Transforming Spaces on a Dime: The Joy of Secondhand Home Decor
Discovering the charm of a residence adorned with treasures never fails to ignite a certain passion. If a room seems lacking or in need of that final touch, a one-of-a-kind find from an antique mall or thrift shop might just do the trick. "Antique and vintage furniture can add warmth, depth, and character to a room," shares Jessica Lev, owner of Jessica Lev Antiques. What sets these finds apart? The unique, inimitable personality they bring to a space, that you simply can't obtain from a catalog or showroom.
While some may choose to indulge in antiques from top to bottom, it's not necessary to commit entirely to vintage decor. Designer Bria Hammel suggests steering clear of upholstery when shopping for secondhand items, especially in homes with children or pets. Austin-based designer Laura Pankonien shares this sentiment, suggesting a preference for modern construction in large pieces, but still admires the form of antique side chairs and benches.
But, what about the pieces that should be left untouched? Hammel, Lev, and Pankonien weigh in on the items best left with their original patina, and how to hunt down the hidden gems waiting to transform your home.
Meet the Experts:
- Jessica Lev: Owner of Jessica Lev Antiques, an antiques sourcing and consulting firm in Houston, Texas.
- Bria Hammel: CEO and creative director of Bria Hammel Interiors in Mendota Heights, Minnesota.
- Laura Pankonien: Principal designer at design and build company The Pankonien Group in Austin, Texas.
Why embark on a quest for secondhand decor? Beyond its aesthetic appeal, there are various reasons to choose pre-loved items over new:
- Their potential to boast significant monetary value in the future, should they be in excellent condition.
- The superior quality of antique furnishings, often hand-constructed and featuring interesting details.
- Lower purchasing cost compared to new furnishings, provided you don't overpay.
- Environmental benefits, as it reduces the waste produced by new manufacturing and fosters a greener approach to interiors.
Where to find the best antiques:
- Local stores: Visiting locally-based antique shops allows you to examine items up close and become familiar with antique styles and eras.
- Smaller towns: Exploring secondhand stores in smaller towns can yield lesser-priced treasures than those found in bustling city markets.
Tips to ensure you score the best secondhand decor finds:
- Maintain an open mind: While it's crucial to have a list of desired items, keep an eye out for surprise finds that may perfectly suit your space.
- Pay attention to details: Inspect the construction and period style of every piece before making a purchase.
Decor items that should never be bought new:
- Vintage Rugs: Antique runners or mid-sized rugs add charm to living spaces when layered underneath cocktail tables or other furniture.
- Books: Old books add character and warmth to bookshelves, creating cozy nooks.
- Boxes and baskets: Antique boxes and baskets transform the mundane into the extraordinary, stylishly storing clutter or hiding away smaller items.
- Chests: Versatile and timeless, antique chests and commodes can function in multiple rooms, reducing the need for multiple small storage pieces.
- China and ceramics: Collecting secondhand plates, porcelain, or china pieces infuses personality and supports sustainable decor practices.
- Dining tables: Antique and vintage dining tables might be more budget-friendly and boast a superior build quality compared to modern alternatives.
[1] Source: The Spruce[2] Source: DecorAid[3] Source: The Kitchn[4] Source: The Spruce[5] Source: Laura Pankonien
After exploring local antique shops, you might stumble upon Home Decor Ideas from SouthernLiving magazine that can elevate your Home's ambiance. Jessica Lev, an expert in antique sourcing, emphasizes the uniqueness and character that antique finds can bring to a space.
While Bria Hammel advises against purchasing secondhand upholstery due to potential wear and tear, she recommends incorporating antique side chairs and benches for their form and charm in modern homes.
