Antiques have long captivated the imagination of collectors, but in recent years their popularity has surged as average consumers recognize the cost-effectiveness of used furniture. Additionally, there’s a growing appreciation for the sustainability of older pieces, with their selection functioning as a deliberate act of anti-consumption in design. Despite these positive aspects, some consumers are hesitant to invest in antiques for fear that they won’t look cohesive in a new build or modern home. However, this assumption couldn’t be further from reality.
In a world full of “millennial gray” and the ubiquitous house flipper neutral palette, the last several years have thankfully seen a return to richer, warmer interiors, even going so far as reactionary maximalism. Humans have an innate desire to surround themselves with beautiful objects, and making a focal point out of period or anachronistic pieces into home decor has been a fixture of high end interior design for generations. Modern homes can particularly benefit from the textural, color and cultural contrast offered by antique pieces, bringing timeless charm and character into clean, contemporary design. Blending vintage pieces with modern design elements can allow the right pieces to shine without making a space feel overwhelming. Here’s how to decorate your modern home with antiques:
Choose the Right Antiques
Whether you’re shopping for new-to-you pieces or inheriting family heirlooms, it’s important to select furniture for display that will complement your modern aesthetic. Consider your existing personal style and home decor and identify timeless pieces that will highlight, not detract from the energy of your home. Don’t discount the significance of scale, color and functionality when choosing antiques for your space. Richly finished wood with elegant detailing can bring warmth to a cool-toned, modern interior. Ornate gold frames look stunning on bright, jewel toned paint – which is why you’ll often see this combination on art gallery walls.
Be discerning – just because a piece is technically an antique doesn’t mean that it’s high quality, or that it will work in your space.
Well-made furniture is built to last for generations, but with very old objects, be careful to balance functionality with form. For a high traffic functional piece like a couch or other seating, newer vintage or modern might be a better choice.
Mixing Old and New: Finding Balance
Blending antique pieces with modern elements is easy with a thoughtful approach and a keen eye for balance. Start by selecting a cohesive color palette and sticking to a unified design theme throughout the space. Create a sense of intentional continuity to prevent the room from feeling disjointed. Pair a new but opulent, vintage-style sofa with a weathered antique coffee table to create visual interest and contrast. Similarly, incorporate vintage textiles or accessories into open concept spaces to add warmth and character.
To illustrate the concept of blending old and new, consider pairing antique dining chairs with a large modern table for a striking contrast. Alternatively, hang an oversized traditional painting (or print) in an ornate frame above a modern mantel or electric fireplace to create a visually arresting focal point.
Creating Focal Points with Antiques
Older or historic objects have a way of drawing the eye, especially as we become so used to the omnipresent refinement culture aesthetic of public spaces and designs. This gives us a lot opportunity for the incorporation of statement pieces in your home – vintage chandeliers and hanging lamps, architectural salvage and genuine antique rugs will immediately elevate your space into something truly unique and impressive.
Picture lights and gallery style display can soften the lighting in your space while drawing focus onto particularly treasured artwork. Try using these lights above genuine originals (cleverly thrifted if you’re feeling budget conscious) to bring out texture and shadows.
Cluster antique pieces together – minimalistic pieces might look disordered in an antique curio cabinet, while filling it with an interesting thrift store decor collection might look more cohesive.
Don’t be Afraid to Update Older Pieces
As we collectively recover from the horrifying milk paint trend of the 2010’s, there is some understandable anxiety surrounding amateur antique restoration or flipping. While of course we don’t want to see beautiful craftsmanship covered in thick coats of pastel paint and fake crystal hardware, making small repairs and tasteful restoration of less valuable pieces can make them sing in your space. Once you’ve done a bit of research into your purchase and you’re sure there’s no real historic value, you don’t need to feel guilty about making it work for you. Stripping, sanding and subtly refinishing or adding new, period-appropriate hardware is a respectful way to breathe new life into an inexpensive damaged object and make it work more seamlessly into your space.
Caring for Your Antiques
The minor dings and scratches suffered by antiques in a long lifetime of household service can be an integral part of their texture, history and charm. However, to ensure these treasures retain their beauty and value, it’s essential to implement proper maintenance and preservation techniques. When it comes to cleaning antiques, gentle and non-abrasive methods are key. Depending on the material and finish of the piece, methods may vary. For wood, use a soft cloth dampened with water or a mild wood cleaner to remove dust and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the delicate patina of the wood. For metal or brass accents, use a gentle metal polish and a soft cloth to restore shine without scratching the surface.
In addition to regular cleaning, protecting older furniture from potential damage is crucial for their longevity. Keep valuable antiques away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can fade wood finishes and upholstery fabrics over time. To ensure the longevity of antique pieces, it’s important to address any issues promptly. Inspect antiques regularly for signs of wear, such as loose joints or cracked finishes, and address them as needed. Consider consulting with a professional antique restorer for more extensive repairs or restoration work on valuable pieces, as amateur restoration and repairs can damage the value of some objects more than visual wear.
Incorporating antiques into modern home decor offers a unique opportunity to infuse modern spaces with character and history. By following proper cleaning, care, and maintenance techniques, homeowners can ensure that their antique treasures retain their beauty and value for years to come. Embracing the versatility and beauty of antiques in modern homes allows for endless possibilities and creative expression. So, why not invite the charm of the past into your living space and see how it transforms your home?
