New World vs Old World by Cheryl Draa
There is no better place to see the “Old World” than in France, where much of the architecture, and history can be traced well past 12 centuries. I visited Paris recently seeking inspiration from the past, and how that can be melded into the present. Figured there was no better place to start than Versailles, home to many of the King Louis’, Marie Antoinette, and Napoleon. I was amazed by the palace itself, the fabrics, the tapestries, all the marbles and gilded everything. Attention to detail was apparent everywhere I looked. And yet there were modern trends in place…mirrors and luscious fabrics to name a few. And then I turn the corner, and my eyes popped out as I saw a modern exhibit from the Japanese Anime plopped down in the middle of the rooms. The perfect juxtaposition of new world being introduced to the old. And it made me smile!
The key to the blend was the significance of each piece for the particular room. For instance, in the throne room, there is a large white shaped “doll” with a large crown on its head. In a room meant for the kings to receive visitors, there are round eyed animes standing around gawking…much like all the visitors gasping at them and the surroundings.
All was breathtaking and a great reminder to go ahead and blend that old with the new. How about using a new contemporary hardware piece on your old curtains? Or adding some mirrored or crystal finials to the same window you’ve had for ever. Look around…start changing your old world into a new world that makes you smile.