As summer begins to fade and the nights draw in, our thoughts turn to creating warm and cosy interiors this autumn. From layering textures in the family room, to decorating your dining table, here we show you how to achieve the perfect cosy home with timeless antique pieces.
Why antique accents are perfect for creating warmth
By definition, antiques date back to a time when skilled craftspeople worked with quality materials to create pieces that would endure. It is the patina that comes with age, and the gentle wear and distinctive detailing that give depth and warmth to any room – perfect for this time of year.
Decorative antiques add seasonal warmth and ambience
This season, use antique pieces to balance comfort with elegance. The rich hues of antique brass alongside hand painted antique ceramics will complement an autumn colour palette, while rich wood vintage and antique side tables give a sense of permanence and authenticity.
The best antiques for creating warmth
There are many decorative antiques that the novice collector can easily assimilate into an existing room. Look for:
• Antique mirrors – A gilt mirror will reflect the season’s soft light, adding opulence and a sense of space.
• Vintage candlesticks – antique brass candlesticks or antique silver candlesticks on a fireplace are guaranteed to create instant atmosphere.
• Antique textiles – rugs, tapestries and textiles including woollen throws, embroidered cushions, or Persian rugs are the perfect way to introduce texture and warmth underfoot.
• Antique ceramics and antique glass – antique vases can be filled with seasonal foliage to create a stunning focal point.
Decorative antiques are a great way for renters or anyone not yet ready to commit to larger furniture pieces, as they can be moved around easily to switch up your interior each season.
Antique finishing touches for autumn styling
Antiques don’t have to be large pieces of furniture to make an impact, and there are many small antiques that will add the perfect finishing touch to your décor. Consider the following:
• Antique trays – a simple antique serving tray can be used to serve hot chocolate in front of the log burner or spiced tea after the fireworks.
• Vintage photo frames showcasing autumnal colours/prints or family photographs add a lovely, personal feel.
• Antique clocks – where space allows, an antique longcase clock will add a homely dimension to your interior while a gently ticking, antique mantel clock provides a sense of calm and tranquillity.
• Decorative boxes including sewing boxes and writing boxes in wood or lacquer add an extra layer to your décor, and are great for storage too.
The key to creating warmth and atmosphere is always layering – antique accents should be complemented by soft, atmospheric lighting, natural fibres (think wool, silk, and cotton) and a palette of deep burnt orange, rich green and opulent burgundy colours.
Mixing antiques with modern pieces
You don’t need to live in a period property to enjoy antiques. In fact, in our blog we have previously discussed How to use antique tables in a modern setting and How to decorate your home with vintage ceramics. The contrast between antique and modern elements can be mutually beneficial, with each complementing the other.
Creating a balance between antique and modern pieces give your antiques the space to shine without overpowering the room – particularly useful in contemporary homes with smaller proportions. This approach allows you to change your décor to suit the passing seasons, or to adapt to changing trends - antique furniture and accessories will hold their value without going out of style!
Top tips for creating warmth with antiques
Creating autumn warmth with antiques is about creating a space that feels layered, personal, and lived-in. Decorative antiques and antique finishing touches will instantly change the mood of a room to give you a haven from the autumnal chill outside. This season, let antiques bring history, beauty, and comfort into your home – and enjoy the timeless appeal they offer for many autumns to come. And, if you enjoy the spookiest autumn celebration, head to the blog to learn How to decorate your home for Halloween.
Finding the right antiques at Hemswell Antique Centres
At Hemswell Antique Centres, we are home to over 400 dealers, many of whom belong to professional bodies such as LAPADA and BADA. Their collections are housed in 4 expansive buildings on the site of the old RAF Hemswell, offering a great experience and a full day out to visitors. With over 9,000 antiques for sale online and thousands more in our centres, you are guaranteed to find just what you need to transform your home into a cosy, autumn sanctuary!
