Design details that always catch my eye - Ribbed, Rippled, and Reeded

Here at Mostly Vintage, you’ll hear me say a lot that I let the souls of the pieces I source determine cohesion rather than a particular era. I’m not a purist - I believe that decor and furnishings from a range of styles, periods, and geographies can (and should!) live together in your home. 

After all, why do we love a sleek, contemporary loft filled with warm, mid-century wood and fabrics? An antique chair recovered in a modern geometric fabric? Or a vintage pastel paired with a deep, rich jewel tone (looking at you, dusty blue and burgundy)? 

The layering, the contrast, the dissonance… that’s exactly where the opportunity for interest opens up and YOU shine through.

But if you’re not relying on a style or era to define your space, how do you know what to look for?  

Welcome to the first in a series on the design details that always catch my eye. The elements and materials that make me pause, take a second look, and want to bring an item into my home or the shop for the special qualities they lend to a space.

First up, we’re getting wavy! 

Whether it’s rippled glass, wrapped rattan, fluted wood, or undulating ceramics, these textures can always be relied upon to catch the light and lend a feeling of depth and stability regardless of the material.

In turn, that depth and stability helps to ground your space without reading as heavy. Highlights and shadows create linearity where a surface might otherwise fall flat - similar to, but much more subtle to the eye than, a stripe. And you can use those subtle lines to your advantage to draw the eye in new directions.

So, when I come across a rattan-wrapped lamp, a coiled bentwood basket, or vintage furniture with carved accents? You better believe I’m going to snag it for you. 

Stay tuned for more soon on The Journal.

XO,

Chloe