Hipstoric.
It is a fusion between hip and historic.
It is a home décor style that is becoming more and more popular and with good reason!
Hipstoric style can be described as eclectic interior design that mixes modern and antique furniture. Think of antique room aesthetic mixed with layered modern pieces. Think of antique windows repurposed as art on a wall alongside modern art. Think of a combination of maximalist decor with a vintage touch.
The style has an incredible amount of punch, and it can certainly make a statement, but if you don’t have money to splurge, it can seem unattainable.
I was interested in this style because it can be easily achieved in an older home, like a Victorian, for example. If your home already has lots of original architectural design features, like ceiling medallions, wainscoting, molding, and millwork, you can certainly lean into that, accentuate those elements, and layer in some modern features.
Our home is not Victorian, but it was built in the 1940s, so there are ways we can lean into the home’s age. Still thinking about that . . .
But even if you live in a newer home, you can still achieve this hipstoric home décor style on a budget by incorporating lots of vintage pieces you’ve inherited or found on Facebook Marketplace, local estate sales, or thrift stores. Then you can layer in the right amount of modern color, furniture, or accessories for that hip style that is still historic and full of soul.
Here are some budget-friendly tips I’ve found about hipstoric décor style that can add so much depth to your home for a curated feel, even if you only just moved in and started decorating.
What is a “hipstoric” home and how do you achieve the look?
In interior design, the “hipstoric” style is a mix of vintage and modern elements.
Designer Alaina Michelle Ralph suggests a mix of 75% vintage and 25% modern pieces but encourages experimentation to find the right balance. She also emphasizes the importance of having an idealized floor plan before shopping for furniture, as scale is a crucial factor when selecting different pieces.
To achieve this look, start with small accessories such as cushions, vases, ornaments, and mirrors, which are easy to mix and match and can be swapped out between rooms. For example, chairs are great for this, as they come in different styles and scales.
Art is another way to incorporate vintage pieces into a modern home, and vintage art can be more affordable than modern art.
Color is a great way to give an old piece new life and make it “hip,” and upholstering vintage furniture in unexpected fabrics can also create a unique look.
Layering different patterns and textures can combine old and new elements, but balance is key to avoid a cluttered or unkempt appearance. These are general tips to start thinking about how to achieve a “hipstoric” style in your home that is both modern and timeless.
But let’s get into the reality of the situation.
Money.
Trying to achieve a certain style can be expensive, especially if the home décor style is a modern look mixed with cherished antiques. I’ve done some research, and I’ve found methods to achieve this look on a budget.
Tips to Achieve Hipstoric Style on a Budget
Free Historic Art Sources
Art enthusiasts now have easy access to historic and classic art pieces from museum websites, with many of them offering free art prints.
This initiative is part of museums’ efforts to make art accessible to everyone. These prints can be downloaded, printed, and framed at home, providing an opportunity for individuals to have a piece of art history on their walls. The availability of these prints has been particularly beneficial to those who may not have access to art galleries and museums.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is one such institution that offers free art prints. Their collection is extensive, and the prints available range from classic paintings to ancient sculptures. The museum’s website features a “Public Domain Artworks” section that allows users to filter their search based on the type of art, artist, and era. The selection includes works by Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Johannes Vermeer, among others. The museum also provides information about each artwork, including its history and significance, giving art enthusiasts a deeper understanding of the pieces they download.
The National Gallery in London is another museum that provides free art prints. Their collection features classic works by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, among others. The museum’s website has a “Download Art” section where users can search for prints based on the artist’s name, artwork title, and theme. The National Gallery also provides information about each piece, including its history and significance, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in art history.
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is yet another institution that offers free art prints. Their collection includes works by American artists such as Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Winslow Homer. The museum’s website features a “Public Domain Artworks” section where users can download and print high-resolution images of their favorite pieces. The museum also provides information about each piece, including its history and significance, making it an excellent resource for art enthusiasts.
Of course, I couldn’t leave out Chicago’s amazing Art Institute! Check out their free art HERE.
Affordable Historic Architectural Pieces
For homeowners and design enthusiasts looking to incorporate historic, classic, and vintage architectural elements into their homes, affordable options are available through architectural salvage. Architectural salvage is the process of reclaiming and reusing old building materials, including doors, windows, hardware, lighting fixtures, and more. These pieces add character and charm to homes and buildings and can be more affordable than new construction materials. Here are some tips and tricks to finding the most affordable architectural salvage.
Firstly, it’s important to do your research and know what you’re looking for. Make a list of the specific pieces you need, including dimensions, materials, and style. This will help you narrow down your search and avoid overspending on items you don’t need.
One way to find affordable architectural salvage is to check out salvage yards and architectural salvage companies. These businesses specialize in reclaiming old building materials and often have a wide selection of historic and vintage pieces. Salvage yards can be especially helpful for finding stained-glass windows, as they often have a large inventory of these unique items.
Another option is to attend estate sales, garage sales, and auctions. These events can yield some fantastic finds, including antique hardware, lighting fixtures, and doors. Keep an eye out for items that may have been overlooked by other shoppers, such as vintage doorknobs or hinges.
Online marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy, and Craigslist can also be great resources for finding affordable architectural salvage. Be sure to thoroughly read product descriptions and view photos before making a purchase, and don’t be afraid to negotiate with sellers for a better price.
Finally, consider reaching out to local preservation organizations or historical societies. These groups may have resources for finding architectural salvage and can provide guidance on how to incorporate historic and classic elements into your home.
Affordable Modern Art Sources
Finding affordable modern art can be a great way to add a hip and trendy touch to your home decor without breaking the bank. Here are some tips and tricks for finding affordable modern art that is current and on-trend.
Right off the bat, if you haven’t yet scoured Etsy for modern art downloads, you are really missing out. You can find beautiful abstract, modern, trendy, and hip art for a few dollars.
For example, Chaos and Wonder Design are an amazing source for hispstoric art that already mash up historic art with modern and hip touches.
One of the best ways to find affordable modern art is to check out local art fairs and exhibitions. These events often feature up-and-coming artists who are looking to sell their work at a reasonable price. Attending these events is a great way to discover new talent and add a unique piece to your collection.
Another option is to explore online marketplaces such as Saatchi Art and Artsy. These platforms feature a wide range of modern art from emerging and established artists, making it easy to find pieces that fit your style and budget. Additionally, many online marketplaces offer payment plans, which can make purchasing art more affordable and accessible. Keep in mind, this is original art, so the prices are pretty hefty.
Social media can also be a great resource for finding affordable modern art. Many artists use platforms like Instagram to showcase their work and connect with potential buyers. By following hashtags such as #affordableart or #emergingartist, you can discover new artists and stay up-to-date on current trends in the modern art world.
Finally, consider visiting local art schools or universities. These institutions often have student art sales, where you can find affordable pieces from up-and-coming artists. This is a great way to support young talent and add a unique and modern piece to your collection.
Hipstoric Style Home Inspiration on YouTube & Pinterest
Finally, I want to share some eye candy and inspiration about the hipstoric home décor style that has been achieved on a budget that I’ve found online. While no one in these examples has used the term “hipstoric,” the syle is definitely obvious, and the results are amazing!
Let’s dig in . . .
First up is a home tour I found on Pinterest, from The Everygirl: “The Everygirl Co-founder’s Modern Chicago Home.” See a link to the full tour HERE.
What I love about this space is the subtle hipstoric touches.
The space is basically neutral and easy-on-the-eyes with a calming vibe. The exposed brick is classic Chicago, along with the original wood floors. In addition, there are some amazing vintage touches, like a black cast-iron tub along with classic black-and-white checked floor tile in the bathroom.
Fused with these historic elements are modern pieces. For example in the image below, you can see a modern light fixture in the living area, as well as more updated seating in the dining room. Check out budget light fixtures HERE!
The pairing is a perfect combination for hipstoric décor.
Next, is one of my all-time favorite small space home tours from YouTube.
Imani Keal, the content creator of Imani at Home, has given her 45sqm rental studio apartment a colorful makeover. She has achieved this by carefully selecting a mix of second-hand furniture and family heirlooms.
Keal’s studio originally had a separate kitchen and dining area, which she liked. However, she wanted to create a clear separation between the living and bedroom area. To do this, she painted the bedroom black and added a high rail Ikea bed, which also doubles as a laundry drying rack.
The dining room is decorated with peel-and-stick wallpaper featuring a Scalamandre print, and it includes sentimental pieces such as her grandmother’s china cabinet and her grandfather’s framed cane. I absolutely adore how she used her grandparent’s personal possessions as art, and it is the epitome of hipstoric style on a budget, as the pieces are displayed against peel-and-stick modern wallpaper. Gorgeous!
Keal painted the kitchen pink and used contact paper from Amazon to create a marble effect.
The bathroom has two different wallpaper patterns, with a Scalamandre peel-and-stick print on the top half and beadboard on the bottom half painted in a dark brown color.
Keal is now helping others make their rental spaces feel special by providing tips for rental DIY and negotiation on her blog, Imani at Home.
Back on Pinterest, I found an absolutely stunning hipstoric home. Mind you, it is definitely leaning more toward historic, but there are some amazing hip elements here, as seen in the lighting in the image above of the primary bedroom. The modern bedding is set in a charming historic room, with plenty of antique pieces like the bench and baskets.
Another YouTube tour is from Whitney Giancoli, an interior stylist, who resides on the 5th floor of a charming brownstone in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood.
Her apartment is brimming with character and original details from the early 1900s. In the video, Giancoli shares her decorating approach, which involves incorporating vintage finds and art sourced from Etsy (budget!). She also showcases her large terrace, where she and her spouse often host dinner parties.
What are your go-to sources for hipstoric home decor pieces? How do you achieve this statement style on a budget? Let me know in the comments!
Make sure to check out my Pinterest board, where I have many hipstoric home tours pinned for more inspiration!