How to find and decorate with antiques
July 21, 2009
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Tara Dalla-Nora
SPECIAL TO YOURHOME.CA
I’ve recently taken on a residential design project where my client has specified that she would like me to mix antique pieces with clean, straight lines.
At first I thought this might be difficult to accomplish, as antique and contemporary are two very different styles. However, when I started researching and shopping for the pieces, I realized that the clean simplicity of contemporary really helped to balance the curvilinear and ornate tendencies of antique pieces. Once I found a visual, harmonious blend of the two styles, they really complimented one another.
Here are some places that I would recommend for antique shopping:
507 Antiques (Toronto)
They have an overwhelming selection of furniture from dining tables to light fixtures. The majority of their pieces are brought in from France and range from 19th century French Country to Art Deco, which the company will restore for you. I found a 19th century draw leaf dining table and hutch for my client. The beauty of these pieces lie within their history and will make you feel like you’ve purchased a piece of art, rather than a piece of furniture.
St. Jacobs Antique Market (Waterloo)
This is a bit of a drive from Toronto, but well worth it when looking for accessories and furniture. There’s a smaller selection in furniture, but once you find a piece that will work for you, the prices are amazing. The selection of accessories range from glassware to old washing boards. I found a couple of tin milk cans about 24” high that I will be using in the front foyer of my client’s house to hold antique walking sticks.
Elbers Antiques and Refinishing (Toronto)
This was a place I stumbled upon by accident in the east end of Toronto. I found an antique walnut console in their display window that had been re-finished in house. They can re-finish, restore and upholster any antique.
Queen West Antique Center (Toronto)
Here you will find one-of-a kind pieces that consist of a modern/vintage mix of Danish teak and Industrial. Metal and glass are accompanied by upholstered pieces and the warm look of naturally oiled wood. I found a retro metal sunburst clock that I will be hanging over the fireplace. It’s amusing to look at and fits well within the eclectic interior.
Aside from these suggestions, the fun of antique shopping is exploring
neighbourhoods and seeing what you will find. Mixing antiques with
contemporary pieces is a great way to keep your interior looking modern
yet classic. The advantage of this type of decor is the ability to
change the look of your space by adding or replacing the antiques at a
reasonable cost. This approach to decorating also makes for good
conversation while entertaining. The options are endless — from
dinnerware to furniture, you have the ability to create a timeless
environment to be enjoyed by all.
Tara Dalla-Nora has a B.A. in interior design and is the owner and principal designer of Inner Luxe in Toronto’s Bloor West Village.