Trendspotting: Heirloom

Heirloom takes its cue from the rich, complex colors of food and of the harvest.

Rich but timeworn tones like this peacock blue, luxurious, classic fabrics and imperfect finishes are signatures of the Heirloom trend.

Oxidized pewter plates hung on the wall with picture hooks look like they've been passed down through the ages. Incorporating heirloom objects and vintage collectibles into your design scheme is a great expression of the Heirloom trend.

Patchwork repair, patina, surface abrasion and rust and oxidation define the Heirloom trend. This distressed antique mirror and the tableaux of old books and burnished decorative accessories continue this idea.

Idiosyncratic collectibles like these quirky thrift store artworks hung in an eclectic salon style mixed with heritage pieces show the creative mix that defines Heirloom.

Heirloom is deeply inspired by the rich color palette of food like this merlot sorbet garnished with blueberries.

Tarnished brass objects form a witty, substantial vignette when arranged on a bookshelf in this instructive lesson in grouping collections.

A blend of vintage porcelain, a mix of materials and rich gold tones define this elegant tablescape.

This rich gray adds substance and depth to a Heirloom design scheme.

Expand your definition of what constitutes "art." A vintage scarf beautifully framed, makes a great focal point and is a wonderful way to incorporate a meaningful heritage item into an Heirloom design scheme.

The color of heritage flowers, of classic roses and peonies informs this soft Heirloom pink.

If you've got a collection of objects that don't fit on your bookshelves, consider displaying them front and center on your coffee table. Here, an assortment of brass objects adds luster and graphic shape to the seating area while also allowing the homeowner to showcase one-of-a-kind finds. Beloved, passed down objects are part of the Heirloom look, even if you sourced them at the flea market.

Luxurious materials like brass, copper, silver and pewter are part of the Heirloom emphasis on quality.

Don't have your grandmother's set of china passed down through the generations? Make do with an assortment of plates and glasses purchased new and picked up at antique sales, as long as they’re in the same color palette. Play up the color palette in flowers and fruit.

The reflective properties and classic look of crystal and mercury glass add a sense of drama and romance to the home. One extraordinary vintage light fixture or oversized antique mirror are instant ways to add a sense of drama and heritage to a room.

Oversized, gothic botanicals on moody backgrounds add drama to a room and a different, fresher dimension than the usual florals.

A softer shade of pink can help balance Heirloom's richer tones.

A contemporary, unframed artwork belnds beautifully with a vintage console and a curated assortment of objects in this brilliant mix of the new and the old.

Patinaed with use, care, and age, these types of brass fixtures are the kind of architectural detail that will lend authentic detail and character to any home.

Details count in Heirloom. The bronze nail heads seen on this leather and dark wood console brings a sense of craftsmanship and grandeur to this piece of furniture.

Beautiful place settings, tapestries, Oriental rugs, bone china and sterling silver lend gravity to your surroundings.

With its allusions to hunter's green, this classic shade brings a sense of history to any room.

A velvety, caramel brown could provide a rich backdrop to a Heirloom room.

The definition of luxury is enjoying it for yourself. This wonderfully appointed bedroom with its stunning blend of ruby and gold defines the Heirloom emphasis on rich patterns and jewel tones.

When used strategically, a rich ruby can add impact to a room.

Hanging romantic light fixtures over the sleek gray nightstands maximizes the surface space for a mirrored tray. The feminine bedroom mixes floral wallpaper with a tufted velvet headboard and pretty metallic fabrics. Both reflected light and the depth of red velvet give substance and style to this Heirloom bedroom.

Images of flowers and fauna with a dark, moody edge are a characteristic mark of Heirloom style.

Worn leather and burnished shades of brown are a distinct part of Heirloom style.

A nod to nature's color palette of vineyards and forests informs the Heirloom look.

Heirloom style means beautiful old world finishes like marble, subway tile, and brass fittings, but defined by contemporary tastes for spa-like finishes and amenities like this soaking tub.

Modern art sets the tone and makes a bold statement in this Heirloom living room defined by a classic foundation like a gray Chesterfield sofa paired with traditional moldings. Graphic-patterned pillows and gold accents infuse the space with youthful vibrancy.

White subway tile gives a timeless quality to this high-end bath.

One way to bring a fresh attitude to a traditional space? Contemporary art or photography.

Old world elements like this chinoiserie lamp and marble table, are beautiful illustrations of the Heirloom mix of old and new.

In many ways a tradtional room with a vintage chandelier, historic moldings and fixtures and restrained, elegant furnishings, this room's use of fresh, punchy color demonstrates how Heirloom can also marry the new and the old.

A dresser with classic lines gets a new lease on life with a rich, lacquered paint job and oversized brass numbers in the sort of mix of tradition-infused details with cheeky new flourishes that keeps Heirloom fresh.

This rich shade of purple evokes royalty and embodies the heritage of Heirloom.