Can you mix traditional and modern fixtures in the same room?

While fixtures provide essential equipment in a kitchen and bathroom, they also factor into the room’s overall design. When choosing faucets, drains, and tub kits, there are plenty of options—color, finish, style. Having options is great, but it also creates a dilemma when having to choose one.

On one hand, a room needs to look put together, but many individuals want to personalize the space. So what happens when the look of two very different design styles, like traditional and modern, appear to be quite appealing? Should a person be forced to choose just one or be able to mix elements from different styles?

This may be a surprising answer, but it is possible and acceptable to mix traditional and modern fixtures in the same room. In fact, it’s a great way to add interest and show off a sense of style. Great design is cohesive. The elements of color, texture, and space fit together in a way that’s visually appealing. It doesn’t have to be predictable.

Traditional and modern style: When opposites attract

Traditional and modern décor fall at opposite ends of the design spectrum. Tell-tale signs of traditional styles include elaborate shapes with elaborate detail similar to the look of crown molding. A fountain-style spout and warm shades of gold and brass are also classic features of this style. For instance, one can picture a kitchen in a Tuscan villa or a French cottage. It probably has traditional-style fixtures.

If traditional fixtures are ornate, modern fixtures are minimalistic. They typically come in cool chrome or black colors and feature clean, straight lines with an emphasis on function over form and angles over curves. These fixtures—like the Concord single-handle kitchen faucet or the Continental single-handle bathroom faucet—feel right at home in a Scandinavian home or urban loft apartment.

Tips for mixing traditional and modern fixtures

Homeowners who don’t know which to pick are in luck. Opposites attract, even for fixtures. There’s no need to choose one and ignore the other. The secret is learning how to blend them in a tasteful, yet interesting way. Here’s how to make them work.

1. Create a focal point in the room.

Every room has a focal point. This is the spot that immediately draws the attention of someone walking into a room. In the bathroom, this may be the vintage claw foot bathtub or the pair of pedestal sinks. In the kitchen, it’s likely the sturdy farmhouse sink or wall-mounted sink placed under a window.

Whatever the focal point is, it's the place where homeowners can really go bold with pairing. Imagine the look of a traditional tub or sink with a modern fixture that instantly updates it. The sleek look of the Aqua Eden round freestanding tub topped is an ideal base for a vintage-style clawfoot deck in bold matte black. It’s dramatic and nearly impossible to ignore. In the kitchen, add flair to a farmhouse sink by topping it with a widespread faucet in antique brass.

2. Avoid too much balance.

Too much of one type of design can feel overwhelming in the room, but so can too much balance. There’s no rule that says you need an equal number of pieces from each design style. In fact, that can quickly become just as boring as sticking with just one type of décor because they both feature more of the same around the room.

People do not typically install more than one faucet or spout in a kitchen or bathroom, so the balance in these rooms comes from the other pieces. Consider the rest of the room’s design, including light fixtures, cabinets, and doorknobs. For example, if these elements are already cool, minimalistic modern pieces, try adding traditional fixtures for the sink, tub, and shower.

3. Mix metals carefully.

When combining traditional and modern fixtures, choose finishes carefully. Those who prefer a more subdued look may opt for the same finish throughout the room. Think oil-rubbed bronze faucets, handles, and tub spouts. Sticking with the same type of metal and finish in the room can detract from the style variations in the fixtures.

For a more eclectic look, consider pairing contrasting metals like bright chrome with matte black or oil-rubbed bronze with brushed brass. When choosing contrasting metals, pay attention to their undertones. Oil rubbed bronze, brass, and gold add warmth to the room. Chrome, nickel, and black add a touch of coolness. As long as the undertones complement each other, the pieces blend beautifully in the room.

4. Try the 80/20 rule.

If it feels more comfortable following a formula, try the 80/20 rule. This means 80 percent of the pieces come from one style and 20 percent come from the other. In a bathroom with one toilet, two sinks, a combination shower and tub, and one light fixture, four of five of these pieces could be in one style. One or two of them could be another style.

For example, the modern pieces may be the Kaiser two-handle tub and shower faucet in oil-rubbed bronze. This pairs well with the Metropolitan centerset faucet in oil-rubbed brass or brushed nickel for the sinks. Adding light and toilet fixtures in a similar traditional style completes the look.

5. Remember the finishing touches.

No matter how a homeowner decides to mix traditional and modern styles, finishing touches complete the look. They add style, highlight the focal point, and tie together the different pieces around the room. Wall color, artwork, plants and storage containers also add interest to the space.

When choosing these pieces to add to the room, consider how they add symmetry. Take, for example, a pair of pedestal sinks topped with a modern faucet. By themselves, the sink and faucet may not stand out. A vintage-style mirror contrasts with the sink fixtures and can actually highlight the beauty of both pieces.

At Kingston Brass, you’ll discover an impressive variety of kitchen and bathroom fixtures in traditional and modern styles. Explore the selection of bathroom fixtures and start envisioning your trendy, yet relaxing oasis. As you browse, narrow your search to take a closer look at different finishes and styles to zero in on the ones that speak to you. The right style for your bathroom is the one that makes you feel at home.