Reviving the Past: How Antiques Can Breathe New Life Into Your Home Decor

As someone who appreciates all things old, ornate, and timeless, I believe that incorporating antiques into modern living spaces can add a certain magic to a home. While trends in home decor come and go, antiques offer a way to anchor a space with stories, characters, and a touch of the past. 

To embrace antiques, it is important to understand their appeal. Antiques are more than just old objects, they are tangible pieces of history that bring with them stories of different eras, craftsmanship, and the lives they have touched. 

Each scratch tells a story, adding depth and texture to your home. In a world where so much is mass-produced, these pieces stand out as unique and irreplaceable.

For those new to antiques, starting small is best. A vintage mirror, an antique vase, or a set of old brass candlesticks can be perfect entry points. These items can be seamlessly integrated into contemporary settings without overwhelming the space. The key is not to create a museum but a harmonious blend of old and new.

One of the best aspects of decorating with antiques is the freedom to mix and match different eras and styles. These combinations create a dynamic and visually interesting space that tells a story of diverse histories and styles coming together.

With a little creativity, these pieces can serve new purposes while retaining their historical charm. While repurposing is exciting, restoration is equally important. It’s about preserving the integrity of the piece. 

When restoring, it’s crucial to respect the item’s original craftsmanship. This might mean using period-appropriate materials or techniques. The goal is to maintain the antique’s authenticity and story while ensuring it remains functional and beautiful.

Every room needs a focal point, and what better way to create one than with a stunning antique piece? A large, ornate mirror or a grand, vintage chandelier can become the centerpiece of a room, drawing the eye and setting the tone. These pieces add visual interest and create a sense of elegance and grandeur.

Discovering and integrating antiques into your home should be a joyous process of personal expression. Each piece you choose should resonate with you, whether it’s because of its beauty, its story, or the potential you see in it. Decorating with antiques is about curating a space that reflects your personality and journey.

Use your antiques as a vibrant, storytelling element that can add depth, character, and warmth to your home. They should remind you of the enduring beauty of craftsmanship and the importance of preserving history.

 As you embark on your journey with antiques, remember that it’s not just about decorating a space but about creating a home that tells your unique story, a home where the past and present coexist in beautiful harmony.

Check out @tangerine_home on Instagram or go to their website.

About Tonna Cooney

Tonna Cooney is the creative force behind Tangerine Home, and a celebrated vintage and antique home decor enthusiast. Her journey into the world of antiques began in 1998, during a visit to the Round Top antique show in Texas. She found herself captivated by the unique and storied pieces she discovered there. This experience, combined with her love for the iconic design book Rachel Ashwell’s ‘Shabby Chic’, ignited a passion that transformed into a thriving career.

Tonna’s style is also deeply influenced by a distinct punk aesthetic, a unique blend that adds an edge to her collections. She has an affinity for muted, earthy tones and one-of-a-kind items that wouldn’t be found in mainstream stores. Her particular fondness for disco balls epitomizes her eclectic taste – if she spots one, she’s sure to snap it up.

Tonna’s approach to sourcing is intuitive and spontaneous. She doesn’t shop with a list but is guided by her eye for the unusual and her talent for reimagining objects in new, creative ways. Her love for the thrill of the hunt, the stories behind each piece, and the connections with knowledgeable sellers are what drives her.

In Tonna’s world, every item has a story to tell, and she finds joy in giving these pieces new life and passing them on to others who will cherish them. Her unique perspective lets her see the beauty and potential in items others might overlook. Tonna believes in creating spaces that feel good, echoing her philosophy that your home should be a place of inspiration, comfort, and personal expression.

Through her online store, Tangerine Home, which features nearly 1,000 vintage and antique finds, Tonna continues to share her passion, inviting others to explore the beauty of the past, reimagine their spaces, and find joy in the unique and historical.