Vintage style furniture holds a special kind of magic. Each piece carries a story of craftsmanship, design eras, and well-lived lives. Whether you’re exploring a flea market or browsing a consignment shop, the excitement of finding a hidden gem never fades. But with so many options available, how do you know which pieces are truly worth investing in?
To help you curate a home that is both stylish and rich in history, we’ve gathered insights from design experts and vintage enthusiasts on their top picks. Whether you’re decorating a house in Austin, TX, an apartment in San Francisco, CA, or a rental home in Columbus, OH, consider this your ultimate guide to navigating the world of secondhand treasures. Let’s dive in.
Tips for Shopping for Vintage Style Furniture
Before embarking on your vintage shopping adventure, it’s essential to keep some savvy tips in mind. Kandice Moore, owner of Moore Vintage in Houston, TX, recommends starting with the sniff test to check for lingering odors like smoke. Look for craftsmanship that withstands the test of time, such as dovetail joints and solid wood construction. Since older pieces tend to be smaller, measuring before purchase is crucial.
Steven Nohren from Retro Modern Furnishings in Raleigh, NC, suggests looking for timeless elements like quality wood grains, sturdy construction, and versatile colors. These elements age well compared to fleeting trends. Consider how each piece will contribute to the room’s visual dialogue in terms of architecture, lighting, flooring, and accessories.
Popular Vintage Styles to Explore
Certain vintage furniture styles stand the test of time. Whether you prefer ornate details or sleek sophistication, these iconic eras could be the perfect addition to your home.
Victorian Era
Upholstered furniture from the Victorian era is currently in high demand. These pieces, typically made of solid hardwood like mahogany or walnut, have proven their durability over time. Reupholstering Victorian furniture in modern fabrics can create a unique, stylish look that blends different styles.
Mid Century Italian
Mid Century Italian pieces are known for clean lines and artistic flair. Designs by renowned figures like Gio Ponti offer a sound investment due to their timeless appeal and quality craftsmanship. The use of curved shapes, exotic woods, and lush fabrics characterize this era.
Danish Modern
Danish Modern furniture is highly sought after for its minimalist design and impeccable craftsmanship. This Scandinavian style is celebrated for its functionality and cool aesthetics, making it a timeless choice for vintage enthusiasts and contemporary collectors.
To identify authentic mid-century modern pieces, look for seamless joinery, manufacturer or designer labels, and high-quality veneers like teak or rosewood. Signs of wear, patina, or aging can also indicate authenticity.
1. Cabinets
Vintage cabinets bring history and personality to your space, making them essential additions to your shopping list. A classic piece like a Hoosier cabinet adds charm and functionality to a kitchen with features like built-in flour sifters and pull-out countertops.
Pay attention to details like vintage cabinet pulls crafted from materials like brass or bronze, which add a timeless touch to your space.
2. Bookshelves
Vintage bookcases go beyond holding books—they blend practicality with personality. Barrister bookcases are recommended for their modular design and glass doors that showcase your items without constant dusting.
Mid-century modern bookshelves offer bold design statements with a mix of open and closed shelves, adding an architectural element to your room.
3. Sofas
A vintage sofa can be the centerpiece of your living space, bringing style, comfort, and a story to your home. Older sofas often boast higher quality than new ones at a moderate price point.
Consider reupholstering older sofas with quality fabrics to give them a fresh new look. Standout pieces like a unique mid-century sideboard or an oversized Chesterfield sofa can instantly elevate your room’s style.
4. Chair Sets
A set of vintage chairs can transform a room, offering both functionality and style. Vintage Emeco chairs and swivel chairs are highlighted for their industrial elegance and versatility.
5. Tables
Tables play a vital role in vintage style furniture, offering versatility and functionality. Small, multipurpose tables are recommended for their versatility and unique design elements.
Console tables, particularly practical and timeless pieces, can be a great addition to your space. Look for authentic antiques with subtle imperfections that signify quality craftsmanship.
6. Chest of Drawers
A low boy chest of drawers is a versatile piece to look for while shopping for vintage furniture. It can serve multiple purposes in different rooms, offering ample storage and style.
Creating a Vintage-Inspired Space
Decorating with vintage style furniture is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about infusing your space with history and personality. Each piece adds a layer of intrigue and flair, transforming your home into a unique reflection of your style. So, embrace your inner treasure hunter and start styling your home with vintage decor.