The Crown Collection Articles

Discover more about your favourite antiques.

Welcome to our antique furniture store, where you will find a stunning collection of bespoke, authentic antique furniture and decor. We specialize in providing unique and rare pieces that will add a touch of elegance and history to any space. Our collection includes exquisite French antiques, Victorian furniture, vintage furniture, and much more.

Our antique store offers a wide range of pieces, from antique chairs and desks to armoires and entrance tables. Our French furniture collection includes beautiful French chandeliers, French mirrors, and French tables that will bring a touch of sophistication to your home. We also offer exquisite crystal chandeliers, candelabras, and throne chairs that are perfect for adding a regal touch to any room. Our Crown Collection features some of the most impressive pieces in our store, and we are confident that you will find something truly unique and special to add to your home.

Whether you are a collector of antique furniture or simply appreciate the beauty and history of these unique pieces, our antique furniture store is the perfect place to find that special item. We take pride in our collection of rare and authentic pieces, and we are confident that you will find something that speaks to your individual style and tastes. So, visit us today and discover the timeless beauty of antique furniture and decor.

Go for gold when decorating with antiques

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Gilded antiques, Gilded chairs, GIlded mirrors, Gilded vintage and antique furniture, Mix & match gilded antiques with modern pieces|

A golden patina in the form of gilded antiques – be that furniture or accessories – is the ‘LBD’ (little black dress) of interior design. It is timeless, classic, seductive, bold, glamorous and dramatic and it goes with anything. Often associated with French interior design, gilded furniture was highly sought after in the 18th century and has never lost its allure. Today it is still a firm favourite among decorators and collectors alike.

Gilding is an age-old decorating technique that involves applying thin layers of gold leaf to solid surfaces giving them a lustre similar to solid gold. And beyond the obvious nod to opulence, gilded antiques and vintage items do not tarnish.

Adding a golden touch to any interior space will always result in a visual wow factor. No accessory is too small and no piece of furniture is too big to benefit from a little of this gilded magic.

Find your antique gilded inspiration from the following design trends:

Gold and black

You can never go wrong with this all-time classic and powerful pairing; it is the ‘Antony and Cleopatra’ of the design world. Refined, bold, dramatic and chic – gilded antique accents are high contrast in a predominantly black contemporary scheme and bring a sense of depth, harmony, balance and a Midas touch of surprise which cleverly enhances the overall effect.

If you want to tap into this sophisticated gold and black design narrative, then your starting point is a gilded mirror, gilded chandelier, gilded coffee table or gilded occasional chairs set against a moody backdrop. (In fact, we think James Bond would feel quite at home in such a scenario – so get ready to shake those Vesper martinis!).

Gold and ivory

If gold and black are a tad too masculine for your design sensibilities, then the obvious softer contrasting combination for antique gilded accent pieces is a relaxed ivory colour palette. (There is nothing ‘beige’ about this look). The feminine charm and comfortable elegance of juxtaposing a gilt chandelier, gilded mirror or gilded chairs against ivory neutrals or bleached furniture are beautiful to behold. (It is a welcome scheme that will wrap you in a luxurious hug).

If you want to elevate the look and feel of any space in your home, then an ivory colour palette with touches of gold is an all-time winner.

Gold and colour

Gilded antique furniture and vintage accessories take on a fun and quirky design quality when matched with colourful accent pieces. The bejewelled effect is simply beguiling. A splash of colour is the perfect way to make gilded antiques not look so serious. (This is a seamless design trick for mixing and matching antiques with modern or midcentury pieces).

The beauty of a decor marriage with gilded furniture or accessories and colourful accents is that ANY colour or hue goes with gold. This versatile combination means you cannot get your decorating palette wrong.

Gold and animal print

Pushing design boundaries, adding major design attitude and implementing an eclectic statement are all down to the daring decor combination of antique gilded pieces and animal prints. (Think of it as the glorious sun shining down on the bushveld). In theory, this pairing is not intuitive, but in practice, it just works.

The striking contrast of glamorous gold antiques set against organic animal print patterns elevates the design story, commands attention and provides high impact. (Just a cheeky design solution to bringing the outdoors in!).

Gold and patterns

Floral or graphic fabrics, stripes, toile designs, decorative artworks and patterned rugs are obvious elements to integrate with gilded furniture. They not only give a fresh and modern twist but also counterbalance the gold highlights with customised charm and bespoke flair.

From bold and geometric patterns to soft romantic florals and abstract designs, you get to play with colour, shape and texture. And they all complement gilded antiques by setting the tone – either with a comfortable whimsical flourish or as a formal focal point. This is where layering truly comes into its own.

Start small with patterned lampshades on a gilded base and gilded frames for artworks or go big with a gilded mirror, chandelier or occasional chair perfectly playing with patterned accessories and fabrics. (This works as well in an adult space as it does in a little girl’s bedroom).

Gold and wood

The artisanal craftsmanship of antique wood pieces is just one reason to invest in antiques. Another reason is that the glam of giltwood pieces is an elegant and obvious contrast to the natural, warm wood tones; bringing harmony and cohesiveness. The neutral characteristics of antique wood and the accents of gold are also the perfect backdrop for bringing in modern pieces.

The inherent allure of antique furniture is that it often features intricate wood carving, marquetry or decorative flourishes. These pieces are beautiful on their own – unspoilt – but when these elements are gilded, the visual details are enhanced and a new decor conversation begins.

Gold and The Crown Collection

The Crown Collection is the perfect match between homeowners, decorators or collectors and antique, vintage or French furniture. Boasting the most desirable and curated collection of gilded furniture and accessories, this is the obvious emporium to visit when adding a touch of gold to any of your spaces. And should you wish for any item to be hand gilded or given a gold paint technique, our in-house restorers offer this professional artisanal service.

Go for gold and transform your spaces by visiting us online or in-studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

Tips for styling antique candlesticks & candelabra

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique candelabra, Antique decorative accessories, Antique online store, Candelabra and candlesticks, vintage candlesticks|

The French say that lighting is essential to the character of any room and one of their favourite elements to achieve this (besides a chandelier, of course) is candlesticks and candelabra. These elegant items of illumination, originally designed for utilitarian purposes, have come full circle to become pieces of timeless decor jewellery in any modern home.

Whether antique candelabra and candlesticks are placed on a mantlepiece in the entrance hall, are used to adorn an elaborate dining room table or are styled on a marble or granite top in the bathroom, there’s a perfect spot for one (or more) of these decorative accessories in any room of your home.

If you are looking to add a little irresistible allure and layering to your design story, then antique candelabra or vintage candlesticks are just the ticket.

Drama in the dining room

The romantic glow of a timeless candelabra is the perfect addition when creating an intimate setting and adding instant tablescaping drama. As friends and family gather around, your dining room table becomes the perfect setting to display your antique candelabra showpiece.

Antique or vintage candlesticks quickly become a simple way of stealing the show in any dining space. Juxtaposed at varying heights, they give a fanciful, playful touch in a more casual setting. To soften a more formal and sophisticated vignette, flank candlesticks on either side of a floral arrangement.

Grouping candlesticks or candelabra on a table or sideboard adds a bold focal point and elaborate drama to a dining room. And placing them at an equal distance from each other brings about a sense of balance to the room.

Accents in the entrance hall

If you want to give guests a moment of welcome pause as they enter your home and transport them to a simpler time, then a well-placed antique candelabrum in your entrance hall will achieve this.

While it may be tempting to place candelabra across your entire home it is always wise to practise a little design restraint and position them in a less cluttered setting where a romantic flourish is needed. (These decorative lovelies deserved to be noticed). No matter what your personal preference – gilded, crystal, silver, wrought-iron, cast-iron, brass or wooden – we have over 100 candlesticks and candelabra to choose from.

A pair of matching candlesticks placed on either side of a mantel in the entrance hall creates a functional framework for a circular mirror – giving the space a sense of harmony and balance.

Beauty in the bathroom

Bathrooms are fast becoming designer spaces where vintage whimsy and antique items are being highlighted. Cue a collage of antique candlesticks and silver objets d’ art to create a haven of relaxation. (Candles have always been the go-to when scripting a restful and romantic spa-like setting).

Create a captivating glow as you bask in the tub by scattering candlesticks around the bath or placing a candelabrum on a chest of drawers. These personal touches add warmth, history and charm to an often neglected and traditionally utilitarian space.

Choice at the Crown Collection

The key to a beautiful space is mixing and matching a few carefully chosen antique or vintage pieces in a modern interior. This makes a trip to The Crown Collection your ideal starting point. Even Decor & Design SA agree: “We love a beautiful layered interior – one that tells a story and combines unique and timeless pieces with a few modern twists. Using antiques is often a great way to add depth and a classic touch to your space. The Crown Collection has a splendid array of timeless furniture items to add old-world charm to any interior.”

And when it comes to accessorising with antique candlesticks or candelabra, we have everything from French-inspired to Gothic designs to add the perfect touch to any style and any setting. From 22-karat gold gilded torchieres to Art Deco candlesticks and silver-plated candelabras, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

As South Africa’s largest emporium of handpicked vintage and antique furniture, we have a vast array of one-of-a-kind antique pieces to add undisputed elegance to your home (plus, we deliver to your door).

Visit our studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston or shop online.

5 Ways to add a little French style to your home

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: French Antiques, French styles interior design, Vintage French Style|

If you are completely besotted with a French-style aesthetic for your interior spaces, then you don’t need a trip to Paris or Provence for inspiration. You just need to take a trip to The Crown Collection where a beautifully curated range of French furniture and accessories await.

But what exactly is ‘French style’? If you had to ask the French to define their interior style choices, they would probably look at you askance and in a condescending French way – with a French accent – say, “You cannot define French style; you either have it or you don’t.”

But we are going to try because it is not as elusive as the French make it out to be. There are certain quintessential characteristics that have come to reflect the French style in interior design circles and which you can simply add to your home.

Although not French, Columbian interior designer, Juan Montoya, clearly articulates what we believe makes French-style interiors so special: “A room should never allow the eye to settle in one place. It should smile at you and create fantasy.”

Follow our 5 decor tips for any space in your home to smile at you – French Style.

#1 The colour palette

Before you even begin your journey into choosing antique or vintage French-style furniture pieces or decorative accessories, you need to arm yourself with some French colour therapy.

Although bold pops of colour are not out of the question, they are minor accents to an overarching swatch card of softer and romantic neutrals: shades of white, beige, grey, sage, duck-egg blue and blush pink. These are the backdrop colours that will charm any interior and welcome you. (The French will not negotiate on this and once you start having fun with the eclectic side of French design, you will understand why).

Getting the colour palette right is the key to a successful decor story. And from this starting point, there are so many French styles you can experiment with to find your personal favourite that will give your home a bespoke ‘ooh-la-la’ Parisian or French country feel.

#2 The architectural details

Charles Eames (of the iconic Eames chair) said that “The details are not the details. They make the design.”

This couldn’t be more true of French Style interiors. If your spaces don’t boast architectural details such as ornate pressed ceilings, crown moulding, exposed wooden beams, wainscotting or chevron-patterned wood floors, then antique or vintage French pieces are the solution.

The decorative details in French armoires, bombe chests or linen presses are the perfect finishing touch to modern minimalistic architectural spaces.

If space is limited, then shift your focus to little French chairs (gilded, of course), chaises, ornately shaped mirrors and decorative screens that will always fit the ‘details’ brief.

#3 The glittering gilded glam factor

No matter how many crystal chandeliers, gilded mirrors and shiny silver accessories feature in French style design, the French are nothing if they aren’t refined and subtle in their approach to interior design elements. So even though a room may house an ornate gilded mirror, gilded chairs and a chandelier, the effect will never be gaudy or over-the-top. Rather, there is an understated elegance that is harmonious and comfortable.

When done properly, French-styled rooms make you want to linger and just appreciate every beautifully placed piece.

#4 The distressed, aged look

It doesn’t really matter which style of French design is your favourite because when it comes to furniture pieces, the number one consideration is comfort and style (and a white-washed, distressed or aged finish). Somehow this aged patina – which draws on a historical decor narrative – still lends a sophisticated charm.

These layered decor notes create a warm atmosphere; highlighting a space that is lived-in and well-loved. Another way to add an aged look is by adding an antique Aubusson carpet; the history, colours and patterns are the perfect soft furnishing in any room.

“There are two things that make a room timeless: a sense of history and a piece of the future.” –Charlotte Moss, award-winning interior designer.

#5 The eclectic charm

French-style homes exude the epitome of casual elegance – almost as if they have been thrown together. (We say almost because an eclectic space still follows some clear decor principles that are adhered to achieve the ‘the look’). The secret to achieving this French eclectic cohesiveness is the fun factor of mixing and matching old and new pieces. This is where the French get interior design right. It is their ‘je ne sais quoi.’ A carefully curated aesthetic of antique and vintage items, scattered among contemporary pieces, adds personality and a French chicness.

David Hicks, the English interior decorator and designer who was known for his bold mixing of antique and modern furnishings, needs to have the last word on this: “The best rooms have something to say about the people who live in them.”

Start your French-style transformation by popping in at The Crown Collection Emporium either online or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston. We deliver nationwide.

Say ‘Yes’ to an antique chest of drawers or chest-on-chest

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique chest of drawers, Antique tallboy chest-on-chest, Vintage chests and kists|

If you could choose just one piece of furniture to make a bold statement in any or every space of your home, an antique chest of drawers or chest-on-chest is likely to make it to the top of your list. The simple reason is that they offer three distinct decor advantages: they are beautiful, sturdy and functional. What more could you want from a piece of furniture?

But anyone on the hunt for one of these versatile storage pieces does need to be warned – the artisanal detailing, striking hardware, genuine wood finishes and handcrafted elegance of an antique chest of drawers will make you long for more than just one. After all, they work for towels in your bathroom, linen in the passageway nook, clothing in the bedroom, stationary in the study, odds and ends in the hallway, crockery and cutlery in the kitchen and dinnerware in the dining room.

Need we say more? Well, perhaps just a little…

The beauty of a Bombe chest of drawers

The irresistible allure of Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve’s bombe chest in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ has transcended the fairy tale realm and comfortably takes its place in the real decor world.

Coming from the French word meaning ‘curved’, an antique bombe chest is the simplest way to add a little French character, feminine charm and romantic flair to your decor story.

Go for a natural or varnished walnut, mahogany or rosewood bombe chest with ball feet if you are more traditional, or a distressed or painted (in any colour) version with slender legs if you prefer a more contemporary statement. Either way, the elegance cannot be matched. And If you really want a bold accent piece, then a chinoiserie-style lacquered bombe chest with Chinese motifs is a unique addition.

Besides their fantastic storage solutions, bombe chests offer accessorising creativity which adds an extra layer of design personality or decor whimsy wherever they are placed. Pop one in your entrance hall, make a dramatic statement in your bathroom or let it be the focal point in your bedroom or dressing room.

The elegance of a Tallboy chest-on-chest

Could anything be better than an antique chest of drawers? May we suggest an antique chest-on-chest? More commonly referred to as a ‘Tallboy’ by the Brits or ‘Highboy’ by the Americans, this stately piece actually belongs to the French. ‘Tall’ or ‘high’ comes from its height and ‘bois’ is ‘wood’ in French. This is definitely where beauty and function pair up to create ‘high’ drama.

The chest-on-chest (or chest-on-stand) first made an appearance in the late Queen Anne period and is simply 2 pieces that stack vertically to make one very appealing and super functional piece of furniture. If you have the space to showcase one of these, they are a no-brainer investment piece. And as they are becoming rare finds, they will definitely appreciate in value over time.

Just like the little black dress, an antique chest of drawers – in any shape or size – will always be a timeless and fashionable antique item in the decor world of interiors.

The simplicity of a vintage chest

If you are not yet ready to commit to an antique chest of drawers or Tallboy chest-on-chest, then perhaps a smaller antique chest or kist is exactly what you need. They are not only ideal for mixing and matching with contemporary furniture pieces but also perform perfectly as blanket storage trunks at the foot of a bed, toy chests in a child’s bedroom or repurposed coffee tables in a lounge or on a patio. And that empty nook in your entrance hall is simply crying out for a vintage chest.

The wonder of the Crown Collection

The fun of sourcing antique furniture and decorative accessories to suit your home’s aesthetic doesn’t come easier than a trip to The Crown Collection.

As South Africa’s largest emporium of handpicked and curated antique, French and vintage items, we have an antique chest of drawers, a Tallboy chest-on-chest or a kist that has your name written all over it.

For the perfect antique chest for your home, shop online or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

Give your decor a silverware twist

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique and vintage silverware, Candlesticks & candelabra, Decorative silverware, SIlver cutlery, SIlver teapot, SIlver trays|

Antique and vintage silverware finds are making a welcome comeback – but not in the way you would think. In an age of upcycling and repurposing objects, decorative silverware hits the decor world with a flourish. Instead of pouring tea from an antique silver teapot, it now becomes a conversation piece as it adorns any surface; bursting forth with roses or tulips. That decorative silver tray? It now comes into its own as a magnetic noticeboard board or a stand for a collection of treasures, glass bottles or alcoholic decanters.

Polished to a shine or gloriously showcasing an aged patina, silverware adds a rich historical narrative, a gorgeous vintage vibe and an unexpected glam factor. You don’t have to be part of British royalty or the French bourgeoisie to make decorative silver accessories part of your 21st-century interior style story.

If you are looking for charm, whimsy and sparkly sophistication, then you need to be on the hunt for silverware pieces and make their beauty part of the history of your home.

Mismatched collections

The joy of decorating with silverware is that it doesn’t matter if you don’t find a complete set. It doesn’t even matter if the lid of a silver teapot or sugar bowl has gone astray. Its decorative and functional purpose has been redefined. Arranging various pieces together gives a quirky elegance and a storytelling moment to any space.

A curated collection of mismatched silver items brings a unique decor flavour to a sideboard, table, dressing table or desk. Each piece has its own history and together they bring in a level of repurposed quirkiness and layered elegance that is hard to define.

If you are just starting out with your silverware collection, smaller vanity pieces are a great start as they are relatively more affordable and offer bespoke personality and really pretty organizational solutions. They also bring in the whimsical charm of a bygone era. Fall in love with little silver-topped crystal perfume bottles or a handheld silver mirror,

Decorative sIlver trays – in any size or shape – are really trending and the more the merrier. Use them as a reflective base to showcase a collection of objets d’art or hang an assortment on a wall in any configuration.

And then there are silver cutlery sets. Whether you source a full canteen or a mismatched set, any table setting is suddenly elevated. Life is too short to not make every mealtime a special occasion, so don’t leave your silverware lying in a draw, celebrate it by using it.

Mix-and-match vignettes

A design distinctive of silverware is its versatility when it comes to combining it with other materials. Balance and harmony occur when pairing a timeless metal such as silver with modern pieces.

The ‘colour’ of silver also seamlessly enhances all furniture styles – from classic and French country to mid-century modern and sleek contemporary minimalism. It also works in any room in your home.

A collection of silver candlesticks marries so well with glass bottles, concrete-based lamps, wooden photo frames and an ornate gilded mirror. The overall effect is exquisite and yet almost random.

Candelabra and candlesticks are highly sought after decorative pieces and we have dedicated an entire blog to them.

A silver tray once again comes into its own when doubling up as a drinks tray or bar tray; becoming a really stylish feature in your home. No matter how you mix and match the bottles, the silver tray is the anchor decor feature that makes it all come together so beautifully. A styling tip is to balance high and low bottles, glasses and decanters to ensure an inviting visual landscape.

Silverware moments at The Crown Collection

Not sure where to start with your silverware collection? The Crown Collection’s handpicked and curated pieces of decorative vintage and antique silverware will captivate you, making you feel like a child in a candy store. With new stock arriving weekly, we are pretty sure that you will find just the right piece to perfectly fit in your space.

Shop online or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

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Antique furniture trumps mass-produced furniture… every time

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique armoires, Antique chandeliers and mirrors, Antique furniture vs mass-produced furniture, Mix-and-match antique and modern furniture, Quality craftsmanship of antique furniture, Timelessness of antique furniture|

Browse through any decor magazine or watch any interior design renovation show, and the final reveal seamlessly showcases the glory of antique furniture over mass-produced items. It may just be one or two pieces, but the transformation is inspirational. The stylish layering, the rich design story and the intrinsic charm are motivating factors for any homeowner who is looking to furnish their spaces to start sourcing antique or vintage pieces.

This does not ignore the loveliness of modern factory-made pieces, but furnishing an entire home with such pieces will often feel generic, soulless and more like a showroom than a character-filled home with bespoke charm and personality. There is no debate when you are on the hunt for ‘Objets de vertu’ (objects of interest for reasons of history and craftsmanship); antique furniture and accessories fit the brief – every time.

This topic is not a new hobby horse for us; it is a drum we keep banging because the end result is always so satisfying, personalised and sustainable. We have highlighted why antiques are a no-brainer and explained the logic behind why antiques appreciate in value over time. We also believe we are quite persuasive when entering the eco-friendly debate that buying antique furniture (instead of mass-produced furniture) is a legitimate consideration when it comes to saving the planet.

But the case for antique furniture gets even stronger when considering the design trio of artisanal quality, timelessness and storytelling. Mass-produced pieces – made in a factory – will always struggle to keep up when measured against these 3 criteria:

#1 Quality craftsmanship

Quality is always a persuasive argument in any retail discussion. From clothes and shoes to art and furniture – people are prepared to pay more for something because it will last or because it can be passed down to the next generation. This is where antique furniture shines really bright. In a disposable age, investing in antique furniture is a refreshing sustainable narrative that not only looks good in any space in our homes but also makes us feel good. So start with a solid wood antique armoire, chest of draws or kist – each will become a focal point and conversation piece.

Antique furniture ‘hits the nail on the head’ thanks to the quality artisanal handcrafted skills related to materials, craftsmanship and workmanship; resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces that will stand the test of time. Adding such a piece to your home will always add ‘life’ to your decor and an elusive quality that will make visitors to your space want to linger awhile.

#2 Timeless trends

Mass-produced furniture fads come and go, but there is a customised and handcrafted distinctiveness to antique furniture that will always stand the test of time. Antique and vintage pieces easily transition into any space or design aesthetic – from old-school traditional and French rustic to contemporary chic and modern minimalist.

This mix-and-match ability of antiques– over hundreds of years – still adds the wow factor and is a tribute to the beauty and design distinctiveness of antique furniture design over the centuries. You will want a piece of this in your home.

The timeless beauty of antique chandeliers will always set the scene in any room, and then there is the functional and visual glam of vintage mirrors. And then there is the versatility of occasional antique chairs,

#3 Subtle storytelling

A room in your home is not neutral. The walls, space options and architectural features are all the backdrop to a story and memories. And in interior design, the art of storytelling is not about words, but about the combination and energy of specially selected and curated furniture and accessories.

Antique furniture already has a backstory that is rich in history and craftsmanship features that can set the tone for the rest of your aesthetic or be the finishing and complementary touch to a room that contains mass-produced pieces. The only difference is that 50 years from now, only the antique pieces will still be standing. Mass-produced furniture is simply not built to last.

Start your antique furniture journey at the Crown Collection

A trip to The Crown Collection – online or in-store – is the simplest way for you to not only indulge your love of antiques but also source vintage, French or antique finds that will tick quality, timelessness and storytelling boxes.

With over 5000 hand-picked antiques to choose from, we are convinced you will find something that will fit in your home. And if the finish is not exactly what you are looking for, our in-house restorers will gild it, paint technique it or stain it.

Shop online or visit us at 20 Ballyclare Drive, c/o Galway Road, Bryanston and get up to 30% off.

Indulge your love of French styles at The Crown Collection antique emporium

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique French furniture, French Chateau Style, French Farmhouse Style, French Provencal Style, French styles interior design|

“Nous sommes amoureux des styles français” – we are in love with French styles. (It only seemed appropriate to start this blog in French). There is no denying that when it comes to French food, wine, perfume, and fashion, the French flair and penchant for refinement are unmatched. And that quintessential “je ne sais quoi” seamlessly translates into their timeless interior decor trends.

French styles of interior design tell a story that has been inspired over hundreds of years by culture, history, landscape and lifestyle. That is why it works in any home and why we cannot get enough of French furniture and accessories.

The effortlessly chic way the French decorate their homes “brings together the iconic character and elegance of the space with practical luxury.” – Betsy Kasha

From a “pied-à-terre” (small apartment) to a “grande maison” (large house), curating your space – French style – will always add a sense of casual sophistication. The allure is captivating and irresistible and it is so easy to bring the signature elements and lived-in warmth into your own home.

If you are ready to start your hunt for antique French pieces, we highlight some of the key elements of three French styles.

#1 French Farmhouse

If you are looking for the epitome of rustic charm, then the French Farmhouse style is it. Exterior pastel shutters usher you into a welcoming interior with stone floors, light wood tones and simply shaped furniture.

Decorative bird cages, rattan storage baskets and rattan chairs will be casually placed to create a soulful balance and weathered comfort. The spaces almost look un-decorated and yet there is harmony and a subtle curated intent. Although the overall palette is muted and monochromatic, colour beckons under a glass cloche in the form of macarons or petit fours as well as oversized blooms randomly placed in glass vases.

The French celebrate age and tradition which celebrates distressed furniture and scratches. And a faded or fraying Aubusson rug is the perfect floor covering in a French Farmhouse aesthetic.

#2 French Provencal

Anyone who has travelled to the region of Provence cannot depart without leaving part of their heart behind as fields of lavender and olive orchards weave their magical spell. That landscape is beautifully translated into a French Provencal style aesthetic that includes exposed stones, whitewashed walls and a dreamy colour palette of ochres, lavender blues and olive greens. The overall finish is warm, friendly and cheerful – much like the people.

intrinsic to the Provencal decor style is the blending of the French countryside with the Parisian elegance and dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries when the peasant classes wanted to decorate their houses with furniture similar to the kings but on a smaller budget. This featured elements such as console tables, writing desks and ornate mirrors. Bleached wood is one of the signature elements of this style.

Wrought iron is a material that features strongly French provencal decor – from beds and outdoor furniture to lanterns. Ceramic pottery, pitchers and concrete urns and planters are also key elements of French Provencal style decor.

#3 French Chateau

Although all French styles are characterised by a relaxed and eclectic simplicity, the French chateau-style (aka Chateauesque) adds a touch of luxurious and ornate whimsy. The decor story originates in grand houses furnished with bronze accessories, crystal chandeliers and walls with mouldings, wallpaper, portraits and tapestries.

Decadently patterned upholstered gilded armchairs, chaise lounges, clawfoot tub baths, elaborate mirrors and silver candelabras finish off the French chateau design brief. If you are going to go all out on French chateau-style, then quality antique pieces have to play a role and be centre stage.

Visit the Crown Collection for some French-style inspiration

Your French-style decor passion – be that natural materials, muted colours, toile fabrics, extravagant lighting, touches of gold gilding on mirrors, chairs, settees or tapestries – will easily be satisfied at The Crown Collection.

Whether your French look and feel is Farmhouse, Provencal, Chateau or an eclectic mix, we have the largest selection of antique French furniture, wall decor and accessories.

Choose your items and buy them online or visit the store @ 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston. We deliver to your door.

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3 Reasons to invest in an antique armoire

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique & vintage furniture, Antique armoire, Antique linen press, Dutch bombe cabinet, French armoire, Vintage armoire|

You say “wardrobe, cupboard or closet,” we say “armoires and Dutch bombe cabinets.” But we are not going to quibble over terminology because when it comes to statement pieces, hero pieces, accent pieces or conversation pieces – antique and vintage armoires are simply awesome and tick every box. An artisanal celebration of form and function, these period pieces – in all shapes and sizes – are a must-have in every home.

Simply defined, an armoire is a large cabinet or wardrobe with panelled doors – in wood, glass or mirrors – featuring shelves, hanging space and draws. Antique armoires are handmade from solid wood – oak, walnut, mahogany, ash, rosewood etc – and have a longstanding reputation for their craftsmanship and decorative detailing.

As a collector or lover of antique furniture and vintage pieces, an armoire is that one piece that adds the practical wow factor and is a great addition to modern spaces.

If you still need persuading, here are 3 reasons to inspire you to add an antique or vintage armoire to your home:

#1 They are so functional

A vintage or antique armoire is hands down one of the best purchases you can make when it comes to decor investment pieces. Not only will they hold their value, but they also tick the sustainability box and offer a variety of functional storage solutions over the long term.

No matter what you want to store, an armoire puts its best foot forward in every room of the house – from books, linen and clothing to toys, dinner services, silverware and even pantry staples.

#2 They are so versatile

It might sound like we are beating the same drum, but there are so many reasons to recommend an armoire. Their unique versatility lies in the various styles that you find with each telling a different story; adding a bespoke element to your design scheme. There is one that is just right for every style of home.

One of our favourites is a classic and timeless antique French armoire. You have so many options to choose from – French Provincial, Art Deco, French Country, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Rococo, Louis Philippe, and Louis XV styles. The romance associated with French furniture and the ornate inlays and decorative embellishments make these highly desirable. (And then you might as well add a chandelier to complete the French chic aesthetic).

A conversation about armoires is not complete without shining the spotlight on Dutch bombe cabinets and Dutch cupboards. These 18th and 19th-century ‘armoires’ create a grand presence in any room. Dutch cabinet makers were the first to include marquetry, parquetry, linefold decoration, lacquered panels and veneer over carved oak pieces. Another mark of Dutch furniture craftsmen was their artisanal inventiveness and high standard of construction.

Showcasing an antique Dutch bombe cabinet or linen press/armoire in your home is the epitome of a functional and versatile hero piece. The upper part of the cabinet generally has an arched moulded cornice centred by carved scrollwork with doors enclosing shelves and drawers. The lower part has a bombe design – two short and two long drawers – inlaid with floral marquetry and raised on ball-and-claw feet.

#3 They are so beautiful

The visually interesting elements, decorative hardware and different woods all contribute to antique and vintage armoires excelling in the beauty category. Because they take up more vertical space than horizontal space, they are ideally suited to smaller footprint spaces; adding a timeless and beautiful decor element to any contemporary house, townhouse or apartment.

Armoires are the one timeless piece of antique furniture that interior designers gravitate towards to boost your decor statement and solve your storage issues. One of these highly sought after pieces deserves a place in your home and will complement any space.

The Crown Collection

As the largest emporium of curated and handpicked antique and vintage items in South Africa, The Crown Collection needs to be your first stop when sourcing the perfect armoire to furnish your home.

But whatever vintage accessory or piece of furniture you are looking for, The Crown Collection is a treasure trove of antique delights. Visit us at our studio at 10 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston, or indulge your passion for antiques by shopping online. (We deliver nationwide).

Start by browsing all our antique armoires, Dutch bombe cabinets and linen presses.

5 Reasons shopping for antiques is a decor no-brainer

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique furniture, Chinese yoke chairs, Shopping for antiques, Vintage pieces|

The resurgence of incorporating antiques into modern interiors continues to gain momentum. Mid-century modern decor and vintage-inspired aesthetics have been reimagined to fit 21st-century design narratives. And across the globe, interior decorators and homeowners are embracing the rich heritage of antique furniture to perfectly counterbalance contemporary spaces.

“I know that personally I could not decorate a house, let alone live in one, without antiques! Decorating with antiques adds character, charm and elusive gravitas to a scheme” – Henriette von Stockhausen (Top English Interior Designer and owner of VSP Interiors).

Gone are the days when traditional antiques represented old and stuffy museum-like spaces. There is a fresh twist when antique pieces and vintage items are added to modern interiors; transforming rooms with a seamless, layered look that transcends time.

If your home needs gorgeous personality, bespoke character, one-of-a-kind charm and a sense of story, then a well-placed antique is the solution. It will look like it has been there forever!

Let’s highlight 5 reasons why adding antiques – no matter what your style – is a no-brainer:

#1 The sustainability factor

Conscious consumerism and slow furniture are hot topics in the decor and design industry. This has created renewed interest in antiques as they become an authentic player in this conversation. There is no denying that antique furniture is an environmentally-responsible and sustainable way of decorating your home in the face of a throw-away culture.

Antique furniture celebrates solid wood and unique craftsmanship. Re-using these quality ‘traditional’ pieces of artisanal furniture in modern schemes significantly reduces our carbon footprint compared to new and mass-produced furniture.

#2 The wow factor

There is nothing that says ‘hero or statement piece’ in a contemporary space more than a well-selected antique or vintage item. Antiques have the ability to transform any space into a dream space. In the kitchen, an ebonised desk and chandelier will transform it from bland and boring to charming and indulgent. A Victorian secretaire will add warmth, character and show-stopping storage to a bathroom or bedroom. Mirrors (we have over 300 to choose from) and kists were made for any room, but are especially good at redefining an entrance hall. (We have an entire blog dedicated to how antiques can help make an entrance to your home).

#3 The versatility factor

In interior design circles, there is a move away from a cookie-cutter decor story or ‘showroom’ look. Discerning homeowners are looking for a layered aesthetic that will give their spaces a ‘collected-over-time’ feel that is personal, unique and timeless. Mixing antique furniture and vintage items with newer pieces seamlessly brings in this depth and history. It can be as easy as adding a pair of Chinese yoke back chairs to a rustic contemporary farmhouse design. Their simple sculptural shapes are the perfect balance to a modern minimalist room

No matter what space we are talking about – indoors or outdoors – the versatility of vintage and antique options makes them the perfect accent pieces. When something is missing from a modern space, the likely solution is an antique.

#4 The price factor

The price tag cannot be ignored, but generally speaking – unless we are talking about a rare collectable – antiques are not necessarily more expensive than good quality new furniture. (They obviously cannot be compared to the affordability of mass-produced items – but the quality, durability, sustainability and longevity of these cheaper items do not match those of antiques.).

And then, of course, there is the investment factor and the appreciation of antiques over time. The fact that antiques will not only retain their value but are likely to appreciate in value compared to their contemporary machine-made counterparts, make them definitely worth investing in. So add a few pieces that you love and up the beauty in your home.

#5 The Crown Collection

If you are not yet persuaded as to the beautiful allure of antiques, then you have not yet stepped into The Crown Collection emporium, where over 5000 antique, French, contemporary and vintage items await. This curated treasure trove of antiques is hand-selected – from chandeliers and objets d’art to armoires, daybeds and everything in between. (Enjoy 30% off your purchase until 31st March 2022 – just another reason to shop for antiques!).

Visit our blog page for more inspiration and ideas on how to include antiques – of all shapes and sizes – into your home.

Finding the perfect antiques to complement your decor style is as simple as shopping online. Or visit us in the studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

Black & white with a touch of antique furniture

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique and vintage furniture, Antique and Vintage lighting, Antique and vintage mirrors, Antique armoires, Antique furniture and accessories, Antique furniture store|

Opposites attract and in this case, a black and white palette attracts antique furniture; the perfect complement to a timeless and classic design aesthetic. Black and white interiors are a basic monochrome and minimalistic decor solution that make a bold and striking statement. But the stark sophistication and drama need to be softened with a layered storytelling element for warmth, depth and richness.

Antique furniture and vintage pieces are the obvious solutions to balance the polar opposites of a black and white interior design narrative.

‘The Illuminati’

The simplest way to up the ante and create interest in a monochromatic space is with lighting. Antique chandeliers and vintage lighting options become the obvious solution to achieve this; the decorative designs, shapes and materials available will create the perfect mix-and-match element to ‘ground’ a black and white scheme. It’s all about layering the interest.

‘Smoke and mirrors’

Every space in your home deserves a mirror. And when it comes to antique furniture and vintage accessories, mirrors take the lead. Wooden, bleached, painted or gilded, they help any black and white scheme become the fairest of them all. They reflect light, enhance a space and add beautiful architectural contrast in a contemporary setting.

‘The colour purple’

A black and white palette becomes the perfect excuse to add a feminine hint of colour and texture; saving a scheme from masculine monotony or being cold and clinical. (In feng shui this is a yin and yang moment). No matter where your heart lies on the colour wheel, an antique or vintage occasional upholstered chair is a versatile supporting actor. Playful interest is always welcome when looking to add personality to a space. (And remember – gold is also a colour!).

‘See the wood for the trees’

Speaking of colour, antique furniture is a ‘green’ eco solution. The visual warmth of natural wood elements is the ultimate in sustainable design elegance, elevating any contemporary monochrome space. Darker wood antique pieces will add historical drama and presence while lighter-toned wooden pieces will counterbalance the serious black and white tones with a relaxed warm French or rustic vibe. Your wooden antique and vintage options are broad – from imposing armoires and smaller wooden kists to decorative screens and grandfather clocks (which are timeless).

‘On display’

Antique accessories and vintage items – glass pitchers, porcelain vases, silverware, candlesticks, antique books, artworks and concrete busts – are where you get to have a little decor fun and add some whimsical charm against a black and white backdrop. Arranging vignettes of objets d’art on a side table or shelves keeps your eye engaged and gives dynamic context to a neutral palette. Your room will come to life with these curated decorative and eclectic groupings.

‘The Crown Collection’

There is only one emporium that will satisfy your antique curiosity and deliver on the largest collection of vintage, French and antique furniture in South Africa. With over 5000 items in stock, The Crown Collection is a space where you can indulge your antique design creativity in one place and shop to your heart’s content.

Browse and shop all our collections online or visit us in-studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

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