Welcome back to Ask Talie Jane! I’m Talie, your design insider, construction confidante, and all-around guide to creating spaces that truly work. Whether you’re reimagining your entire home or just refreshing a single room, this is your place for design tips, creative ideas, and a peek behind the curtain of how beautiful, functional spaces come to life.
Today’s question: How do I incorporate my existing furnishings into a new design? — Stacy P., South Lake Tahoe
Great question, Stacy and one we hear all the time! Most clients have pieces they love and want to keep, and the magic lies in blending those familiar favorites with new design elements. After all, a home shouldn’t just look beautiful, it should tell your story. Here are some examples.
Art That Speaks Volumes
Art and family photos are more than décor, they’re your memories on display. Whether it’s a travel-inspired gallery wall, a bold statement painting, or cherished black-and-white portraits, these pieces infuse heart and personality into your home. We often help clients curate frames, create balanced layouts, and integrate these treasures so they feel both intentional and cohesive.
Antiques with a Story
There’s something special about pieces with history, a grandmother’s sideboard, a vintage piano, or a well-loved clock. These heirlooms bring depth and authenticity to modern design. The key is balance: pair timeless antiques with fresh finishes or clean-lined furniture so they feel celebrated, not dated.
Furniture with a Fresh Look
Don’t overlook what you already have! A simple update can transform an old favorite. Think new upholstery for that beloved sofa, a refinished dining table, or a modern stain on a vintage dresser. The result? A refreshed piece that carries its memories forward with style.
Accessories That Tell Your Tale
Those collected sculptures, market finds, or travel souvenirs? They’re design gold. Mix them with contemporary accents for a layered, curated look that feels uniquely you.
Blending old and new isn’t just practical, it’s personal. When your home reflects both where you’ve been and where you’re headed, that’s when design truly shines. Have a design or construction question? Email me at Natalie@TalieJaneInteriors.com. Your topic might be featured in our next column!
Talie Jane is the Owner and Principal Designer of Talie Jane Interiors and Co-Owner of Talie Jane Construction, serving the Lake Tahoe and Napa/Sonoma regions.
