Antiques: Are They Making a Comeback?

Since last year, several top-tier editorial journals have declared that antiques are making a comeback. Antiques may occupy a special place in your heart, as you are well aware.

But, exactly, what is an antique? What’s the difference between an antique, an inheritance, and a vintage item? What are the origins of antiques, and how can you incorporate them into your modern designs?

What exactly does it mean to be a collector of antiques?

An antique is something that has been around for at least 100 years. They’re items that have been around for a long time and have made it to the present day.

While you might think of antiques as a type of furniture or décor, this definition of the term ‘antique’ encompasses a wide range of styles. To put it another way, antiques aren’t confined to a single style, so you’ll find Victorian, Neoclassical, Art Deco, and even Biedermeier furniture, some of which is approaching its 100th year.

Antiques, however, are exceptional items from the past that go beyond their age. “Unique” might refer to the fact that it still exists—it doesn’t have to have belonged to a renowned historical figure, and it could be the property of ordinary people. An antique is defined as something that has lasted for many years and has an aura, history, and narrative attached to it.

What’s the difference between an antique piece of furniture and a vintage one?

Antiques are typically approximately 100 years old (but 95 years old is considered vintage), whereas vintage is defined as anything that has been around for at least 20 years. Antique things are typically items that you bought fresh and still own—you are the first generation of owners. In contrast, antiques are more about the second, third, and even fourth generations of owners. Consider the difference between your mother’s 1980s trousers and your great-table grandmother’s.

What is ‘Brown Furniture,’ exactly?

When you hear the word “antique,” what comes to mind? It’s most likely a large piece of dark wood furniture with intricate carvings for many of us. If this is the case, you’re thinking about “brown furniture,” which is a type of ancient furniture.

Darker stained woods, especially mahogany and walnut, are common in antiques, which is where the word “brown furniture” originates from. While this may appear to be a generic phrase, it refers to antique furniture constructed of these darker woods.

Lighter woods, such as pine, are commonly used in folk furniture. Pennsylvania Dutch furniture has a variety of lighter, painted furniture pieces. The same may be said of 18th and 19th century Italian and French furniture.

Is there a Resurgence of Antiques Interest?

Antiques have all of the ingredients to become the next big thing. Why? This is due to a variety of factors, including their attraction to millennials, sustainability, affordability, and the cyclical nature of trends.

Antiques and the Environment

Antiques, in contrast to the fast-furniture industry, are extremely long-lasting. The materials used to create these now-antique pieces have mostly remained untouched and are devoid of many of the toxins found in modern furniture. They aren’t sent across the country, but you might be able to find them in a flea market near you.

Antiques are a solid financial investment.

The affordability of antiques is another key element in their rebirth. Because the bulk of these things are well-made, you can get solid wood dressers and well-built sofas for a fraction of the cost of new ones.

Antiques and Millennials

Millennials will become significant participants in the antique market, despite widespread assumption that they are destroying antiques.

Millennials want to be noticed and to show off their own personalities and styles. What better way to create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere than with anti-mass-production furniture?

Because the Mid-Century Modern trend has become so saturated, practically “brownie,” people are looking for new clothing and design concepts to express their individuality. Who doesn’t like a work with a story and an aura, as we already stated?

What Are Some Ways to Integrate Antiques Into Modern Spaces?

Antiques are not always easy to deal with in modern or contemporary settings.

Start small. Instead of a mahogany cabinet, opt for antique furniture with a lower scale. Accent tables, sewing tables, and even paintings are all wonderful locations to begin dabbling in the antique world.

Natural Textures. Natural textures assist to bring the dark, heavy woods into harmony. To lighten up your space, choose lighter materials and colors.

Color. Saturated colours such as blues, burgundies, and even reds can help to balance your surroundings and counteract the darkness of the woods.