With Modern Classic being the hottest new interior trend for spring/summer 2015, now is the perfect time to find pieces of period furnishings for your home. It’s far easier to source high quality antique and vintage pieces online than ever, but remember to do your research so you know you aren’t being undersold. Image above courtesy of Ensemble Architecture DPC
Here’s a few places to start looking for your new old furnishings.
Check The Classifieds
Classified ads in the local news or online with Freecycle or Gumtree often advertise unwanted furniture or interior fittings for low prices, so keep an eye out, and be sure to telephone the seller to find out more information regarding the dimensions and condition of the product. While many retailers will offer their own delivery services, if you are collecting large pieces of furniture from an individual it can be hard to do the logistics yourself, or find a trustworthy man and van. TNT offer a reliable courier service with signed for delivery, so any fragile or large finds are in safe hands. Image above Parisian Apartment by Sandra Benhamou.
Go Antiquing
Antique shopping has become increasingly easy in recent years, and it’s simple to find a store or market nearby. Auctions are the traditional go-to for particularly valuable assets, so visit if you are prepared to spend big money. A relaxed alternative is visiting markets and shops. Cities often have flea markets on selected days of the week, and while it is unlikely that you will find larger pieces of furniture there, art, ceramics and glassware, and textiles including linens and rugs will be on offer. If you have a specific piece that you are looking for, contact some local antique stores to visit, as their staff will be more knowledgeable.
Charity Shopping
Most charity shops stock mainly clothes and books, but they are a great place to source smaller elements like chinaware, mirrors, art, frames, and small pieces of furniture including bookcases and coffee tables. However, many Charities also have branches of furniture shops, stocking larger pieces including wardrobes, bed frames, and tables. Often pieces will be sold together as sets for a lower price than buying each component individually, and are thoroughly inspected to ensure they are fit for sale. In addition, the shop can usually organise delivery to your home for a very low fee, and each purchase benefits the charity.
Great example, Brooklyn Apartment by Ensemble Architecture.
