As we start afresh this time of year we look to new goals, new ideas and motivations, and a purposeful path for ourselves. We usually begin with aspirations to enhance our lives, our homes and even improve our environment. Writing this column provides me with great pleasure and allows me to delight in our common passion for antiques, art and design. As new generations discover and embrace time worn objects of antiquity, I am thrilled to see new design philosophies still strongly embracing the old.
With today’s concerns about our environment and the legacy we leave for our children, antiques represent the benefits of inspired tradition, the renewal of spirit and purpose, and conservation of our resources. With a resolve to recycle the past, I would love to perhaps reflect on how antiques could bring an expression of beauty and an authenticity of style.
Since one of our stores is located in the Dallas Design District, and the other near New Orleans (an antique decorator’s heaven) ~ and also thanks to our website ~ we have been given the true privilege of working closely with many talented designers around the nation and worldwide. Many times in conversations with clients, the question comes up: “In order to repurpose antiques for today’s interiors, what are the trends in antiques for design?”
Of course, there are many different trends, but a few stand out from the rest. Directions in design, decorating and fashion sometimes change so quickly in the modern industry. In contrast, by utilizing and repurposing antiques you are using a classical design that creates a foundation that results in longer, centuries-tested staying power.
Romanticism ~
What started during the Renaissance never waned ~ evolving into the Baroque, then the Rococo style, each bringing more charm and allure and yet maintaining a captivating inspiration for the soul. Today we are still courting romance from timeless antique examples that continue to delight us.
Elegance ~
European elegance is another style that has never really been out of vogue. It has an enduring and endearing allure for countless generations of homeowners and designers alike. I personally have a weakness for 18th, 19th and early 20th century French and Italian elegant antique furniture, lighting and décor. I do have to say that these everlasting styles are here to stay as they continually “morph” themselves into our modern interiors.
Modern Country ~
Tuscan, Swedish Country or Country French Styles share the reverence of the past, and are rooted in 18th century craftsmanship. Each can celebrate the individual character of a home – mixing character and styles in an effortless way while blending formality and comfort. Each country style distinguishes itself in the details. It’s the antique furniture, patina, color palettes, antique accessories, and of course authentic art that speak volumes about putting your own personal stamp on a home.
Color ~
Blue – coming from antique flow blue, transferware, faience and cobalt blue – really never went out of style and is my favorite. I have been collecting blue and white porcelains for years and am glad to predict that Blue is making a strong comeback for 2014.
Grey and White – quiet and peaceful – create an almost inexplicable comfort when represented in
interiors since neutral colors possess such harmony. For all these reasons they are here to stay.
Green – the earthy color of nature – can be represented by antique confit and cachepots, green glass bonbonnes, landscape paintings, gorgeous antique tapestries with verdi gris tones ~ and of course antiques themselves ~ they are all so Green!
As I embark on new buying trips this year, I keep in mind our beliefs as a company and our design philosophy ~ that antiques are to be lived with, as well as appreciated. Their storied past lends an ambience to our homes and reclaims ancient materials to add authenticity even to new construction, which is a timeless benefit to design as well as nature itself.
This article originally appeared in Beverly Drive Magazine.
