You’ve lived in your home for years and one glance around it is all you need to know that it’s beyond time to update.  But don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater – there are vintage elements you may want to save.

In fact, notes a recent U.S. News & World Report article, “furniture and décor of yesteryear” are being used these days “as interesting and often colorful accents.”

Vintage elements are also a practical option, given the economic times. “With supply chain issues affecting the home industry, we’ve been turning to sourcing vintage furnishings and décor as there’s no lengthy lead time,” designer Mary Patton recently told the magazine. “It’s a trend we love as it’s very good for the environment – you’re reusing something in a unique way. Plus, it’s adding an interesting, casual vibe to the home.”

U.S. News notes that vintage elements can give your home a fresh look on a budget. For example, homeowners might:

• Repurpose modern art in vintage frames.

• Hang a vintage mirror.

• Replace hardware with vintage doorknobs and cabinet knobs.

• Decorate with a piece of vintage furniture.

Patton reports that vintage elements will “absolutely help” a seller attract buyers, especially, notes U.S. News, ‘if done sparingly and in a cool way that stands out from the sea of all-white houses.’”

Better yet, notes the magazine, vintage pieces won’t go out of style, so “you can take most of it with you to the next place, if you choose.”