Embracing Antiques and Vintage Furniture in Interior Design: A Personal Perspective

When it comes to interior design, I’ve always championed the charm of antiques and vintage furniture, and if you’ve worked with me you’ll know I strongly believe they work in any space. Let’s delve into why….

The Lived-In Feel

One of the primary reasons is that I love the lived-in feel something old brings to a space. Unlike brand new items, antiques have a sense of history and character that cannot be replicated. Sometimes this means the actual patina of time with some dings and scratches, or perhaps it’s the feeling like things have been collected over time. They make a space feel warm and inviting. This lived-in ambiance is something I strive to create in every project. It’s about blending the old with the new to craft spaces that feel like they’ve been there for ever.

Layering Aesthetics

Another aspect that draws me to vintage furniture is the layered aesthetic they contribute to a room. This layered look is something I’m always striving for, and it’s a bit hard to quantify as it’s different on every project. Sometimes it’s good to break the formality of a room by introducing an off-beat element, and incorporating pieces from different eras can help do this. Layering also avoids the risk of a space feeling like a pastiche of a particular period or style. This mix-and-match approach not only enhances visual interest but also aims to emulate a personal journey of collecting items over the years. As a design history obsessive, I particularly enjoy seeing parallels with different eras (for example, how some arts and crafts furniture sits beautifully alongside modernist) and bringing this into play in projects gives me a lot of joy.

Sustainability and Preservation

Finally, the sustainability aspect of using vintage and antique furniture cannot be overlooked. In a world increasingly aware of environmental impacts, choosing to reuse and repurpose existing items is a best practice, keeping well-made furniture in circulation for longer. This mindful approach to design not only benefits the environment but also adds a meaningful layer to our living spaces.

My passion for using antiques and vintage furniture in interior designs is driven by the desire to create spaces that feel lived-in, layered, and sustainable. Each piece tells a story, adds character, and supports a more environmentally conscious way of living. If we work together, I’ll always be thinking of how best we can incorporate something old in a way that will make the project sing.

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