Antique furniture and accessories Archives

Conversation settees | The ultimate antique ‘conversation piece’ in a modern setting

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Adding antiques to contemporary spaces, Antique furniture and accessories, antique loveseats, conversation settees|

You don’t get a more literal and surprising ‘conversation starter’ than an antique conversation settee (aka a loveseat). These rare but delightful French-style pieces blend elegance with functionality and are wonderful, eclectic additions to modern living rooms, entrance halls and dressing rooms. Their intricate designs, rich history and romantic charm make them a beloved choice for those looking to infuse contemporary living spaces with classical sophistication.

Even though these traditional pieces are deeply rooted in the past, conversation settees should be considered as versatile seating options in contemporary interiors.

A brief backstory

Knowing the historical context of conversation settees contributes to their value and design interest in your home.

Rooted in the elegant social customs of the 17th and 18th centuries – and a staple in British and French salons and drawing rooms – they were originally designed for intimate tête-à-têtes and leisurely conversations. Their unique design facilitated close conversation, allowing couples or friends to converse privately while maintaining proper decorum.

Over time, these ‘loveseats’ and conversation settees evolved from the ornate, carved wood and upholstered styles of the Rococo and Victorian eras to the sleek, minimalist designs of modern interiors. Today, they continue to symbolise comfort and connection, offering a stylish and cosy seating option that blends seamlessly into various decor styles.

Somehow loveseats always just make people smile; there’s something so playful and joyful about them. –Nicola Harding & Co

Choosing the right conversation settee or loveseat

Because of their compact size and elegant appearance, conversation settees are perfect for creating cosy nooks and adding a touch of glamour to any room.

When selecting a conversation settee or loveseat, consider the following:

Style and period: Whether it’s the Rococo style’s intricate carvings or the Georgian period’s clean lines, choose a settee that resonates with your personal taste.
Condition: Make sure the settee is in good condition, with sturdy frames and intact upholstery. Authenticity and quality are paramount.
Colour and fabric: Look for fabrics that complement your existing colour scheme. Reupholstering in contemporary fabrics—such as linens or velvets—will also provide a modern twist.

Integrating conversation settees into modern interiors

As far as statement pieces go, antique loveseats and conversation settees are certainly not subtle additions to a contemporary home. As a bold choice, getting the balance right between old and new can be tricky.

Eclectic harmony: Combining your antique settee with modern furniture pieces – such as a sleek, glass coffee table or minimalist side tables – creates a curated, eclectic look that highlights the beauty of both old and new. Use neutral tones for your walls and larger furniture pieces to let the settee stand out as a statement piece.
Modern minimalism: An antique conversation settee can serve as a focal point in a minimalist space. Choose one with simple lines and more subtle detailing to maintain a clean aesthetic. Complement the settee with monochromatic or muted colour palettes. A white or light grey backdrop can make the settee’s intricate details pop without overwhelming the space.
Bold contrasts: The brave design juxtaposition of placing a richly coloured or dark wood conversation settee in a bright, contemporary room will get tongues wagging (in a good way). The contrast will draw attention to the settee and create visual interest. Incorporate modern art or abstract patterns in cushions and rugs to bridge the gap between antique and contemporary elements.
Functional decor: Using antique loveseats in functional spaces like reading nooks, bay windows, or even at the foot of a bed adds charm while serving a practical purpose. Modern lighting – such as a sleek floor lamp or contemporary chandelier – enhances the blending of the past and the present and updates the decor narrative.
Textural play: A successful ‘mix and match’ interior design philosophy will always leverage a variety of textures to create a dynamic and inviting space. Pair the rich fabrics of the antique conversation settee with contemporary materials like metal, glass, and polished wood. Add plush throws and modern cushions for comfort and style to create an inviting old-world elegance and modern cosiness.

Adding the finishing touches

Conversation settees are investment furniture heroes, but they rely on a few supporting items to make them appear cohesive and harmonious in modern spaces. Accessorising your space with thoughtfully chosen pieces, soft furnishings and objects will further enhance their integration into your home.

Artwork and mirrors: Hang contemporary art or a modern mirror above the settee to create a cohesive look.
Rugs and curtains: Choose modern rugs and curtains that complement the upholstery of the antique loveseat or conversation settee. Geometric patterns or solid colours provide a striking contrast.
Greenery: Indoor plants bring freshness and vitality to any space, and modern planters beautifully complement a conversation settee or loveseat.

Start your antique conversation at The Crown Collection

We believe two things make a room timeless: a sense of history and a piece of the future. At The Crown Collection décor store and emporium, you will likely fall for our handpicked loveseats and conversation settees.

You can create a stylish and sophisticated space by carefully selecting the suitable antique settee and thoughtfully blending it with modern elements. Sync the artisanal beauty of the past with the pared-back innovation of the present, and let your antique conversation settee become the centrepiece of any modern space.

Visit us online or pop in at our decor studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

If you love an item, make a reasonable offer.

The resurgence of antique dome chairs in modern interior design

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: `antiques in contemporary spaces, Antique furniture and accessories, Antique store, canopy chairs, Dome chairs|

If you weren’t born with blue blood, never fear, because the welcome return of the antique dome chair as a design element is all you need to feel like royalty. Reintroducing these oversized traditional chairs into contemporary spaces will create a stately narrative with each one promising lasting appeal as investment furniture.

Antique dome chairs are regal and ornate seating options that epitomise timeless charm and sophistication; effortlessly elevating any room they feature in. It’s no wonder interior designers and homeowners are falling in love with these pieces all over again.

The backstory of dome chairs

Often referred to interchangeably as Dome, Canopy, Balloon or Versailles chairs, they have a rich history rooted in 17th-century France; particularly the Baroque and Rococo periods. Originally crafted for royalty and aristocracy, these chairs were characterised by their distinctive dome-shaped or canopy-like backs, which provided a sense of privacy and grandeur for private tête-à-têtes as well as offering protection from cool drafts.

The defining artisanal design features are aimed at creating a regal ambience suitable for the opulent palaces of the time; such as the Palace of Versailles. These chairs were not only functional but also symbolic of status and power. But over time, their popularity spread beyond the aristocracy, and they became emblematic of luxury and sophistication, finding their place in elegant interiors across the world.

Today, dome chairs continue to evoke a sense of historical grandeur and remain coveted pieces in interior design, offering both elegance and comfort to those who appreciate craftsmanship and story.

Reasons why designers are embracing dome chairs

Their huge impact: As part of the growing slow furniture movement – and in an attempt to push back against mass-production practices – interior designers and homeowners are drawn to antique dome and canopy chairs for their unique ability to infuse unexpected spaces with a touch of grandeur and old-world charm while still feeling relevant in contemporary interiors. By evoking a sense of history and refinement, they are the perfect juxtaposition pieces to create balance in modern minimalist design aesthetics.

Their distinctive silhouettes: The distinctive silhouette and elaborate embellishments of dome chairs serve as focal points within a room, instantly drawing the eye and adding a sense of drama and flair to any space.

Their versatile elegance: Despite their ornate appearance, antique dome chairs possess a surprising versatility that allows them to complement a wide range of interior styles. Whether paired with sleek, modern furnishings for a striking contrast or incorporated into more traditional decor for a cohesive look, these chairs effortlessly adapt to their surroundings.

Their quality craftsmanship: One of the most compelling reasons designers are gravitating towards antique dome chairs is their unparalleled craftsmanship. Meticulously handcrafted using premium materials such as hardwoods, rich fabrics, and intricate carvings, they are beautiful and durable and will last for generations.

How to incorporate dome chairs into your modern home

Choose the right setting: Antique dome chairs thrive in spaces where they can take centre stage. Consider placing them in prominent areas such as the living room, foyer, or master bedroom, where their bold visual and functional beauty can be fully appreciated.

Pair with modern accents: Create visual interest by juxtaposing the classic elegance of antique dome chairs with contemporary accents. Mix and match styles, textures, and finishes to achieve a curated, eclectic look that feels both timeless and of the moment.

Opt for neutral upholstery: To ensure your antique dome chairs seamlessly blend with your existing decor, opt for neutral upholstery colours such as cream, taupe, or soft grey. These versatile hues provide a sophisticated backdrop that allows the chairs’ intricate details to shine.

Accessorise thoughtfully: Enhance the presence of your antique dome chairs by adding complementary elements such as throw pillows, accent rugs, and decorative lighting. Incorporating lush fabrics, metallic accents, and ornate mirrors can further elevate the overall aesthetic of the space.

Embrace symmetry: Create a sense of balance and harmony by arranging your antique dome chairs symmetrically within a room. Flank them on either side of a fireplace, console table, or oversized mirror to achieve a visually pleasing arrangement that exudes elegance and refinement.

If you are in search of a statement-making showstopper for your home, dome chairs will always draw attention and be a success. Depending on the material finishes or upholstery choices, they can either blend in or stand out. But either way, they will never be ‘shrinking violets’ in the world of interior design. Rather, they become defining moments in the framework of any room.

Dome chairs at The Crown Collection

Whether you introduce a pair of these oversized antique beauties, or just one, canopy and dome chairs are exquisite investment pieces and an exciting interior design choice for multiple spaces in your home.

At The Crown Collection décor store, you will likely discover the ideal dome and canopy chair(s) to suit your home from our curated selection. From intricately carved wooden frames to sumptuous upholstery options, each chair exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication; offering

With options handpicked for their timeless elegance and charm, we offer any discerning buyer an unparalleled assortment of antique, French and contemporary furniture pieces that celebrate meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

For striking visual appeal, enduring quality and unique pieces that will stand out in any home, shop our collection of dome chairs online or visit us in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

‘A Gilded Age’ | Touches of gold for furniture & accessories

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique furniture and accessories, Antique store, Gilded French pieces, Gilded furniture and accessories, GIlded mirrors, Gilded vintage and antique furniture, The Crown Collection gilded antiques|

When it comes to antiques with a particular French flair, all that glitters is definitely gold (apologies to the Bard). The age-old art of gilding – where 22-carat sheets of gold leaf are delicately applied to intricate surfaces – is the embodiment of an attention to detail and has been enchanting art connoisseurs, antique collectors and interior design enthusiasts for centuries. The world of gilded items, and its enduring influence on interior design, holds a timeless appeal for antique and French furniture and accessories for any space in your home.

In our modern age of disposable consumerism, a ‘gilded age’ of antique furniture and accessories serves as a much-needed testament to the enduring appeal of artistry and quality. Gilded antiques carry whispers of bygone eras, connecting us with a rich, but often forgotten, heritage of craftsmanship.

Each gilded stroke tells a tale, making these decor items storytellers in the grand tapestry of design history.

The backstory of gilded antiques

Gracing the homes of the affluent and influential throughout history, the time-honoured craft of gilding is an ancient art that dates back to the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. The process involves applying thin layers of gold leaf to various surfaces, turning mundane objects into exquisite works of art.

This meticulous technique requires a specialist skillset, focused precision and an unwavering commitment to perfection, which is why gilded pieces are considered the epitome of craftsmanship.

Because of the use of precious metals, gilded items tend to cost more but are investment pieces that are ‘worth their weight in gold.’

The timeless allure of gilded items

The visual reference to gilded antiques and French furniture and accessories suggests timeless opulence, luxury and extravagance. (What room doesn’t deserve such a bold statement piece?). And there is no restriction to adding a golden hue to items: from mirrors, clocks, lamps and chandeliers to frames, chairs, riempie benches and console tables.

The decorative elegance of gilded antiques – especially suited to French furniture and accessories – goes beyond their historical significance. They infuse a space with an unparalleled sense of drama and sophistication. The delicate play of light on gilded surfaces evokes a sense of grandeur that resonates with modern interior design styles. By incorporating these elements into your home, you can effortlessly transform any space.

The gilded touch to elevate modern spaces

One of the most compelling aspects of gilded antique furniture and accessories is their ability to seamlessly integrate with contemporary decor. Whether it’s a gilded mirror hanging above a minimalist console or a lavishly gilded chandelier suspended in a sleek, modern room, these pieces bridge the gap between old and new beautifully; serving as timeless anchors that add depth and character to 21st-century interiors.

The innate tasteful and refined nature of gilded pieces makes them the perfect addition to modern contexts and seamless response to new interior design trends.

Choosing the perfect gilded piece

The unique beauty of gilded decor lies in its versatility, allowing you to find the perfect balance between old-world charm and contemporary aesthetic

But before embarking on your journey to incorporate gilded antique furniture or accessories into your design, it is worth remembering that every choice should reflect your personal style and taste. Consider the scale, style, and specific gilding technique used in the piece, as it will influence the overall decor story and ambience you wish to create.

As a contrast or focal point, gilded items create a perfect decorative moment in traditional, modern, minimalist or maximalist interiors. Their ornate designs cleverly juxtapose the clean lines and simplicity of contemporary design, resulting in a harmonious balance, or perfectly pair with more decorative detailing of French interior design principles.

For simple decor inspiration, take note of how to pair gilded furniture and accessories with new design trends: gold and black, gold and ivory, gold and colour, gold and animal print, and gold and wood.

Your gilded journey starts at The Crown Collection

The art of gilding – which has been passed down through generations – has found a home at

The Crown Collection; South Africa’s finest and largest emporium of curated antiques. We also house a premium range of hand-selected gilded furniture and accessories and, should you require your chosen piece to be gilded, our in-house restoration experts will gild the item for you.

Visit us online – or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston – where we offer a discount from 10-20% on gilded antiques (depending on the item).

How to mix smart and casual furniture and accessories

Categories: Blog, Style|Tags: Antique chandeliers, Antique French furniture, Antique furniture and accessories, Mixing contemporary and antique furniture, Mixing smart and casual furniture and accessories|

Fashion and interior design principles have always overlapped, with one influencing the other. ‘Smart casual’ is a fashion term that has successfully transitioned into the world of interiors, being the inspiration for spaces that are a blend of refined, stylish, elegant, rustic, eclectic and relaxed. Mixing and matching antiques with modern pieces has always been popular, but that is evolving to embrace the collaboration of smart and casual furniture and accessories.

Mixing smart and casual furniture from different design eras is a relatively new decor philosophy, although the French have always been at the pioneering forefront of this look.

When you are brave enough to curate different styles, colours and textures together in one space, the result is always a welcoming ‘lived-in’ feel that celebrates an effortless narrative that is both strikingly smart and casually informal.

The ‘smart casual’ design brief is open to interpretation and the scope of furniture and accessories is vast. Antique furniture can be both, and contemporary pieces also straddle the fence with formal and informal options that speak to all personal decor preferences.

So don’t limit your decor approach by assuming that the smart casual look is only limited to pairing an antique item with a modern piece. It is so much more fluid than that.

The smart casual approach to ‘dressing’ a room

As with fashion, mixing trendier pieces with classic antique staples mitigates an outfit or room looking too formal or that you tried too hard. The goal is a space where the furniture pieces and accessories look pulled together but in an interesting and approachable way. It’s all about playing with design elements.

You have 3 choices:

#1 The top-to-bottom approach is where you start with smart or formal lighting options such as an antique crystal chandelier and then your dining room table, living room chairs, bed or side table choices are casual, relaxed pieces. (This is akin to the timeless look of sneakers and ripped jeans paired with a silk blouse and diamond earrings.).

#2 The bottom-to-top approach is simply the decor inverse. You may have a really formal dining room table, living room chairs or Persian carpet, and then as your eye travels up the room, you add casual hanging lanterns for lighting or fun informal artwork or mirror collages on the wall. (Imagine stilettos and smart trousers with an oversized cotton shirt and denim jacket).

#3 The eclectic-ensemble approach is where the rule book is thrown out the window. This is a daring experimental mix-and-match approach to smart and casual furniture and accessories. Take a smart antique Persian carpet, a really rustic dining room table, in-your-face bold modern chairs, a smart chandelier and a couple of casual bookshelves or a Riempie bench. On their own, the individual pieces wouldn’t seem to sync with each other, but once placed together, a cohesive story emerges and the look just makes sense. (High heels, casual jeans, a T-shirt, a blazer and a crossover bag are your fashion inspiration for this look).

Avoiding a ‘mismatched’ smart casual look

Knowing how far to go and which smart antique, vintage or modern furniture and accessories will best complement casual pieces does take a little skill to create a cohesive aesthetic. There is a fine line between restrained and effortless versus over-the-top and chaotic.

Making an overall room work often comes down to colours and textures that you pull throughout the room.

#1 Choose a common, repetitive thread. This could be a furniture style – such as French or mid-century vintage – or a colour, pattern or texture that weaves through the room to anchor the look and make sense. Once that starting point is decided on, building up the layers by adding a few smart or casual furniture or accessories as a counterbalance will do the trick. (This works particularly well in monochromatic schemes).

#2 Let the colour wheel guide you. If you love a little colour personality, then a neutral base shade with two complementary colours always works. (You can also use different hues of a specific colour to up the ante for additional design interest). Using a darker palette in your furniture with lighter accessories and walls – or vice versa – will be a successful decor dialogue.

#3 Less is more (in principle not necessarily pieces). The principle of ‘less is more’ will be the restraint to make sure that you cleverly curate the collection of pieces that make it into any space of your home and don’t mix and match too many different types of antiques, colours, styles or eras in one space. You can always slowly build up a look, but overdone is overwhelming and the goal is to avoid visual noise and clutter. Your eyes need to have the opportunity to rest and enjoy well-placed and carefully chosen smart and casual furniture and accessories in a room.

Spaces that are warm, comfortable and inviting, but that also boast a sophisticated designer edge start with the flair of mixing smart and casual furniture and accessories. Even if you only collect antiques, are a fan of exclusively mid-century modern furniture or are only in love with modern pieces, the interior design philosophy will speak your unique decor language.

So have a little fun by starting your mix-and-match journey at The Crown Collection; the home of handpicked smart and casual antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories.

The ‘Riempie’ bench | A South African antique collectable

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique furniture and accessories, Antique Riempie furniture, Antique store, Riempie benches, Riempie chairs|

Growing up in South Africa means certain antique furniture pieces are part of our historical DNA. One such item is the much-loved Riempie bench; a staple in homes since Jan Van Riebeeck’s arrival in the Cape of Good Hope in 1652. As the Dutch settlement grew, so did their need for furniture. Qualified woodworking artisans started making furniture and passing on their skills to the local indigenous peoples who started producing various copies of Indo-Dutch, French and German-style pieces.

Introducing a piece of South Africa’s heritage

The South African Riempie bench became a design adaptation when local carpenters replaced the cane or reed seating with ‘riempies’ (thin strips of cured leather). These riempies were more easily obtainable and more durable than their imported woven counterparts.

The crafting of Riempie benches is a labour-intensive process that has been passed down through generations. Skilled artisans carefully weave the riempie leather strips across the frame, creating a strong, comfortable and visually distinctive seat.

The Riempie ‘stoel’ then became popular among the 1820 British settlers who were on the move and needed sturdy but lightweight chairs that utilised materials that were readily available. It wasn’t long before Riempie benches and chairs were to be found in most of our ancestors’ homes as timeless South African classics.

Blending history with modern interior design

The functional design of Riempie benches and chairs makes them one of the easiest antique additions in contemporary spaces. They just work in so many different set-ups: in hallways, at a dining table, as a desk chair, or perched at the end of a bed.

As versatile antiques, Riempie benches and chairs have not lost their charm or investment value. Delightful examples are the ‘Tolletjie’ (spindle) chair – dating back to the 17th century – often made from Cape Stinkwood, Cape Keurboom or Yellowwood (boasting turned elements and interwoven riempies for the seat), and 19th-century Tulbagh transitional chairs. It’s fair to say that Riempie benches have their design ‘roots’ deeply embedded in South African history.

The riempies are also incredibly strong, and if they become worn over time, can simply be replaced. The weaving together of the untanned leather strips for the seat is a unique design feature and makes any space that these antique Riempie benches inhabit feel light and airy.

Incorporating Riempie benches into your decor

Choose the right Riempie piece: When selecting an antique Riempie bench or chair, consider the existing colour palette, proportions and style of your space. Up the ante by bleaching, staining or painting them to become fun contemporary conversation pieces.

Mix the old with new: One of the most captivating aspects of Riempie furniture is its ability to blend seamlessly with modern design. Pair an antique Riempie bench with sleek, contemporary furniture to create a striking contrast.

Create a focal point: Positioning your Riempie bench strategically will make it a statement piece in the room. Its unique texture and design craftsmanship will draw the eye, adding cultural character, warmth and a touch of ‘South Africana.’

Accessorise thoughtfully: Let Riempie pieces become the ‘base’ or backdrop for complementary furniture pieces and accessories: rustic throws, tribal-inspired cushions, wooden side tables or standing lamps.

Shopping locally for antique Riempie furniture

The Crown Collection – South Africa’s largest emporium of handpicked antiques – is the obvious starting point to furnish your space with a Riempie bench or a couple of Riempie occasional chairs. Or go all out and buy a set of antique Riempie chairs to be the traditional seating options for a modern dining room table.

Furniture trends may come and go, but the Riempie bench will always be a timeless South African classic that connects the past with the present and adds a nostalgic decor narrative to modern homes and lifestyles.

Pop in online – or in-studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston – to view our collection of Riempie benches and chairs.

Signature antique styles that deserve a decor moment in your home

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique furniture and accessories, Antique store, Antique styles for your modern home|

There are times when you walk into a room and something elusive makes you pause. At first glance, you are not quite sure what it is – an architectural element, the light, the layout? But as the visual beauty of the space introduces itself in individual parts, your eye lands on an antique piece and you have a decor ‘aha’ moment. A sense of authenticity prevails which just makes sense and beckons you to stay.

It is this timeless blend of the past and the present finding a natural rhythm that becomes the secret to contemporary aesthetics gaining substance from time-worn pieces.

And it is not necessarily down to one or two antique styles that take all the glory; each period of antique history makes its own special statement. Remove that chosen piece and the room would be found lacking.

Embracing unique furniture pieces or accessories from different antique styles takes its design cue from acknowledging the artisanal beauty, respecting the decorative skills and honouring the craftsmanship of furniture that is rooted in a different time but still belongs in modern-day homes.

You don’t need to be well-versed in the historical context (or timeline) of the many antique styles that date back centuries; you just have to appreciate the magic, story and versatility that these well-preserved and sustainable pieces will bring to your spaces.

Here at The Crown collection store, we have an enticing curated collection of hand-picked furniture and accessories from various antique styles that are ready and waiting to be included in your home.

Queen Anne style – a touch of grace

Taking us back to the early 18th century (1720 -1750), the antique style that epitomises Queen Anne’s reign showcases graceful, curved lines and decorative elements.

The femininity of cabriole legs, shell motifs and scalloped edges, as well as the delicate proportions of Walnut and Cherry pieces (with a touch of gilding), create a beautiful contrast to minimalistic and monochromatic contemporary design schemes.

Up the ante in any room with a Queen Anne-style piece from our collection:

A gilded and upholstered Queen Anne-style sofa
A Queen Anne Walnut chest on stand
An 18th-century Cape Stinkwood Traditional Tulbagh/Queen Anne Style Rusbank
A silver-plated Queen Anne teapot on a stand

Georgian style – a touch of classical symmetry

Roughly spanning 110 years (1714 – 1827), Georgian furniture – with its straight lines and restrained ornamentation – becomes a perfect pairing with modern design. The rich warmth of Mahogany and Walnut – often with brass fittings or inlays – makes Georgian pieces an elegant solution to transform your home.

Take your pick from the following Georgian antique-style pieces from our collection:

A Georgian Walnut chest-on-chest on bracket feet
A Georgian Flame Mahogany bow-fronted chest of drawers with brass handles
A Georgian mahogany mirror
A Pair of Georgian-style chairs

Regency style – a touch of the ornate

Known for their elegance and simplicity, furniture pieces from this antique style (1811 -1830) not only feature classical clean lines but also play with curved shapes and exotic materials such as Rosewood, Ebony and Mahogany with brass inlays or ormolu decoration.

Our collection of Regency antique-style pieces includes:

A selection of round Regency convex, concave and bevelled mirrors
A Regency Rosewood inlaid and folding card table (circa 1800) with the BADA stamp (British Antique Dealers Association) and brass beading on brass castors
A Regency carved bleached/natural Mahogany settee on castors
A pair of teak Regency-style leather chairs
A late Regency inlaid mahogany and Rosewood pedestal sideboard, fitted with original oval foliate brass escutcheons and loop handles and with a cellarette drawer
A Regency Mahogany secretaire/bookcase (circa 1820) with glazed cottage pane doors

Victorian style – a touch of opulence

From 1837-1901, Queen Victoria’s reign and personality had a significant influence on furniture and accessory design. Of all antique decor styles, Victorian pieces feature intricate carvings, ornate details, rich colours and plush upholstery fabrics. Mahogany, Walnut and Teak furniture items from this period will always create an opulent cosiness in your modern home.

From your dining room and kitchen to your bedroom or bathroom, our collection of Victorian-style pieces is just the inspiration you need to transform a space:

A Victorian Oak campaign military chest In two parts with brass escutcheons and gilt-tooled leather writing surface (circa 1890)
A Victorian English carved and bleached Oak armoire with bevelled mirror doors and two drawers
A pair of Victorian carved chairs with rattan seats
A 4-6 seater Victorian Oak square table with Castors
A Victorian Walnut, Mahogany and Burr-walnut pier cabinet with lock and key (circa 1905 )

Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles – touches of romance and glamour

Popular between 1890 and 1910 in Europe and the US, it is the flowing lines and organic shapes that define Art Nouveau furniture and accessories; merging nature, design and craftsmanship. Collectables from this style highlight curved lines and floral or plant motifs, and lighter woods such as Oak or Maple.

Items such as a pair of Art Nouveau Candelabras or an Art Nouveau gilt clock will certainly create a sense of romance and become conversation pieces.

Glamorous and luxurious, Art Deco pieces – spanning the 1920s and 1930s – rebelled against their predecessor and are known for their sleek, geometric forms and bold colours. Furniture pieces from this period often showcase shiny metallic finishes (such as chrome and glass) and exotic woods such as Rosewood or Macassar Ebony.

Add glamour to your guest room with a pair of Art Deco Walnut single beds, zhoosh up your drinks cabinet with an 8-piece Czech Art Deco Crystal Cocktail Set or entertain like the queen with a 4-piece silver-plated Art Deco tea service.

The Crown Collection is your obvious go-to antique store to indulge your love of all antique styles. This is where the sympathetic inclusion and eclectic layering of antique styles from different historical periods into modern spaces create personalised decor moments.

Confidently blending the past with the present is what will make your home a welcoming place that will beautifully tell your bespoke story and offer all those who cross your threshold a moment of pause.

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.

Antique kists & vintage chests – A beautiful & versatile decor solution

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: antique and vintage kists, antique and vintage trunks, antique chests, Antique furniture, Antique furniture and accessories, vintage chests|

When it comes to decor statement pieces in your home, we salute William Morris – the British textile designer – who was way ahead of his time and sprouted a decor philosophy that we should all follow: “If you want a golden rule that will fit everything, this is it: Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” And what could be more beautiful and functionally versatile than a decorative antique wooden kist or vintage chest to complement any design scheme?

In the furniture world, antique or vintage chests are classified as ‘case goods.’ They are also known as cassones, coffers, kists and trunks. But no matter how you refer to them, there isn’t a more stylish solution to up the ante in your spaces.

A beautiful solution

A wooden antique chest or decorative vintage kist is the one accessory that works in basically every room of the house; sprucing up kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, patios, dining rooms and lounges; transforming into stylish coffee tables, eclectic side tables and extra seating options.

Placed at the foot of the bed, next to a chair as a side table or holding centre stage in a living room, an antique trunk or quirky vintage kist will never fail to arouse design interest. Each one tells its own story from the past and adds irresistible decor charm and personality.

“People want to break away from the sameness of interiors and view antiques as a way to create something distinctive.” –Kimberley Wray.

Besides being a stylish and timeless showpiece – and depending on which room they end up in – they can also double up as the ideal storage solution for winter clothes, important papers, toys, blankets, linens or cushions.

A versatile solution

The added advantage of antique or vintage chests and kists is that they come in an array of different woods, finishes and design styles, so you are spoilt for choice – from teak and mahogany to rosewood and oak.

Go colonial with an 18th-century Dutch oak kist or regal with a James I carved oak chest. For a slightly more understated look, you can’t go wrong with an Anglo-Indian mahogany campaign trunk with brass detailing or a 20th Century Cape Stinkwood chest.

There is no doubt in the world of interior design that decorative vintage trunks and antique kists are the ultimate finishing touch to your home decor and there is just the right one to suit your style – from French rustic or traditional to midcentury modern or contemporary.

These incredibly beautiful and versatile pieces are highly collectable items and are becoming quite a rarity.

A sustainable solution

When you add sustainability to the conscious consumer conversation, these pieces of furniture hit the mark like no other. They are the definition of ‘upcycling’ and are the easiest way to mix something old in a contemporary decor setting.

Upcycling or restoring vintage and antique pieces of furniture baulks the trend of a ‘throwaway culture’ and is one way of reducing waste and our carbon footprint. And buying pre-loved furniture instead of its mass-produced counterparts extends its product life and further helps to minimize deforestation.

Antique chests and trunks that find their way into your home – instead of the skip – become an ongoing tribute to the artisanal skill and craftsmanship that go into making them. They are sustainable investment pieces that are likely to increase in value over time.

A local solution – The Crown Collection

Your love affair with all things antique – including chests, trunks, coffers and kists – starts at the Crown Collection, South Africa’s largest emporium of curated and handpicked collections of decorative antique, French, vintage, and contemporary furniture and accessories. We’re all about helping you find beautiful and useful pieces to add to your home.

Shop online or visit our studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

Set the scene with antique candelabra & vintage candlesticks

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique candelabra, Antique furniture and accessories, torchieres, vintage candlesticks, vintage furniture and accessories|

They could be referred to as the ‘poor man’s chandelier,’ but vintage candelabra have undergone a revolution in the decor industry. As highly sought after decorative styling pieces, their eclectic presence highlights any style or period – be that traditional, Gothic, French or contemporary.

Antique candlesticks, candelabra and torchieres are just the decorative accessories to add sophisticated elegance and a functional statement to any sideboard, table or occasion. And you can have so much fun accessorizing them and wowing your guests.

From crystal, silver or gilded to cast iron or bronze, their romantic glow and decorative elegance are unmatched.

Getting the terminology right

If you are going to talk about vintage or antique candlestick options, then semantics and jargon matter. Is it candelabra, candlestick or torchiere?

Nursery rhymes made us familiar with candlesticks – quick and nimble Jack jumping over one – and fairy tales delighted us with Beauty and the Beast’s Lumiere, the maître d’ turned candelabrum. (Speaking of which, candelabrum is the singular and candelabra the plural).

Antique candlesticks and candelabra comprise similar features with one defining difference; a candelabrum has ‘branches’ or ‘arms’ to hold more than one candle. (The ‘labra’ are the decorative arms).

An antique torchiere (torchère), dating back to 17th century France, is a tall metallic or wooden stand to hold a candle, candelabrum or lamp.

Getting the table setting right

Tablescaping is an industry term that simply refers to creating Instagram-worthy table settings that are works of decor art. And you cannot go wrong with vintage candlesticks and antique candelabra as your starting point centrepieces.

From a gothic 22-karat gold leaf hand gilded wrought iron torchiere, a set of traditional silver-plated candelabra, and a pair of rare 19th-century French bronze candle holders, to a pair of Baroque-style wooden carved altar pricket sticks or a pair of vintage Art Nouveau candelabra, these pieces are the quintessential decor bling for any occasion or event.

Planning an indoor formal event or a rustic outdoor garden celebration? Your solution to a beautiful and striking setting lies in these timeless and soft lighting options that add whimsical charm and wonder to any occasion.

For just the right romantic ambience and intimate illumination, vintage or antique candlesticks and candelabra add drama and bespoke personality, especially when partnered with the versatile accessorizing options of floral arrangements or simple greenery. Such artful centrepieces will always stand out from the crowd.

Getting antique shopping right at the Crown Collection

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice antique hunter, candlesticks and candelabra are the perfect starting point to any collection. Your journey to sourcing the perfect ‘lumiere’ starts at the Crown Collection, South Africa’s largest emporium of vintage and antique furniture items and accessories.

Should you require stripping, a paint technique, hand gilding or staining of any items, our professional craftsmen are onsite to give you the desired finish.