We are often drawn today to antique pieces that show their age – rustic furniture with the refinement of a worn finish or the captivating appeal of artful gildings and patina. We see this glorious past intertwined with the present and the future in many of today’s designs.
Since early age I have been fortunate to be surrounded by glorious and beautiful antique objects that were loved and used in everyday life. In the past they became very special in the way pieces of vintage or antiquity will become no matter if you inherit them or acquire them over many years during your lifetime. However, if you are starting out a new home and have discovered the warmth that antiques bring to your life, I want to help you with making your very important first antique decorating decisions.
For the sense of history and uniqueness, you can’t beat antique furnishings! Placing at least one old piece per room adds a layer of visual interest and absolutely makes an interior come to life. The allure of vintage objects also is a way you can connect with treasured pieces of antique furniture. Antiques touch your very soul as they move into your home and become part of your life. Such objects have personality, which allows them to create an instant bond when placed in a setting, and in turn can also give your new abode a heart and soul.
When helping with a young couple’s first home, or working with their designer, we are often asked to recommend antique furnishings that are reflective of their personal style. This helps them to start creating an inviting space with a well-chosen initial item. A most important part of this process is to choose the right family-friendly statement vintage or antique piece or pieces for each room ~ be it an armoire to serve as entertainment center for the living room, a farm table for the kitchen, or a buffet for the dining room.
Your home can embody your personal style, and with the incorporation of important things that have authentic meaning, you can develop your special look, be it a modern European country or a French elegance. There is an authentic aspect that occurs in each room over time that is utterly charming, as each chosen style flourishes in the young couple’s home. As they continue their quest in the months and years to come, they capture the history of centuries of refinement and build their ever evolving and one-of-a-kind home – one antique element at a time.
The sense of history that permeates even young antique interiors is demonstrated in the ancestral heritage of its furnishings, and in today’s dwellings our antique furniture is of enduring quality. It has been beautifully constructed and well crafted with a permeating, evocative patina and warmth. More importantly, antiques are “perfectly imperfect”, ideal for use in a young household because they’re able to withstand decades of use while continuing to maintain their beauty and charm.
This article appears in Beverly Drive‘s April issue.
