I think it's fair to say that modern interiors are much more relaxed and far more representative of our individual styles and personalities than they were 30-40 years ago when everybody followed the pack.
Gone are the days when everything had to match…. whether it was crockery, wallpaper, cushion covers or duvets and sheets – the pursuit of having everything perfectly paired was relentless, exhausting and, in the lovely soft light of modern living, all a little unnecessary.
And, with due deference to earlier trendsetters, I say good riddance to them.
But that does not mean we shouldn't elevate our interiors by including vintage, antique, recycled, or plain old second-hand pieces of furniture into our modern design themes.
Far from it.
In today's world, where we are all striving to reduce wastage, investing in a piece of preloved furniture is an absolute must.
Including a piece of vintage furniture in your home is nowhere near as daunting or complicated as it sounds.
By following a few simple guidelines, you'll be able to create a cohesive design that incorporates your treasured family heirloom or recently bought vintage piece effortlessly, giving a beautiful, stylish space for you and your family.
One of the wonderful things about investing in a piece of Vintage Furniture is it is likely to have been made of higher-quality materials (and craftsmanship) than its mass-produced counterpart.
This means that not only will your furniture last longer, but it will also add a touch of elegance to your home that no modern piece will be able to match.
Where to begin?
Well, start with the end in mind.
What is the room going to be used for?
How do you want it to feel?
What colours do you have in mind?
These are all essential questions to consider before you go any further.
Often, we build a design around one item, colour or theme.
Do you want to create a calming ambience or perhaps something more glamorous?
How about a coastal or French vibe?
You are limited only by your imagination.
But you can be sure; whatever you decide, you will find a piece of preloved furniture that, with a bit of creativity, and artistic flair, will result in a unique, "one-off" piece that reflects you, your style and your personality.
Just imagine, sitting quietly in the corner of your living space, a beautifully upcycled Nathan, Stag or Ercol sideboard in muted soft tones.
Or perhaps a cocktail cabinet from the 1920s that's had a glamorous but stylish makeover.
A tallboy, or chest of drawers, which has been artistically transformed, standing quietly elegant in your bedroom, giving you years of service and enjoyment.
Vintage furniture is, without doubt, the ideal solution for anyone looking to mix old with new, to bring a touch of classic design and craftsmanship into their homes.
Not only is it eco-friendly, sustainable and ethical, but it also brings a touch of the past into our everyday lives and elevates any room it graces.
Let's face it, we only have one earth, and her resources are most definitely finite, as we are reminded daily.
So, we must all play our part in protecting her because, after all, where else are we going to go? But after the weekly recycling, turning the power off when not needed and making sure we try to buy as locally as possible, what else can we do?
Well, one way is to start shopping Vintage. And however these pieces are labelled, be they "second hand", "antique", "retro", "preloved", "upcycled" or "vintage", they all have one thing in common: they are still completely useful, totally relevant and not only will you be getting a beautiful, well-made, high-quality piece; you're also investing in the future of the planet.
Join the Movement!
The Furniture Artists Collective is an inspiring community of independent creatives and skilled artisans united by their love for innovative and sustainable furniture and home decor.
We stand firmly behind businesses that share our core values and actively work to foster their growth within the industry.
Our mission is to shape the future of furniture and home decor by promoting eco-friendly practices and celebrating the beauty of sustainable design. Together, we breathe new life into cherished family heirlooms and vintage finds through the art of upcycling and restoration.
Be part of our inspiring journey and subscribe to our blog for the latest updates, trends, and stories that fuel creativity and sustainability in the world of home interiors.
Visit Our Directory of Artisans here... Connect with talented furniture artists near you, and support their passion for creating one-of-a-kind pieces.
Explore our Shop Page. Immerse yourself in a world of exquisite refinished furniture and artisan home decor - handcrafted with love.
Calling All Furniture Artists, Upcyclers, Designers, and Hand-made Home Decor Professionals!
Find out how you can collaborate with us and expand your creative horizons here...
Comments