A house filled with treasures adds a special touch that can transform a room. Antique and vintage furniture can bring warmth, depth, and character to a space, making it unique and unattainable in a catalog or showroom. Designers often find inspiration in the personality vintage items bring, but going all-in on antique pieces is not necessary.
Interior designers suggest being selective with vintage upholstery, opting for newer pieces for larger furniture due to practical considerations like durability and ease of maintenance. However, incorporating antique side chairs or benches can still add charm to a room.
Experts advise that certain items are better off bought secondhand due to their charm and unique qualities. Hunting for one-of-a-kind decor at estate sales or antique stores can offer not only aesthetic appeal but also potential value appreciation over time.
Buying secondhand decor is beneficial for various reasons. Antique and vintage pieces are often of higher quality than new furnishings, with better construction and materials. They can be more cost-effective, as they tend to hold their value and appreciate over time. Additionally, opting for secondhand items can be a more sustainable choice for the environment.
Meet the experts:
– Jessica Lev: Owner of Jessica Lev Antiques in Houston, Texas
– Bria Hammel: CEO and creative director of Bria Hammel Interiors in Mendota Heights, Minnesota
– Laura Pankonien: Principal designer of The Pankonien Group in Austin, Texas
In conclusion, buying secondhand decor not only adds character and uniqueness to a space but also offers quality, affordability, and environmental benefits.
Buying pre-owned items is a smart choice. According to Hammel, recycling vintage and antique furniture is beneficial for the planet, as a lot of new furniture often ends up in landfills. When starting your antique collection, Lev recommends exploring local options to see vintage pieces in person and appreciate the imperfections that come with age. Hammel suggests looking in small towns for unique finds at better prices compared to larger cities. Building your antique knowledge through visits to local stores can help you identify styles and eras you like. Once you feel comfortable, online platforms like eBay and Etsy offer a wide range of antiques to explore. Before shopping, keep an open mind and pay attention to details like construction and period style. Unique vintage or antique pieces are worth considering for their collectible value. When it comes to decor items, thrift and antique shops can offer great finds at affordable prices. Items like vintage rugs and old books add character to any home.
Warmth and instant patina are added to bookshelves, creating a cozy atmosphere in any space.
Antique boxes are a favorite item among Lev’s clients. “They are perfect for styling on bookshelves, table tops, or coffee tables, and for concealing remotes and other clutter,” she says. Vintage baskets also work well for styling purposes.
Chests hold a unique antique appeal, according to Lev. “An antique chest or commode is one of the most versatile furniture pieces you can own,” she explains. “From an entryway to a hallway, living room, or bedroom, there is always a perfect spot for one.” These chests can store clothes, blankets, textiles, or any other items you wish to keep out of sight.
“Styling plates on a bookshelf or wall can introduce color into any space,” notes Lev. “I collect Chinese porcelain, and I’ve found that collections can make a home feel distinct and personal.” Additionally, these items can serve as great conversation starters.
When it comes to dining tables, Lev advises considering secondhand options to avoid breaking the budget. “Purchasing a new solid mahogany dining table can be quite expensive, but opting for a similar vintage or antique table can be not only more cost-effective but also higher in quality.”
“Footstools and small side tables, designed in the size of footstools, are ideal for upholstering with luxurious fabrics since only a small amount is needed,” says Pankonien. “The wood patina and shape instantly add character to your space. Finding a footstool already upholstered in a vintage fabric in good condition is even better!”
Pankonien suggests repurposing stand-alone dining chairs as side chairs to be placed in various locations, from kitchen corners to hallways or libraries.
Small original artworks, particularly those in antique frames, are highly sought after according to Pankonien. “They bring just the right patina to a space and are perfect for decorating small walls, console tables, bookshelves, or placed on a small easel in the kitchen,” she explains. “Even clients who aren’t avid fans of vintage décor tend to appreciate a charming antique artwork adorning a living room console.”
These decorating tips offer a blend of practicality, aesthetic appeal, and historical charm, providing unique touches to any living space.
