There are numerous decorating styles from modern, to traditional, to arts and crafts, to country, to ancient.  The two most opposing of these styles would be modern and ancient.  People tend to gravitate toward one style or another, and cross over into similar styles.  It is most rare however for a person to enjoy both modern and ancient styles at the same time.   

While it is difficult, you can create your own eclectic style by combining modern and ancient elements.  When you are combining such opposing styles, you need to coordinate by tying together items that are similar in color and materials.  

Since combining opposing styles can be tricky an even jarring to the sensibilities, keeping the same color scheme throughout your decorating and accessories will bring a calming effect to your overall design.  Likewise, look for finishes that are constant in both your modern and eclectic designs. 

This Antalya Metal Wall Vase set is an item that would go well into your ancient/modern design scheme.  It is inspired by items found in the ancient cities of Antalya on the Mediterranean coast of Southwest Turkey.  It has wrought iron scrolled details on top of a molded metal box for putting your ivy, plants, and other items.   

You can coordinate these ancient type accessories with a modern metal and leather sofa in tones of black and brown.  Wood and iron modern coffee tables would coordinate well with such an item as well.  In addition to coordinating these wall vases with modern décor, it will also go well with traditional, eclectic, and country décor as well. 

• November 2007