Dome chairs Archives - The Crown Collection

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.

How to introduce antique seating options into any space

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique and French-style chairs, Antique seating, Decorative occasional chairs, Dome chairs, French settees or sofas, French-style daybeds and chaises, The Crown Collection decor store|

The design trend of mixing interiors with contemporary and antique pieces is constantly gaining momentum and personalised interpretations. The broad narrative of 21st-century home décor aesthetics – industrial chic, modern minimalist, contemporary French rustic, transitional eclectic or Afro-chic – all benefit from the depth, charm and layering potential that carefully chosen decorative antiques bring to a space. The best place to start is by introducing antique chairs; their versatility and styling potential are unmatched in the world of interior design.

If you are looking to invest in furniture that adds character, history, flexibility, and subtle sophistication into a contemporary setting, then integrating antique seating – occasional chairs, conversation settees, dome chairs, daybeds, French sofas, Chinese yoke chairs etc – into modern living spaces is the answer.

Occasional chairs | Where guests love to sit

Occasional chairs are the unsung heroes of antique seating. Their compact size and diverse designs make them perfect for introducing beautiful moments of nostalgia into modern living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, studies, kitchens or entrance halls. They are a welcome and irresistible invitation for any visitor to sit awhile.

Not only are these seating options conversation starters, but they easily transform into functional works of art.

Reupholstering an antique occasional chair with a bold, vibrant or contemporary fabric that complements your colour scheme and style is where you get to have some bespoke fun. Then just observe guests as they enter your home; they will immediately be drawn to an occasional chair that tells its own décor story.

Dome Chairs | Where royalty meets modernity

Dome chairs – aka canopy chairs, porter’s chairs, balloon chairs or Versailles chairs – are reminiscent of regal opulence and luxury. Originally designed to protect one from a draft, these imposing antique seating options are classic accent pieces that make a striking and flamboyant statement in modern interiors.

Dome chairs boast intricate carvings and ornate details that perfectly juxtapose their historical grandeur against the clean lines and minimalist décor of a contemporary setting. Placing a dome chair near a large window or as a focal piece in the centre of a room will never fail to be the wow factor; creating a harmonious blend of old-world charm and unexpected sophistication.

Daybeds | Where everyone loves to put their feet up

Daybeds (or chaise lounges) are the perfect ‘laidback’ statement pieces if you have extra space. As versatile furniture options, they meet the brief of perfectly fusing style and functionality. Consider an antique daybed as a unique seating/lounging option for a reading nook or even as an alternative to a traditional sofa.

Bring a daybed into the 21st century by adding modern scatter cushions, decorative throws or a cosy blanket. The contrast of old and new creates a dynamic energy, making the daybed a focal point that seamlessly adds to the overall design scheme. (We love the fact that South African interior designer, Steven Falcke, has included a daybed in his bathroom; illustrating his modern approach to decorating with antiques).

Dining chairs | Where people gather

Probably the go-to option when mixing antiques in modern spaces is a set of antique dining room chairs to offset a contemporary table. This timeless pairing always works. But what about flipping the script and switching out the antique chairs for ghost chairs (or an eclectic mix of modern chairs), and rather investing in an antique (extendable) dining room table or refectory table?

Whichever way you play it, your dining space will exude a bespoke expression that beautifully celebrates the craftsmanship of the past and the interplay of modernity. (It truly is a match made in heaven).

French-style sofas | Where conversations happen

The allure of a French-style sofa lies in its timeless elegance. But the key to translating this successfully in your living area is to balance the ornate details of the sofa with modern elements.

Picture a gilded upholstered French sofa paired with sleek, metallic accents or a glass coffee table. A neutral colour palette will also help maintain a sense of cohesion while allowing the decorative prettiness and drama of a French sofa to be the highlight in modern living space.

A novel way of transcending the ordinary is to showcase an antique sofa as settee dining. Unlike conventional dining chairs, settees offer a more relaxed and communal dining experience, fostering a sense of intimacy among diners. The versatility of settees allows them to blend with various design themes – from classic to eclectic – making them a perfect choice for those who appreciate the art of lifestyle curation.

Eclectic seating | Where the design fun happens

When it comes to experimenting with décor elements in your home, never be afraid to embrace the mixing of different antique seating styles.

The magic lies in the unexpected combinations that spark visual interest.

Pair a French sofa with mid-century modern occasional chairs, or place a dome chair beside a sleek daybed. Chinese yoke chairs or riempie benches are also accent pieces that just fit with any scheme and work in any room.

The eclectic harmony that emerges from such combinations is a testament to the limitless possibilities of antique seating when bridging the gap between antiquity and modernity.

The Crown Collection | Where antique seating is on show

Integrating antique seating into modern living spaces is a design collaboration between history and innovation. By selecting pieces that resonate with your style aesthetic, and experimenting with creative juxtapositions, you will craft a space that is individual, layered and welcoming.

So, step into a décor world of antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories design, where each hand-picked piece will infuse your home with