Design 2012: Not Your Grandma's Antiques
Antiques are hot on the horizon for 2012. Here's how to update them for the new year.
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating media and immediately discovered a new passion. An Atlanta native, I spent several years as an editor for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine before making the leap to national publications and websites such as Houzz, Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Accents. I live in Birmingham, Alabama, with my husband and son, who’ve gotten used to coming home and finding the furniture rearranged. When I'm not dragging case goods across the floor, I enjoy good food and wine, college football, music of all kinds, and traveling.
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating... More »
Antiques never really fall out of favor, but they'll claim a big share of the spotlight in next year's interiors. Because so many of them boast unique detailing and meticulous craftsmanship, they can add instant personality to a room. The key to making them look fresh: Blend them into sleek design, spark them with unexpected colors, and repurpose them in creative ways.
Whether you're an antiques collector or just trying to figure out what to do with a basement full of your grandparents' furniture, there's loads to inspire you here.
Whether you're an antiques collector or just trying to figure out what to do with a basement full of your grandparents' furniture, there's loads to inspire you here.
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by Justine Hand
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| Distressed sky blue on an antique sideboard adds the only strong hit of color in this serene, rustic space. The room is all lines and angles, and the sideboard dovetails perfectly. Upholstered armchairs provide a needed touch of softness. |
Black wall paint gives this traditional room an instant edge. Dark finishes on the Windsor-style chair and the hutch keep the look streamlined.
by Nicole Hollis
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My favorite approach to antiques: Seek out elements from other countries and cultures. This Indonesian rain drum pulls double duty as a side table.
An old office desk transformed into a vanity is a genius touch. The drawers provide extra storage for toiletries.
by Incorporated
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Although this antique chest is the focal point of the wall, a grab bag of chairs and a collage of eclectic artwork keep it from feeling fusty.
Sometimes, it's all in the accessorizing. A patinated wire basket, an assortment of old-fashioned glass bottles, and shelves full of crisp white towels give this painted cabinet a cottage-chic update.
by Splendid Willow
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Wow! Just add Prussian blue, and this antique chest sizzles. Leonine drawer pulls complement the carved detailing and the regal color.
The vintage file cabinet and cowhide chair both layer texture into this space. Thanks to the spareness of the décor and the chair's modern lines, the cabinet feels contemporary rather than cast-off.
by Kaylovesvintage
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I love that this homeowner not only embraced a very old-fashioned desk, but also had the moxie to pair it with a totally mod chair. The contrast makes for a beautiful balance.
by SFGIRLBYBAY
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Who couldn't use another spot to display books? If you have a chair that's too rickety to sit on, here's a great way to give it new life.
| Spunky pink and orange, along with glam mirrored accents, make this antique bed appear sophisticated. Next: Go "Green" Using Antiques Get the Look: Instant Collection Classic Pieces: The Secretary Desk |
Comments
ellie48 Lisa. Thank you so much for this post. It reinforces my ideas on how antiques can be used! This is a good reference post. Brilliant. Thanks gain.
18 months ago · Like
theparisapartment Very cool choices!
18 months ago · Like
Maureen Kocsis The primitive blue cabinet is a Pie safe or a Jelly cabinet. If the blue paint is original it is worth more money. Old is new again.....love it
18 months ago · Like
Ellen T. Just what I needed to see right now! I'm redecorating/remodeling my master bedroom and have decided to pick up a used dresser and paint it instead of going with brand new. I want the character and detailing that only an older piece can give and this idea book just gave me the reinforcement I needed. Great examples, thanks!
18 months ago · Like
pattipat I've loved old furniture since I was a teen and I really enjoyed this. Thanks for some new ideas for my well loved old chairs!
18 months ago · Like
spiegat I'm so excited about the prussian blue chest as I have one just like it that I stuck upstairs in an office because I was tired of the look. Can't wait to paint and repurpose this piece! Thanks for the inspiration!
18 months ago · Like
tusk75 Architectural antiques are amazing, affordable and can lend just the right touch for a space. My favorite collection is at Metropolitan Artifacts in Atlanta. 
18 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on Dec. 26, 2011.
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