So — here’s the compatibility issue: Your house has mostly modern/minimalist elements, and you like things simple & sophisticated, too … but there are a couple of different directions modern style can go, and it’s confusing you.

A style like Sleek Sophisticate — which employs contemporary furnishings mixed with the best of vintage modern — can address both these directions.

First, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you prefer curves or squared silhouettes?
• Do you prefer a more “formal” or more “casual” feel?

Based upon your answers, try the following:

1. Make sure that most of your major upholstery have silhouettes that are consistent. If you like curves, make sure that the arms have slopes. If you like squared, make sure they have squared arms. Upholstery bases can have block or metal legs, or bases built to the floor.
2. If you prefer a more formal aesthetic, bring in pieces with a little shine. Metallics like nickel and brass. Fabrics with a soft, sophisticated hand like wool, velvet, tightly-woven linen, and satin. Wood finishes that glow with a subtle sheen.
3. If you prefer a more casual aesthetic, use pieces in matte finishes. Metallics in matte black, bronze, or pewter. More textural fabrics like nubby weaves, chenilles, and chunky linen. Wood finishes that show the grain or are rougher-hewn.
4. Approach your furniture as you would sculpture — it’s all about highlighting the shape! Curating vintage pieces will help you create that one-of-a-kind collection.
5. Keep your fabric patterns still & quiet, with a mix of solids and tone-on-tone subtlety. Let your art do the talking!