Decorating with Antiques

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Decorating with Antiques

Decorating with Antiques adds warmth and coziness to any space in your home. Furthermore, antiques also give a space a unique charm that tells a story.

If you have been following me for a while now, you know that I love Decorating with Antiques and have a love for them. I have always been intrigued by the charm and history of antiques. Maybe it’s the stories behind them, but adding them to my home creates a sense of nostalgia.

Sometimes, I browse an antique store and find something that speaks to me, and I have to have it. Most of the time, I am very intentional when I am antiquing.

Updated October 29, 2024

But, still, if I have found something unique and beautiful, I know it would be perfect in my home. But then there are times I will see something that I think is neat or interesting and stand there looking at the antique, thinking, where can I display this? Where can it go? I am sure I am not the only one who has done this.

Why Decorate with Antiques?

Decorating with antiques can be an exciting journey filled with discovery and inspiration. By blending the past with the present, you’re crafting a home that reflects history, personality, and timeless style.

Antiques connect you to history and craftsmanship that modern items sometimes lack. Whether a charming dresser or a statement mirror, these pieces add depth and character to any space, making your home uniquely yours.

Each piece often has a story, making your space feel more curated and personalized. Decorating with antiques also brings an eco-friendly aspect, as you’re repurposing beautiful items that have stood the test of time.

Know your Antiques

It is important to know what you have. Whether you keep a list of each item or have a memory, you may want to have it insured. Some antiques may also need to be appraised for insurance purposes. Contact your insurance agent if you are unsure if the antique you have on hand is worth getting insured.

Mix the old with the new

By adding antiques to your home decor, you can add interest, whether it’s a family heirloom or an antique you found during your travels. There will surely be a story behind it.

I have inherited many family heirlooms that have been passed around my family. Placing them throughout my house makes them stand out more than being displayed in one room.

A Statement Piece

Do you have an antique that you just love and want to display? Then, make a statement by showcasing your home decor. However, you do not need to showcase every antique piece of furniture. Having it placed subtly is enough to add visual interest.

How to Decorate with Antiques

You want to focus on the piece itself, not its value. Will the antique work in your decor? Is it a piece that you find joy in or love?

I find that adding antiques for visual interest can work no matter what your decor style is. Mixing textures such as linens, wood, metal, lamps, and furniture pieces will add personality to any space in your home.

I find that adding antiques for visual interest can work no matter what your decor style is. Mixing textures such as linens, wood, metal, lamps, and furniture pieces will add personality to any space in your home.

While adding furniture pieces to maximize storage, it also adds warmth and charm. For example, an antique icebox in the living room serves as an end table and a liquor cabinet. Still, it is an antique & for intentional use.

Don’t limit the spaces in your home where you can add antiques. I have at least one antique in every room, whether it is a family heirloom or an antique I have purchased over the years. Decorating with Antiques is a beautiful way to give your home character and unique style.

Commonly Asked Questions

Where should I begin if I’m new to decorating with antiques?

Start small! Look for mirrors, picture frames, or side tables that can easily blend into your current style. Visiting local antique shops, estate sales, or online marketplaces can help you get a feel for what pieces resonate with your style without overwhelming your space or budget.

How do you combine different styles with Antiques?

Decorating with antiques is an easy way to mix with other Decorating styles. For instance, a magnifying glass is a visual statement and an excellent conversation piece when adding an antique.

Start with a neutral base and add one or two standout antique pieces. For instance, add an ornate antique mirror, a classic wooden coffee table, or vintage chairs if you have a contemporary living room. Mixing styles like this can create visual interest and make your space feel warm and inviting

How do I care for my antiques?

Most antiques require specific care to maintain their beauty. Dust regularly with a soft cloth, and avoid direct sunlight or harsh cleaning products, as these can damage the finish.

Wooden antiques can benefit from occasional conditioning with a product designed for antique wood, and for delicate fabrics, consulting a professional cleaner is often best.

How do you know if an item is an antique?

Antiques must be at least 100 years old to be considered antiques. Anything less than that is deemed vintage.

Authentic antiques often show signs of age, such as natural wear on handles, slight variations in wood grain, or patina on metals.

Look for joinery techniques, as real antiques typically won’t have nails or staples. If you’re uncertain, consult an appraiser or an antique expert to verify the authenticity of a significant piece.

What are some popular antique decor items?

Popular antique decor items include wooden furniture like dressers, armoires, and tables and smaller pieces like brass candlesticks, mirrors, clocks, and vintage textiles.

Architectural elements, such as antique doors or windows, can also be creatively repurposed in modern spaces.

How do I keep my space from looking too “old-fashioned”?

Pairing antiques with modern or minimalist pieces can keep your decor feeling fresh. For example, a vintage dresser in a room with sleek lines and contemporary art will stand out as a statement without making the room feel overly traditional.

Mixing textures, like pairing an antique wood table with metal or acrylic chairs, can also add a contemporary touch.

Where can I get Antiques?

Always check out your local thrift stores first. I have had luck a few times and scored some great items. If you fail, you can always go to your local antique shops, but more than likely, they are retail price unless you know what you are looking for and what the value is.

You may also have luck at estate sales and even online, such as on eBay. I have scored a few items from eBay for reasonable prices. The bottom line is always to be on the hunt. You never know what you are going to find.

Another tip I will share is if you have some antiques you want, create a list so that when you are out & about, you know exactly what to look for. When looking for antiques, I want them to have character and a story to tell.

Here is a bonus: I am sharing 8 design tips for decorating with antiques to help you get started!

8 Design Tips for Decorating with Antiques

1. Carefully curated so you don’t make the room dated.
2. Bring in antiques to lift a room.
3. Do not be afraid to mix decor styles with antiques.
4. Be careful about painting an antique; once painted, it is no longer an antique.
5. Regarding restoration, leave as much of the original piece intact as possible.
6. Re-upholstering antiques if needed.
7. Focus on the piece itself and not the value.
8. Use antiques as accent pieces for visual interest.

Final thoughts…

Decorating with antiques brings character and a unique charm to any space, blending the past with the present in a stylish and meaningful way. Whether you’re new to antique decor or looking for fresh ideas, here’s a guide to help you understand the best ways to incorporate these timeless treasures into your home.

If you want to follow along on our home restoration/renovation plans and all of our exciting antique & thrift finds, be sure to check out Linen and Wildflowers on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive updates.

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