Curating Your Eclectic Space: Mixing Vintage With New

Vivienne Cookmeyer
May 3
2 min read

Have you ever walked into a space that just feels right, where every item feels meaningful, yet nothing seems out of place? Today’s blog is all about achieving that balance by curating spaces that reflect you, whether that’s in your home, your workspace, or even a vendor shop. We’re thrilled to dive into this topic with none other than Denise Dauterive, former owner of SparkleVita in Mandeville, Louisiana!

Denise has spent years perfecting the art of curation, both professionally and personally. As a longtime reseller and vintage enthusiast, she’s mastered the ability to blend nostalgia with modern flair to create spaces that feel vibrant, functional, and undeniably unique. From designing beautiful vendor booths at SparkleVita to transforming her home into a reflection of her eclectic style, Denise knows firsthand why thoughtful curation matters.

Why Does Curation Matter?

Whether you’re outfitting your living room or styling a vendor booth, curation is about more than just “decorating.” It’s about telling a story—your story. Each piece can serve as a representation of a memory, a passion, or a creative vision. For Denise, curating spaces isn’t simply about filling a room with beautiful things; it’s about creating an intentional atmosphere that sparks joy and reflects individuality.

Mixing Vintage With New

One of the biggest challenges when curating an eclectic space is finding harmony between vintage treasures and newer pieces. Denise believes in embracing imperfections and pairing timeless finds with modern design elements. The result? A space that feels both lived-in and inspiring. Think classic mid-century furniture balanced with contemporary artwork or antique décor complemented by sleek, modern lighting.

Key Tips:

Start with pieces you love: Build your space around your favorite items and let everything else complement those focal points.
Don’t be afraid to mix eras: Pairing vintage décor with modern accents keeps a space feeling lively but cohesive.
Be intentional with placement: Every item should have a purpose—whether it’s functional, sentimental, or simply brings you joy.
Curate over time: A well-designed space doesn’t happen overnight. Enjoy the process of collecting pieces that speak to you.