Irina Shayk's anti-trend living room isn't what we expected, but we love the vintage-meets-modern look
The model juxtaposes old with new in her unexpectedly eclectic space – designers explain how we can master the look
One would be forgiven for believing Irina Shayk's home taps into the biggest interior trends of the moment – considering the model's trend-setting status in the fashion world. However, instead, the model's New York home draws unexpected inspiration from the past – and sets the standard for decorating with antiques in the present.
The internationally renowned model shared snapshots from her eclectic living room – where vintage treasures meet contemporary furnishings – and designers say it's a masterclass in timeless design.
'We love the combination and balance of styling antique, modern, and contemporary pieces together to create a sense that the interior has evolved over time,' says Albion Nord's creative director, Camilla Clarke. So, where should we begin? While Irina's space offers visual inspiration, Camilla explains how to master the look further.
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Firstly, when juxtaposing the old and the new, it's inevitable that the overall look will lack cohesion – but this is what makes it special. Rather than finding a seamless solution, Camilla encourages us to celebrate the contrast.
'When items aren’t deliberately offset from one another, it’s harder to find cohesion. The key is to ensure there is a stark contrast,' she says. 'There are many ways to achieve this, such as putting a contemporary piece of art in an antique gilt frame or placing a modern stool beneath an ornate antique writing desk. Pair of contemporary lamps on antique tables or, conversely, antique lamps on contemporary side tables work particularly well.'
Creative director at London-based interior design firm, Albion Nord, Camilla Clarke has worked at some of London’s leading interior design practices. Clarke uses her artistic background to influence her interior designs on everything from contemporary penthouses to Georgian homes.
Decorating with art, as Irina demonstrates above, is another way to get the look. However, while the model has chosen a traditional piece alongside her more modern furnishings – the alternate combination – using modern art and antique pieces is just as impactful.
'Contemporary art in a room predominantly filled with antiques will create contrast. Similarly, ornate masters-style artworks in modern rooms work beautifully.'
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As mentioned, incorporating antiques is one way to ensure our space transcends trends, and will likely remain a part of our homes for life. So, when shopping the look, Suzanne Duin, the founder of Maison Maison encourages us to only invest in pieces we're sure we love.
Located in the heart of Houston's River Oaks, Maison Maison is noted for beautiful lamps and antique pillows, French antiques and home accessories. Suzanne's residential design firm covers everything from remodels to ground up projects.
'When in doubt, invest in classic styles and remember only to buy items you love as you might be stuck with them,' Suzanne says. 'You cannot go wrong buying a five-drawer English chest, a walnut buffet, or a French Louis Philippe chest of drawers. And a walnut or mahogany buffet, whether marble-topped or not, is a classic piece that will always stand the test of time.'
'When placed in contemporary interiors, they create visual interest and a sense that the space has evolved over time.'
1stDibs is our first port of call when shopping for the most stylish vintage goods. We've listed some similar to Irina Shayk's below.
This set of four cherub wall lights in gilt bronze ormolu (circa 1880s) is a powerful way to follow in Irina Shayk's lead. They make a certain statement on any wall.
Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.
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