There’s a battle of the old and the new – and we love it. Finally, there’s some style and personality returning to interior decor. Yes, the ‘old’ style isn’t for everyone, but we love the trends that are coming from it.

2024 has been an incredible year for interior decor inspiration. But the question is, are you part of the old or the new crew?

Below, we’ll explore both of the trends and why people are so torn.

Return of Vintage

The return of vintage interior decor has been an amazing one.

There is something remarkably beautiful and pleasing about this decor. It is difficult not to notice the appealing finishes and nostalgic investments of old upholstery textiles. It brings style, class, and character that modern interior decor will never be able to compete with.

We can see why people love it – perhaps it is a simple appreciation of everyone, or more so, it is the warm colours of the mid-century modern chairs or even the beautiful materials of the Victorian collections.

There are so many hidden gems in second-hand shops, thrift shops, and antique stores that are just waiting for some restoration or display in their current condition.

What we will say, however, is that vintage is more intimidating to style.

People Still Want Ultra-Modern

You can’t go wrong with ultra-modern.

This trend will always be one of the most popular because it’s the easiest to style and it’s what most of the new-build houses come like. It’s your go-to if you don’t know what to do.

Most people want sleek and modern interiors, and that’s what the ultra-modern gives. Whether it’s sleek internal glass doors or clean, neutral, and minimalistic colours and patterns, the ultra-modern always feels ultra clean. For the physically minimalist, modern designs for structures over time have been about spatial volume devoid of cluttered interiors.

And to go even more ultra-modern, now you have smart devices, lighting systems operated verbally, and unidentified pieces of furniture that don’t make sense. This particular style suits all those who appreciate tidy surfaces, a lack of partitions, and an unobtrusive colour scheme in interior design.

Then There’s The People In-Between

We like the people in-between. They’re the people who don’t want to follow the crowd and go ultra-modern but also don’t want to be a bit too quirky and go too old-school.

We’ve seen houses where they mix antiques and contemporary art or where they sit in an elegantly designed house with all glass, massive windows and air conditioners from trusted brands, but a strong rustic wooden dining table. This in-between design respects the best of both the modern and vintage designs.

People in this group may not be suited to a specific type or style. Instead, they all want their home customised by using styles from various periods. People often call this design approach “flexible” or eclectic because it leaves room for imagination and change.

So, which category would you put yourself – the old or the new? The best thing about interior design is you can do anything you want. Whether you’re part of the old, new, or the in-between club, there’s always a way to make interior design unique to you.