`antiques in contemporary spaces Archives

The ‘ornate minimalist’ | Combining minimalism with a love for antiques

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: `antiques in contemporary spaces, antiques and minimalism, Mix antiques with modern decor, The Crown Collection decor store|

It’s time to introduce ‘Ornate Minimalism’; an emerging design trend that successfully bridges the gap between two contrasting aesthetics. This brave and unique approach to décor marries the clean, uncluttered ethos of contemporary minimalism with the intricate and decorative beauty of antique pieces, creating striking spaces that feel refined and rich in history.

But how does one blend these ‘opposite’ elements and design philosophies without overwhelming the senses? Is it even possible for antiques and contemporary minimalism to coexist in the same space without jarring the eye?

Absolutely! The key lies in balance, intentionality, and contrast. By carefully selecting statement antique pieces and placing them within a clean, uncluttered space, you can highlight their craftsmanship without overwhelming or detracting from the simplicity of minimalism.

Here’s our guide to curating a minimalist home with antique treasures.

Ornate minimalism explained | Simplicity meets antiquity

Ornate minimalism is the perfect blend of old and new, grandeur and simplicity, opulence and restraint.

By thoughtfully curating antiques, maintaining a neutral backdrop, and balancing intricate details with modern simplicity, you can achieve a timeless, elegant home that celebrates both the past and the present.

Nicola Harding, interior designer, highlights the dynamic created by embracing ornate minimalism: “Older pieces create a sense of history, of belonging; newer ones stop somewhere feeling stuffy. I like an unpredictable mix. The unexpected creates energy, makes for a talking point.”

Minimalism champions simplicity, neutral colour palettes, and an emphasis on open, breathable spaces. Ornate design, on the other hand, embraces the elaborate details, craftsmanship, and character that antiques bring to a home.

The beauty of ornate minimalism lies in its ability to incorporate antique statement pieces into a minimalist framework, allowing them to shine without overpowering the space.

Opposites attract | Combining contemporary minimalism with antiques

Embracing ornate minimalism means appreciating history while honouring contemporary sensibilities. With the right approach, your home can exude warmth, sophistication, and a seamless fusion of eras.

#1 Select statement antiques wisely

The secret to successfully merging these two styles is curation. Rather than cluttering your space with multiple antiques, choose one or two statement pieces – perhaps a gilded mirror, an intricately carved wooden cabinet, or a vintage chandelier – that will stand out against a clean and minimal backdrop.

#2 Maintain a neutral colour palette

Minimalist interiors typically rely on soft, neutral tones such as whites, beiges, greys, and earthy hues. When incorporating antiques, ensure that they complement or contrast elegantly with the existing palette. For instance, a French console table can add warmth and dramatic depth to an otherwise crisp white space.

#3 Balance simplicity with detail

While ornate antique pieces are often rich in detailing, they should be surrounded by simplicity to avoid visual chaos. Pair an antique French armchair with clean-lined contemporary furniture or offset an elaborate baroque frame with an unadorned modern wall.

#4 Embrace negative space

One of the fundamental principles of minimalism is the effective use of negative space; the areas left intentionally uncluttered to create a sense of openness. By giving your antiques breathing room, you allow their beauty and craftsmanship to take centre stage.

#5 Mix materials and textures

To create visual interest, combine contrasting materials such as aged wood with sleek marble, brass with matte finishes, or ornate carvings with clean-lined furniture. This interplay of old and new adds dimension without disrupting the overall harmony.

#6 Incorporate modern lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in achieving a balanced look. Opt for minimalist lighting fixtures such as recessed lighting or sleek pendant lights to illuminate your space. At the same time, an antique candelabra or table lamp can serve as a sculptural focal point.

#7 Keep décor minimal but meaningful

Ornate minimalism is about intentionality. Instead of filling your space with numerous accessories, opt for a few carefully chosen decor items that hold personal significance; perhaps an antique clock passed down through generations or a vintage sculpture that sparks conversation.

The Crown Collection | Handpicked antiques for minimalist spaces

The Crown Collection – South Africa’s largest antique and décor store – is a premier destination for those looking to incorporate antiques into a minimalist, contemporary home.

Here’s why:

A curated collection of decorative antiques

The Crown Collection offers over 5,000 versatile and functional pieces carefully chosen for their decorative appeal. Our extensive range includes antique, French, and contemporary furniture and accessories, ensuring that each item can serve as a unique focal point in a minimalist setting.

An emphasis on mixing styles

Our store’s philosophy – ‘mix don’t match’ – encourages the blending of different styles to create a cohesive and personalised space. By integrating antiques with modern pieces, any homeowner can add character and interest to their interiors without overwhelming their minimalist aesthetic.

Expert guidance on pairing the old with the new

The Crown Collection team provides expert insights on how to harmoniously combine antique and contemporary elements. Our onsite professional restorers are also able to bleach, gild or stain any item to create your desired finish.

A sustainable and timeless investment

Investing in antiques is an eco-friendly choice, as these pieces have a lower carbon footprint compared to newly manufactured items. This syncs perfectly with the minimalist cry for sustainability and ‘slow design’ principles. The value of antiques often appreciates over time, offering both environmental and financial benefits.

By selecting antiques that complement the clean aesthetics of modern design, The Crown Collection becomes the perfect destination – in-store or online – to embrace the Ornate Minimalism trend.

Reflective design | Antique mirrors as modern headboards

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: `antiques in contemporary spaces, Adding antiques to modern decor styles, Antique mirrors, The Crown Collection decor store|

Interior design trends are always celebrating the creative blending of old and new. Thoughtfully balancing the past with the present – and allowing each piece of furniture to communicate with each other – contributes to meaningful design. This layer of authenticity is the secret to successful spaces. Among the various antiques that can add character and charm to contemporary interiors, antique mirrors stand out for their unique ability to transform a room. Focusing on space and light, coupled with their decorative craftsmanship, they are the darling items among designers and homeowners alike.

“Designers and people in general are too attracted by ‘new’, but nothing ages more quickly than ‘newness’. All my objects reflect a marriage between past and present.” –Marcel Wanders | Dutch designer of the iconic Knotted Chair.

Bridging these design worlds is the décor versatility of antique mirrors. Their ability to merge classic aesthetics with contemporary tastes makes them the ideal items to repurpose in modern spaces. And the bedroom is just the place to showcase their unmatched utility and beauty when reconfigured as headboards.

Whether you’re a purist and use them with their mirrors intact, or go avant-garde and remove the mirror and just use the frame, antique mirrored headboards are a beautiful focal point design element that grounds a bedroom and becomes the centrepiece of the entire space.

Antique mirrors | A modern reflection of timeless elegance

Any modern space can benefit from a sense of history and artisanal detailing. An antique mirror is the perfect solution as it not only stands as a statement but also reflects the other pieces in the room. Unlike mass-produced items, each piece tells a story through its intricate frames, aged patina and unique imperfections. Reconfigured as a headboard, it’s furniture design that thinks outside the box while still honouring its design heritage.

A décor nod to depth & dimension

In minimalist modern bedrooms – where clean lines and uncluttered spaces reign supreme – antique mirrors offer a captivating contrast.

Their ornate frames and weathered glass introduce texture and visual interest, breaking the monotony without overwhelming the space.

Mirrors are well known for their ability to enhance light and create an illusion of more space. Antique mirrors, with their often larger and more elaborate frames, can amplify this effect even further. Placing an antique mirror strategically as a headboard (or even above a headboard) can brighten up a room, making it feel more open and inviting. This practical benefit, combined with their aesthetic appeal, makes antique mirrors a sought-after choice for interior designers.

A lesson in design versatility

What makes antique mirrors truly versatile is their ability to complement a variety of decor styles.

Whether your bedroom leans towards Scandinavian simplicity, industrial chic, modern minimalism, or eclectic bohemian, there’s an antique mirror that can seamlessly integrate into your vision.

Pairing a gilded French Baroque mirror with a minimalist platform bed or juxtaposing a distressed Victorian piece against a sleek, modern backdrop illustrates the power of blending old and new for a culturally rich design narrative and the benefit of highlighting the surrounding décor.

A conversation in conscious consumerism

‘Slow design’ prioritises sustainability and is at the forefront of décor choices.

Repurposing antique mirrors is an eco-friendly solution that perfectly aligns with these environmentally-friendly values; reducing waste and promoting the reuse of beautiful, well-crafted items. By choosing antiques over newly manufactured pieces, you’re contributing to a more sustainable approach and enriching the decorating of your home.

A valuable investment angle

Antique mirrors – especially those that are well-preserved and of high quality – can appreciate over time. Investing in such pieces not only contributes to your home’s décor story but can also be a smart financial decision. Unlike many modern items that depreciate quickly, antiques often become treasured heirlooms that hold both sentimental and monetary value.

A visit to the Crown Collection decor store

The Crown Collection Décor Store – a handpicked inventory of antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories – is where the timeless charm of antique mirrors meets the sophistication of modern design.

Our curated selection offers a range of exquisite pieces that seamlessly blend the design craftsmanship of the piece with contemporary lifestyles and décor moments.

Visit us today – online or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston – and let The Crown Collection Décor Store experience transform your vision of interior elegance into reality.

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.

5 Principles for mixing antiques with modern pieces

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: `antiques in contemporary spaces, Antique furniture in modern spaces, mix antiques with modern pieces|

The love for artisanal beauty and the timeless, sustainable characteristics of antiques have influenced decor trends for decades. And current trends in design only reinforce this with homeowners – of all ages – wanting to include the richness and value of antique pieces into their modern aesthetics. According to Pinterest, “Boomers and Gen Z will find new ways to honour old stuff in their homes, combining vintage and inherited pieces with modern styles.” Simply put, antiques never go out of fashion.

Contemporary sleek, minimalist spaces gain immediate personality with the addition of antiques which, instead of taking away from the modernity of the overall interior scheme, actually create a harmonious balance.

“When we want furniture for our homes, we usually think of buying new items, but there are so many reasons why antiques and vintage pieces are a better buy. Antique and vintage furniture cost much the same as new furniture and increase in value, unlike new furniture. Not only are antiques a great investment, but they also have history, are beautiful and they never date.” -Jacqui Moskovitz, Director of Marketing, Operations & Procurement at The Crown Collection.

Antiques instantly add character, interest and story to a modern home. But if you don’t know how to mix the old with the new, you may end up with an interior that looks unbalanced, mismatched, or incongruous.

(We recently highlighted Stephen Falcke’s home which is a striking case study of combining antiques in a modern home).

You don’t need to be an expert collector to seamlessly integrate antique furniture or accessories into your home. You simply need a little knowledge of the basic principles and then you will have the tools to successfully mix and match antiques into any contemporary space.

#1 Scale, balance & proportion

Modern homes are often open-plan and generally subscribe to a light, neutral and airy feel that may be cold, bland and lacking ‘something.’ This is where the substantial gravitas of antique pieces immediately add interest and warmth and are elevated to the status of a ‘statement piece’ or ‘conversation piece.’ It just takes one carefully selected piece to completely transform a room and break up a generic and overly coordinated contemporary look.

To avoid a room looking ‘shabby,’ it makes sense to spread the patina of antiques throughout the space so that the curation of old and new feels fresh, balanced and intentional.

The scale and placement of furniture are just as important when decorating a room. Darker, heavier and larger antique furniture – armoires, bombe chests, linen presses, secretaires and chests of drawers – were originally designed for a unique context and should be placed against a wall. Antique dining tables, on the other hand, are the perfect juxtaposition to new contemporary chairs and will never overwhelm a modern minimalist aesthetic.

#2 Form, function & repurposing

Antique furniture prides itself on its beauty and versatility. In their day, they were manufactured for specific functional purposes but also showcased master craftsmanship. Over the centuries, many antique pieces have evolved from their original use and are being repurposed in modern homes today. This added sustainability adds to their intrinsic investment value.

The wood carvings, curves, marquetry and decorative flourishes of antiques all perfectly complement the straight lines of modern design. (An antique armoire becomes the perfect storage signature piece for books and objets d’art or as a drinks cabinet).

#3 Gilded, stained or bleached

Unless it is a rare collectable, antiques do not have to be displayed in their original state; they can be refinished. Your personal preferences may include gilding, staining, bleaching, painting, or upholstering – depending on the piece of furniture and your design aesthetic.

This is also where your personality comes into play and where you get to give a piece of furniture a new lease of life; ending up with a really special and unique statement or accent piece.

For customised finishes – including French polishing, hand gilding, paint techniques, bleaching or staining (darker or lighter) – our professional in-house restorers are available to transform any piece that takes your fancy from our store.

#4 Colour, texture and neutrals

The biggest challenge with mixing antiques with modern pieces is avoiding visual noise when it comes to the art of marrying different styles in one space. You do not want a room’s design to jar; its decor story needs to make sense. Even if you have a quirky or eclectic design bent, there still needs to be a sense of harmony and cohesion.

Unite different pieces and styles with the same colour palette – this could be wood tones, metals, an accent colour or repetitive fabrics or patterns. This is the easiest way to integrate disparate elements.
Refinish a variety of antique pieces in different woods with one paint colour, stain or paint technique to create visual continuity.
Balance a mix of signature pieces or furniture styles with a neutral or monochromatic background.
Anchor a scheme with black accents which also adds a sophisticated design element.

#5 Signature, accent & statement pieces

The quickest way to create maximum impact in a modern space is with just one carefully chosen antique piece of furniture that becomes the hero piece of the room. This is where you can go big and bold with a large-scale piece that is dramatic and commands attention – a huge gilded mirror, a grand linen press, an ornate French sofa, a decorative screen, a large antique painting or an oversized chandelier.

Once the main attraction is in place, you can build the rest of the scheme around that. If you are not brave enough to commit to or invest in a standalone signature piece, then start with smaller accent pieces such as side tables, a kist, a console table or an occasional chair which can all easily be moved around your home.

Antiques and The Crown Collection

Incorporating antiques into modern spaces has never been more accessible than a visit to the Crown Collection.

For further inspiration on how to include antiques into any design aesthetic, visit our blog page, or simply start shopping our curated collection and eclectic combination of decorative antiques and modern and classic styles.