Exploring the Charm of New England Antique Modern: A Personal Perspective from Sterling and Maple Design House

What Is New England Antique Modern?

A fresh take on timeless design that honors the past while embracing the present

At Sterling and Maple Design House, we proudly offer design services that span a range of aesthetics—from clean contemporary to warm rustic and everything in between. But if there’s one style that feels closest to home for us, it’s something we’ve lovingly coined New England Antique Modern.

This isn’t just a trend or a fleeting aesthetic—it’s a design philosophy. One that’s rooted in our New England heritage, inspired by stories told through time-worn textures, and elevated with a clean, modern sensibility.

A Meeting of Eras: Past Meets Present

New England Antique Modern is the art of balance. It’s about celebrating the character and craftsmanship of traditional New England design—think antique chests, worn wood beams, and colonial silhouettes—while introducing fresh elements like minimalist lighting, streamlined furniture, and updated materials that feel completely current.

It’s not about recreating history, but rather letting it breathe within a space that’s built for today. We love mixing:

• Heirloom or vintage pieces with clean-lined, modern upholstery

• Aged patinas against crisp walls or polished stone

• Timeless architecture accented with contemporary art or lighting

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Why We Love It

Being based in Sterling, Massachusetts, we’re constantly surrounded by antique shops, colonial homes, stone walls, and rolling hills. Our environment naturally inspires a reverence for the old. But as designers, we’re also drawn to the functionality and aesthetic clarity of modern living.

New England Antique Modern lets us:

• Honor the beauty of imperfection (a weathered table, a handwoven rug)

• Celebrate simplicity and intention in form and function

• Ground a space in history while keeping it light, livable, and fresh

  
  

It’s Not About One Look—It’s About Feeling

Though we incorporate this style into many of our designs, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter aesthetics. Every client’s space is unique, and our job is to bring your vision to life—whether that leans traditional, modern, or somewhere in between.

But no matter the style, we often find ourselves drawn to elements of New England Antique Modern because it adds soul to a space. It tells a story. And it connects us—visually and emotionally—to both where we’ve come from and where we’re going.

Ready to Bring This Look Into Your Home?

Whether you’re working with a blank slate or trying to breathe new life into a historic home, we’d love to help. Our design team at Sterling and Maple Design House partners with Joshua Allen Design to offer full-service interiors, curated furnishings, and a design experience tailored just for you.

Come visit us in Sterling, MA or reach out to start your project. We’re always up for bringing more beauty, story, and intention into the spaces you call home.