Whether you’re a novice or an experienced collector, buying for yourself or on behalf of clients, here are our top 5 favourite ways to add character to your space with antiques.
To bring warmth and charm to any setting, you can’t go wrong with antiques. Unlike their mass-produced, modern counterparts, antiques bring with them a long history, excellent craftmanship and of course, a unique character.
Here are our five quick and easy ways to add character to your home using antiques:
Mix antique furniture with contemporary pieces
Many of today’s most stylish interiors are a wonderfully eclectic mix of antique and modern pieces. A sleek, contemporary settee paired with a Victorian side table or Victorian cabinet, for example, will add instant depth and interest to the setting. Flatpack furniture can’t hold a candle to antique furniture which will instantly become the focal point of a room, while its MDF counterpart quickly fades into the background.
Top tip – start on a smaller scale, with just one or maybe two statement pieces. Try an antique chair in the entrance hall or an antique desk or antique bookcase in the home office.
Antique mirrors create light and space
Antique mirrors transform a room in the blink of an eye, reflecting light back into the room to make the space feel larger, while adding a decorative charm to the surroundings. Whether you prefer ornate giltwood mirrors or simple Arts and Crafts mirrors, the dealers in our antique mirrors department have something for every type and style of interior. Antique mirrors have their own unique patina and signs of age that add character, which will never be matched by a modern equivalent.
Use vintage accessories to add personality
We understand that committing to large pieces can be daunting for the beginner collector so why not start with some antique accessories?
If you’re not ready to commit to larger pieces, antique accessories are a perfect starting point. Items such as antique clocks, antique brass candlesticks, antique ceramics, or even antique books, will immediately lift a mantelpiece, or occasional table. Decorative antiques are versatile – simply swap them around to freshen your look up without spending a fortune. To see how you can make antique accessories work for you, read Decorative antiques in modern homes.
At antique centres like Hemswell, where we are home to hundreds of dealers, we have a wide selection of smaller treasures at affordable prices.
Antique lighting creates ambience
The quickest and easiest way to create atmosphere in your home is with lighting, and antique lighting in particular brings beauty combined with functionality. From an Art Deco table lamp, to a Victorian oil lamp, or a mid-century chandelier, your choice of lighting can completely transform the feel of a room. A great talking point, antique lighting casts a warm glow and creates an inviting atmosphere.
Top tip - for safety, have your antique lighting professionally rewired and PAT tested prior to use.
Add charm with antique textiles
Antique rugs, tapestries and textiles add immediate texture to a room, adding colour and depth to your space. Layered antique quilts and throws combine with modern furniture to create a sense of history while an antique rug will elevate a modern dining table to new heights.
Discovering the perfect pieces at Hemswell Antique Centres
If you want to inject some character into your home, you don’t need a total makeover! Work with your existing décor to begin with, and start small – introduce antique accessories, lighting and textiles. At Hemswell Antique Centres, our 4 buildings are filled with inspiration from hundreds of dealers showcasing antique and vintage treasures. From small accessories to statement pieces, you are sure to find exactly what you need to transform your home.
