*Project by* *Rose Uniacke*
*Photo by Lucas Allen*

The negative impact of fast fashion and overconsumption is becoming increasingly evident. However, we often overlook the role that 'fast furniture’ and 'fast interiors' can play. Much like in the fashion industry, the furniture industry and specifically interior design is susceptible to people buying furniture that is trend-driven and short-lived and ends up in landfills. Bringing vintage and antique pieces into your home is a great way to be sustainable and fill your home with unique items.

In this article I’m going to give you some tips and tricks for bringing vintage furniture into your home.

*Project by Morgane Sézalory*
*Photography by* ***Matthieu Salvaing***

According to research from the British Heart Foundation, one-third of UK adults throw away furniture that can be recycled and repurposed, while only two-fifths have purchased second-hand furniture. British consumers buy much of their furniture first-hand. This clearly shows that British people are not choosing sustainable furniture options.

Vintage vs antique

Quick Note - Objects 100 years and older are classified as antiques. Furniture that is over 20 years old is considered vintage.

One of the best ways to avoid further contributing to overproduction and overconsumption is to buy secondhand furniture and vintage pieces. It is a sure-fire way to make your room look timeless. In addition to being an affordable and unique way to add personality to your home, vintage furniture is also a great investment. You can use it in many ways, from small accent pieces to larger furniture like console tables and wardrobe . When you're searching for vintage items, you need to know what you're looking for.

Along with buying vintage pieces at auctions, flea markets, or antique shops, you can also buy them online. You can find low-priced vintage furniture on several websites. However, before you purchase anything online, you should conduct some research first because purchasing something sight unseen or without inspecting it first comes with risks.

The following are some tips on how to bring in beautiful vintage and antique pieces of history into your home:

1. Look at what you have already

Often, people are quick to go shopping for new sustainable pieces from what they perceive as 'sustainable furniture brands'. We believe, however, that it is important to evaluate what you already have. Sustainability involves looking at what you already own and reworking or upcycling it for your lifestyle.

Your old furniture can be recycled through many furniture projects. You can, for instance, repaint an open shelf or wardrobe, or replace the knobs on a chest of drawers for a modern look and feel. In addition to saving money, these changes will also

*Project by* *John Whelan*
*Photography is by* *Victor Stonem*.

2. Measure, measure, measure

Almost every, one has spotted the most beautiful piece of furniture that they feel would be great for their living room. However, it is too large and does not fit! Take a tape measure and measure the area where things will go.

You should keep a notebook with key sizes and spaces for furniture placement. When you shop at flea markets, vintage shops, and charity shops, take the notebook along with you so you know if the furniture you purchase fits the space you have.

3. Mix eras

You don't need rules in your home. Don't get caught up in different eras and buy what you like. You can make your home feel layered by mixing furniture from different periods and adding history and depth to your space.

Filling your home with different furniture from different eras is a sure-fire way for your home to look and feel timeless. Using antiques from various styles and eras gives the room a more eclectic and personal feel. By using this method, you can create a contemporary boho or modern eclectic decor in your home.

4. Remember to pair vintage pieces with modern pieces

Vintage finds are great but don't forget to mix, match, and pair them with modern pieces. An antique piece of furniture combined with modern art always looks great. A mid-century modern console or sideboard looks great mixed with modern bright art pieces and is a great way to mix styles. This design style is characterised by clean lines. Together, these two pieces enhance each other's unique characteristics.

Source - Deborah Diem from Unsplash — *Source -* *Deborah Diem* *from Unsplash*

5. Mirror, mirror on the wall.

There is nothing better than an old mirror. The beauty of an antique mirror adds charm and character to a space. It reflects the style of the homeowner. Antique and vintage mirrors soften a space with their fun and unusual shapes.

Source - Tuva Mathilde Løland from Unsplash — *Source -* *Tuva Mathilde Løland* *from Unsplash*

6. Be bold and unusual

Use items in unexpected ways and be bold. For example, an old small locker can be turned into a bedside table. An old door can be repurposed into a vintage bed frame.

7. Mix and match

When buying vintage it can often prove difficult to get perfect sets so we recommend mixing and maxing. When it comes to home decor and shopping at antique stores, pairing different types of tables and chairs can look great. For consistency and a common thread try keeping the tone of the wood or the colour the same whilst the pieces are different.

Where can I buy great vintage things?

Online Marketplaces

There are a lot of online marketplaces where you can find great vintage pieces. Visit websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, 1stDibs, and Gumtree to find great hidden treasures.

Vinterior and Etsy are both great websites for finding bespoke vintage pieces. The company partners with vintage shops and dealers around the country to offer their inventory online, so there is a huge selection at a range of prices.

There are plenty of bargains to be found on Etsy's vintage trade. Items come from all over the world, and you're guaranteed to find a bargain.

Charity shops, flea markets, car boot sales and vintage shops

Do not overlook local charity shops, particularly the British Heart Foundation’s Home and Furniture stores. They are great places to find cheap bargains. It is important to factor in delivery costs, which can start at £20. It is a great idea to go to flea markets and car boot sales to find unique bargains for your home.

Become familiar with all the local charity shops and vintage shops, and make sure to stop by frequently. Stocks are constantly being replenished with great items. When you are shopping, make sure you take your time and speak with the shop owners. They are often a wealth of information.

So go ahead and bring vintage and antique pieces into your home and be more sustainable in your furniture shopping choices.

7 Tips for Bringing Vintage and Antique Pieces Into Your Home