The Crown Collection Antique store Archives

The Crown Collection | Who we are – Welcome to SA’s largest décor store

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique, French & contemporary furniture & accessories, The Crown Collection Antique store, The Crown Collection decor store|

In the world of decorative antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories, there exists a décor store that transcends the ordinary. The Crown Collection – SA’s largest décor and antique emporium – deserves a mention alongside fellow Paris, New York and London counterparts.

Often asked about our behind-the-scenes décor store identity, we are quick to respond that our mission is to be proud purveyors of sophistication and chic; offering a distinctive and curated blend of antique, French, and contemporary pieces that define the essence of timeless elegance for classical or modern homes, offices, hotels and lodges.

A dedicated ensemble of curators

Who are the characters behind The Crown Collection store window? At the heart of The Crown Collection lies an experienced and discerning team obsessed with the art of curating the most exquisite furniture and accessories from all over the world and presenting them to South African and international collectors and homeowners.

Our passion and love for decorative antique, French and contemporary furniture extends beyond mere commerce; it’s a dedication to sourcing beautiful pieces that are meant to complement any interior; locally and globally.

(We also have an experienced in-house team of skilled restorers who can upholster, gild, bleach or stain any piece that takes your fancy).

A unique approach to ‘Eclectic Fusion’ (Mix don’t match)

When it comes to decorative antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories, we are intuitively drawn to the extraordinary, the unique and the rare; an industry trait that sets The Crown Collection apart from other décor and antique stores.

The essence of our aesthetic revolves around mixing classic antiques with contemporary pieces, creating spaces where different eras and styles seamlessly intertwine. Each piece in our collection is handpicked.

A specific in-store style narrative

How do we describe The Crown Collection’s aesthetic? Our décor store is a stage dedicated to a style that embodies timeless elegance, featuring pieces carefully selected to naturally blend various styles and periods.

Each area is thoughtfully arranged and filled to the brim with hand-picked decorative pieces that create an atmosphere which resonates with our interior designers and clients; providing them with an unparalleled experience in interior design.

A commitment to inspiration and creativity

What fuels our collector’s creativity? The answer lies within.

We draw inspiration from our passionate curiosity; seeking the unseen and the unconventional.

The Crown Collection is a manifestation of what we desire and what we believe is missing in the world of interior design. It’s about going beyond the ordinary and presenting a collection that speaks to the unique taste of our clientele.

All it takes is just that ‘one’ antique piece

We know how difficult it is to find that special item of furniture or accessory that deserves to be showcased in your home. It could be an elaborate crystal chandelier, a decorative gilded mirror, a Dutch Louis XVI Period Mahogany Armoire (circa 1790) or a delicate collection of silverware). (That’s just for starters).

Our mission is to provide a distinctive and curated collection of the highest quality decorative antique French and contemporary furniture and accessory items that are not only likely to increase in value over time but will also become ‘statement’ pieces in any space.

With that in mind, we have created a unique décor store where interior designers and clients can find ‘one-of-a-kind’ pieces for their tastes and spaces.

Antique sideboards, servers & buffets | The overlooked darlings of interior design

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Antique buffets, Antique servers, Antique sideboards, Mix antiques with modern decor, The Crown Collection Antique store|

Antique sideboards, servers or buffets – sometimes called credenzas – are perhaps the most overlooked and underestimated pieces of furniture. But we believe they deserve a moment of glory. (And who says they should only be relegated to the dining room?). Coming in many different shapes, sizes and finishes, this is definitely the time to break the rules and reposition a sideboard, buffet or server as the perfect decor investment in multiple rooms of your home.

We do, however, subscribe to William Morris’ one rule: “If you want a golden rule that will fit everything, this is it: Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

Ticking the two key interior design boxes of form and function – useful and beautiful – antique sideboards, servers & buffets offer you the versatility to either be the hero piece or the sophisticated backdrop for practical storage and stunning displays. They are way more than just a utilitarian solution for traditional dining rooms; stepping up as striking feature pieces that will transform any space from mundane and boring to glorious and eclectic.

Reaching their design peak during the Regency period, sideboards, servers and buffets are elegant, graceful and highly functional furniture forms.

What’s the difference?

When referring to this family of antiques, the terms are often used interchangeably. But there are subtle differences distinguishing them if you want to be specific and show off your antique knowledge. Generally speaking, to qualify as a sideboard, server or buffet, these elongated decorative furniture items will have cabinet-like doors and/or storage draws. (They are also narrower in width than dining or kitchen tables).

Sideboards are freestanding with short legs or their base sits directly on the floor.
Buffets have longer legs and are usually larger than a sideboard. Originally designed to serve food, their height is usually counter-level.
Servers are typically smaller and lighter in scale with narrow drawers, longer legs and an open bottom.
Credenzas originally didn’t have feet. But, their renewed popularity during the mid-20th century saw them being designed as long, low cabinets with sliding doors.

Where can they be placed?

The modern-day resurgence of antiques in decor trends has seen the evolution of repurposing furniture from its original design intent.

This is where antique sideboards, buffets or servers really come into their own. Originally only found in dining rooms, sideboards and servers are now making a name for themselves in every other room as drinks cabinets, kitchen islands, coffee stations, office storage, TV stands, dressing tables and bathroom vanities.

We dare you to think out of the box when it comes to buying one of these antique pieces and allowing it to redefine your spaces.

How can they be used?

If you’re in search of a piece of furniture that does triple duty (i.e. has storage options, is perfect for displaying collections and looks beautiful), then, depending on the size of your space, an antique sideboard, buffet or server ‘steps up to the plate.’

Dramatic displays: With iconic drinks stations having a revival, and silver trays – with antique glass, silverware or candle collections – making a comeback, there isn’t a better piece of furniture to showcase in a modern home than a sideboard or server. (And if you’re not into gin and tonic, craft whisky or custom spirits, then a coffee station will look just as inviting). Also, given their countertop height, they remain the ideal item for ‘serving’ tea and food.

Stylish storage: The craftsmanship of antique sideboards, servers and buffets includes shallow drawers and/or cupboards; perfect for storing linens, serving plates, silverware and cutlery. (And that is just in the dining room). If you are brave enough to add a server or sideboard to your bathroom as a vanity, you can store towels and toiletries. In a bedroom, they make the perfect dressing tables and in a study, they provide a little extra ‘out is sight’ organization. Used as TV stands, their storage options hide a whole lot of living room paraphernalia.

Breathtaking beauty: The reason antique sideboards and servers are the darlings of interior design is due to their artisanal versatility; allowing them to be so easily incorporated and mixed into a modern aesthetic. The elegant timelessness and character of Burr Walnut, Mahogany or Oak – natural, varnished, or beached – will always add contrast and balance to your home. Take your design period pick: Edwardian, Georgian, Victorian, Regency, French or Gothic Revival.

Where can I find one?

It’s really easy to fall in love with these unsung heroes of interior design. Their stunning beauty and versatility clearly make them pieces of interest for a broad target group of buyers.

At the Crown Collection, our handpicked and curated collection of sideboards, servers and buffets (and the odd credenza) is ready to wow you. We are on a mission to give these furniture items the attention we believe they deserve in the antique world.

Browse online or visit our showroom at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

(Our in-store restorers can stain, bleach or gild any item to your personal preference).

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The Crown Collection | A one-of-a-kind antique store experience

Categories: Articles, Blog, Press|Tags: Antique armoires, Antique chandeliers & mirrors, Antique French furniture, Antique shopping, Antique store, The Crown Collection Antique store|

You don’t have to follow Lucy Pevensie through an antique wardrobe to experience a sense of awe and wonder. You just have to step through the doors of the recently revamped Crown Collection antique store in Johannesburg. Each area is thoughtfully arranged and filled to the brim with hand-picked decorative pieces that evoke a sense of history and place; a treasure trove that is literally the adult version of feeling like a kid in a candy store (or in Narnia).

Speaking of wardrobes, a highly desirable and curated collection of armoires, linen presses and cabinets awaits; satisfying your quest for the perfect and versatile antique storage solution that will complement any contemporary space and aesthetic.

A very special antique store experience

For those on the outside, there may be no logic to the fascination of browsing and shopping in an antique store. But for those on the inside – the antique lovers and collectors – shopping for antiques is a no-brainer.

The minute you step over the threshold, your senses are assailed with an overload of visual beauty and you will be hard-pressed not to touch, stroke or ‘ooh and aah’ at the decorative displays before you.

That is simply the Crown Collection’s unique story and offering.

A wonderland of antique delights

As you anticipate the Crown Collection’s antique store experience, a sense of respect and curiosity will overtake your desire to rush around trying to find the perfect accessory or piece of furniture. They are all perfect. So take your time.

Here’s a taste of how your journey will unfold:

You will want to look up and pause under the soft lighting of an antique crystal chandelier. (Which Victorian ballroom did this once grace?).

You will want to sit awhile in a grand and sumptuous 19th-century giltwood Louis XVI Fauteuil-style armchair. (What gossip was exchanged by ladies-in-waiting?).

You may want to lounge elegantly on a chaise – aka a daybed – and imagine yourself as an Edwardian heroine in a Jane Austen novel.

Your nostalgic memories will be awakened as you hear an antique grandfather clock chime; transporting you back to a moment in time.

You will be transformed as you stand in front of an oversized gilded antique decorative mirror. (“Will it fit in my car?” you wonder).

Not into a gold patina but rather looking to give your decor a silver twist? Never fear. The Crown Collection’s silverware options will have you adding shiny vignettes in your kitchen, dining room, bathroom or on your dressing table.

And then there is the vast array of French ‘ooh-la-la’ antique pieces. The Crown Collection’s choices are so enchanting, feminine and chic, you will want to give your bedroom a French-style makeover or find ways to add a little French flair to your home.

From your entrance hall and WFH (work from home) space to your contemporary bathroom or modern kitchen, The Crown Collection antique store is where you will find the perfect statement piece to mix and match with any aesthetic.

A place to linger (in-store or online)

Across the global landscape of antique shopping, London and New York are well-known as iconic hubs. But that experience is also available at The Crown Collection Emporium in Johannesburg; a drawcard for interior designers, homeowners and lovers of all things antique.

Whether you are searching for a specific item or merely some inspiration, you are sure to find it among the 5000+ curated pieces that are on show at The Crown Collection’s beautifully revamped antique store located at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

If you are not in the Johannesburg area, a virtual antique store experience is yours online. Although second best, the entire collection is at your fingertips. And with nationwide delivery, your next statement piece from The Crown Collection is simply a click away.

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3 Modern decor styles that need antiques

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Adding antiques to contemporary spaces, Adding antiques to modern decor styles, Antique armoire, Antique mirror, Antique rug, Antiques store Johannesburg, Chandelier, Mix antiques with modern decor, Riempie bench, The Crown Collection Antique store|

Creating a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle is comprised of varying design expressions and decor options. It often comes down to a careful balance of form and function, and mixing the old with the new. Antiques are a popular, sustainable and timeless choice – as well as a versatile solution – to getting this right across many design aesthetics.

Three decor styles that benefit beautifully from the addition of antiques are modern minimalism, modern maximalism and modern Afro-Chic. Each style has its own nuances and characteristics, but they all gain a boost of personality with the addition of well-chosen pieces of antique furniture.

Antiques and modern minimalism – ‘Less is more’

Minimalism, as a philosophy, involves stripping things down or editing things back to their most basic form. As an interior design aesthetic, it emphasises simplicity, clean lines, a neutral palette and uncluttered spaces.

A minimalist approach highlights essential elements such as light, form and beautiful materials to create a free sense of flow and calm. There are no extras and the few details that are used blend harmoniously into the overall setting.

Because the focus is on removing distractions, furniture and accessories are carefully curated and kept to a minimum. Antiques play a crucial role in a minimalistic space by adding texture, depth and interest to an otherwise monochromatic and ‘sterile’ room.

A sense of history and authenticity is often missing in a modern minimalist design and well-chosen antique furniture pieces – such as an armoire – become a purposeful focal point and conversation piece. The calm is not interrupted, but a sense of elegance is introduced into a neutral palette.

The secret is choosing an antique piece of furniture that will complement your minimalistic style story rather than detract from it.

Antiques and modern maximalism – ‘More is more’

Sophie Robinson – iconic British interior design and colour expert – is the queen of the maximalist aesthetic. One glance at her bold approach to colour and pattern leaves you energised and in awe of how her busy ‘mix-and-not-match’ philosophy just works; making even the die-hard minimalist smile and start dreaming about introducing colour or pattern into their spaces.

“This is a heartfelt design style, and you must prioritise fabulousness over practicality at every opportunity.” -Sophie Robinson. Her tips for getting the look right include using a tight colour palette to create pattern harmony and repeating similar colours, patterns and design styles for overall cohesion.

As a style, a maximalist aesthetic celebrates excess patterns, plenty of accessories and highly saturated colours; creating spaces that are extravagant and playful.

And this is where antiques quickly become the ideal solution as a much-needed contrast; allowing your eye to rest as it takes in the seemingly chaotic busyness of a maximalist-designed room.

Well-placed antique pieces also anchor a maximalist space by providing a sense of structure and balance.

A large antique mirror will cleverly and beautifully reflect the vibrant patterns and colours of the room’s decor
An antique chandelier will create a striking and definitive focal point.
An antique rug will ‘ground’ a seating area or bed and blend with all the other playful patterns and colours
An antique dresser will certainly be an arresting statement piece if painted in a bright colour.

Embracing a maximalist aesthetic is all about creative expression and how that informs your interpretation of fantasy and imagination in a space.

Antiques and modern Afro-chic – ‘A more eclectic vibe’

From the Cape to Cairo, Africa has always inspired artists and design trends. Although Afro-Chic is a hard design aesthetic to definitively pin down, at its core, it draws inspiration from our rich and diverse African culture and heritage.

It’s an eclectic melting pot of rustic elements, bold geometric patterns, animal prints, natural fibres, organic shapes, handwoven fabrics and traditional artworks.

The Afro-Chic colour palette is a visual inspiration from nature and is both subdued and edgy. Earthy tones (terracotta, ochre, orange and off-white) are the moody backdrop to vibrant green and sky blue accents as well as pink, magenta and purple hues of an African sunset which add an animated sense of joy.

The craftsmanship of antiques, the natural wood finishes and the artisanal detailing all harmonise with an Afro–Chic narrative; cleverly creating a sense of continuity to tie the eclectic ‘mismatched’ elements together.

An antique wood carving from West Africa can be repurposed as a mantle piece.
An antique beaded stool from East Africa can be used as a side table.
A rustic antique bench in front of a fireplace becomes a gathering place.
An antique riempie bench is a versatile addition to any room in the house.

Be it the clean lines of modern minimalism, the colourful boldness of modern maximalism or the eclectic vibe of modern Afro-Chic, antiques become a way to create a unique and timeless living aesthetic.

The Crown Collection – A ‘modern’ antique store

Assisting you in incorporating antiques in modern spaces – no matter your style – is what The Crown Collection Store does best. Not only will you find what you are looking for from more than 5 000 handpicked items, but any piece you purchase is an investment and likely to increase in value over time.

Whatever your modern decor preference, an antique piece is an obvious choice to elevate, balance or add contrast to your home.