Layout 2012: Not Your Grandma's Antiques

Antiques never fall out of favor, but they will claim a huge share of the spotlight in next year’s insides. Because so many of them boast exceptional detailing and meticulous craftsmanship, they could add instant character to a room. The key to making them seem fresh: Blend them into sleek design, spark them with sudden colours, and repurpose them in creative ways.

Whether you’re an antiques collector or just trying to figure out what to do with a cellar filled with your grandparents’ furniture, there’s plenty to inspire you here.

Justine Hand

Distressed sky blue on a classic sideboard adds the sole strong hit of color in this tranquil, rustic area. The area is all lines and angles, and the sideboard dovetails perfectly. Upholstered armchairs supply a needed bit of softness.

Black wall paint provides this traditional room an instant advantage. Dark finishes on the Windsor-style chair along with the hutch keep the appearance streamlined.

NICOLEHOLLIS

My favorite strategy to antiques: Look for components from some other nations and cultures. This black rain drum pulls double duty as a side table.

Lucid Interior Design Inc..

A classic office desk changed to a dressing table is a genius touch. The drawers provide more storage for toddlers.

Integrated

Although this classic chest is the focal point of the wall, a grab bag of chairs along with a collage of eclectic art keep it from feeling fusty.

From time to time, it’s all in the accessorizing. A patinated cable basket, an assortment of classic glass bottles, and shelves filled with crisp white towels provide this painted cabinet a cottage-chic upgrade.

Splendid Willow

Wow! Just add Prussian blue, and this classic chest sizzles. Leonine drawer pulls complement the carved detailing and the regal color.

Artistic Designs for Living, Tineke Triggs

The classic file cabinet and cowhide seat both layer texture within this space. As a result of the spareness of the décor along with the chair’s modern lines, the cabinet feels contemporary instead of cast-off.

Kaylovesvintage

I really like this homeowner not only embraced a very old-fashioned desk, but also had the moxie to pair it with a totally mod seat. The comparison makes for a gorgeous balance.

SFGIRLBYBAY

Who could not use another place to display novels? If you have a chair that is too rickety to sit on, here’s a fantastic way to give it new life.

Joani Stewart-Georgi – Montana Ave. Interiors

Spunky orange and pink, along with glam mirrored accents, make this classic bed look complicated.

Next:
Go”Green” With Antiques
Get the Look: Immediate Collection
Classic Pieces: The Secretary Desk

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