I’m known for masterful mixes of antiques and modern design in my interior design work. I love to create that balance of memories and history with the function and style we need in today’s living. Finding the right antiques, or understanding how to use the ones that you’ve inherited, can be problematic. So I have four pro tips for making the most of vintage pieces.

1. SENTIMENTAL VALUE

I always caution my clients to let go of the guilt when assessing what to keep and what to send to a new home. We all inherit items, and some we may not even want to have in our homes. That’s okay! Choose the pieces that mean something to you or that speak to you. The secretary above belonged to my uncle. I love its style, and I love the history of the piece and the memories that are woven into it. That’s what’s important.

2. Make a Statement

If you have a piece that is important or has a great style, let it stand alone. Give it the space to be the star of the show and let more modern items - like framed art - be supporting players. That also helps draw attention to the piece and gives it much more personality. Balancing modern art with antiques is one of my favorite tricks of the trade.

3. Remember Form and Function

I think antiques and vintage items shouldn’t always be treated like museum exhibits. The chairs in my Morningview project above are definitely antiques, but they are meant to be used as extra seating. So ensure that you have an expert examine and strengthen items so guests and family don’t have to worry about using your antiques.

4. Make Modern Updates

One of my favorite things to do is shop antique and vintage stores around the world. And I’m not afraid to add modern updates to what I find. For example, I found incredible lighting in Kensington antique shops for the London flat I designed above. But they needed modern wiring, so I found experts to handle that update. But I’ve also been known to add fresh lacquer to a vintage table or a more modern print to an antique chair. That helps update the looks for a fresher modern interior design.

Use these ideas to create a home that tells your personal story!

Warmly,

Beth