One of the main differences between traditional and modern furniture is its materiality. Contemporary designs, which tend to be more streamlined in their approach, can lack the rich and idiosyncratic character of classic pieces. The key is to combine the two, playing with the contrast and finding a balance in a sleek and understated way. There are some basic rules of thumb. Classic pieces typically use a lot of wood and upholstery, which makes them heavy, durable and tactile—ideal for standout pieces and items you touch a lot, like a dining table. Then it’s a good idea to pair your classic table with chairs that are simpler, so they don’t battle each other. This story is from Kinfolk Issue Fifty-One Buy Now Related Stories Design Issue 51 John Pawson From the king of minimalism: “I find the essential and get the design down to a point where you can’t add or subtract from it.” Design Interiors Issue 51 Axel Vervoordt Inside the world of Axel Vervoordt. Design Issue 51 Inga Sempé “Minimalism is boring as hell, and on top of that, it’s preachy.” Design Issue 51 Halleroed Meet the giants of Swedish retail design. Design Issue 51 Andrew Trotter The architect and designer on renewing traditional architecture. Design Issue 51 Kim Lenschow The architect who wants to show you how your house works.
Design Issue 51 John Pawson From the king of minimalism: “I find the essential and get the design down to a point where you can’t add or subtract from it.”
