modern trends, is the heart and soul of Hipstoric design. Remember, it's about creating a space that resonates with your individuality, so don't be afraid to mix, match, and experiment!
In conclusion, the "Hipstoric" design trend is an innovative blend of past and present, a love letter to timeless style, and a nod to modern aesthetics. As we've explored, there are numerous ways to integrate this trend into your home. Still, most importantly, it's about curating a space that's uniquely you, offering warmth, personality, and a hint of nostalgia. The most significant aspect of Hipstoric design is its emphasis on self-expression and creativity. Whether you're a maximalist or an appreciator of subtle elegance, there's room for you in this trend. The stage is yours to experiment, mix, match, and create a space that echoes your style and resonates with your story.
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