Decorating Guides
10 Modern Spaces With Global Flair
Can artifacts from around the world live in harmony with modern lines? Travel through these rooms to find out
I've admired global style for many years. Sometimes I see this look referred to as "well traveled" or "tribal," but those aren't quite right. You don't have to go to another country to enjoy the artifacts it exports. I think this look can be achieved simply through an understanding of how to mix in globally inspired pieces.
My favorite kind of global mix has an unexpected splash of modern. Modern lines are straight and disciplined, whereas global details tend to be intricate and organic. As with most mixes, it is the sharp contrast between global details and modern details that makes them work together so well.
Rooms with a global modern look read like archaeological finds, telling a story. The key to a global modern mix is curating fine pieces and showcasing them in a noncluttered format. See how these great spaces have mastered it.
My favorite kind of global mix has an unexpected splash of modern. Modern lines are straight and disciplined, whereas global details tend to be intricate and organic. As with most mixes, it is the sharp contrast between global details and modern details that makes them work together so well.
Rooms with a global modern look read like archaeological finds, telling a story. The key to a global modern mix is curating fine pieces and showcasing them in a noncluttered format. See how these great spaces have mastered it.
The classic Saarinen Tulip Table and Chairs are sharply contrasted with Moroccan flair: rug, lighting and armoire. The mix of the organic profile of the table and chairs lightens the heavy ornamentation of the Moroccan pieces, softening the overall look.
A modern-style console displays African and Asian artifacts. Console tables are typically high and narrow. A wide-open space underneath allows for placement of smaller pieces for a layered look.
A light-filled living room with classic midcentury modern pieces gets its energy from a global-inspired black and cream rug. The colorful pillows on the two chairs add a touch of the unexpected and eclectic.
I love this neutral space with rich caramel tones. There are classic midcentury pieces, such as the Noguchi table and the Hans Wegner chair. African-inspired baskets bring pattern to the neutral palette.
Global details can be included in unexpected places. Asian-inspired hardware adds distinction to this refrigerator. Open shelves give further opportunity for interesting display; consider displaying a collection on similar ones, so it can be enjoyed every day.
The textures and patterns of these handwoven baskets add interest to an otherwise modern, minimalist breakfast nook.
Kids' spaces can sport a global modern vibe, too. A modern desk and chair are topped off by a Buddha-inspired tryptych. A spot of bright orange adds an instant modern splash.
This masculine, neutral space features modern lines and materials with a touch of global. Note the salvaged piece on the coffee table — mounting almost anything on a pedestal adds instant cachet. Consider an acrylic base with a global-inspired sculpture for contrast.
Materials themselves can be globally modern. Here, white countertops and Shaker-style doors mix with a rustic beamed ceiling and a great Persian runner. All of these elements are perfectly at home with the amenities of an updated kitchen.