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.