Photography by Max Kim-Bee Objects with Patina and Craftsmanship
Objects with Patina and Craftsmanship
Though well-made objects that patina beautifully over time never go out of style, Rechtermann says there will be more of a focus on these features in the coming years. She says, "When you are looking at a piece—whether antique or vintage—very often the 'hand' of the artist or creator shines through, as does the level of craftsmanship."She adds, "Sometimes it’s in the form of hand-carved wood, a unique, artistic glaze on a piece of ceramic, or a certain patina that comes with age and use that you would never find on a newer piece. Also, the one-of-kind, harder-to-find nature of antique and vintage pieces not only makes them a special find but also fits into this new world where sustainability is a key factor in the decision-making [process].”
“Tiled coffee tables with art on them are a double whammy for rarity,” says Freund. Take, for example, this from the 1950s, complete with a geometrically symmetrical piece of art painted on the surface. Finding art on a vintage table like this one is key for making sure the value increases with time.
“With so many companies nowadays opting for minimal and modern lighting, finding unique and detailed antique fixtures are key to making a space come together,” says interior designer . “These pieces are great to invest in because they feel like jewelry that completes an outfit, or the classic ‘cherry on top.’” She recommends looking for items from the early 1900s, as their value will only increase with age.
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Works by Trending Artists
Works by Trending Artists
According to 1stDibs’ data, the top trending creator on the reseller's website is —and his vintage glazed ceramics will only continue to surge in popularity in the coming years. Other trending artists include , , and .
“I’m always fond of antique rugs in general because they are made with such attention to detail, and I would advise people to look at antique stores that maintain the quality,” says Beryl. “Antique Turkish rugs offer a beautiful selection of patterns and styles that will go in any space.”
Biedermeier Barrel Chairs
Biedermeier Barrel Chairs
“Because there’s been a pendulum swing away from so-called ‘brown furniture,’ it means that these pieces are currently under-valued,” says Freund. (Plus, at VERANDA, we believe every room needs a piece of brown furniture!)
He adds, “With a little restoration work and some fresh or funky upholstery, you can create a design focal point that is at once grounded in the past and in sync with current trends.”For example, Freund says Biedermeier Barrel Chairs made in the 1800s in Central Europe are a forever classic: “They’re comfortable, light, and elegant, and have served as the inspiration for many contemporary models.”
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“I love antiques that are actually a little lighter in feel; whether in the finishes, the paint colors, or the textiles and wools,” says interior designer Stephanie Hunt of .She adds, “They might filter into a buyer's current collections a bit easier, and this increases their value over time.” For her part, Hunt recommends purchasing a Louis XVI desk, which is Neoclassical in nature with its straight lines and geometric patterns.
In that same vein, Freund looks to an Italian Empire chest of drawers for clean lines that can stand the test of time. “The form is a forerunner of modern furniture, especially with the sleek look and decorative inlays, and it’s a great statement piece,” he says.This early 19th-century style uses architectural elements and Neoclassical themes to create a piece with character and versatility.
Quiet luxury is a trend that doesn't seem to be going away any time soon, and “people are looking for well-made pieces that don’t scream out too much,” says interior designer . The Cassina Forme Libre table checks all those boxes, with its sleek, minimal lines and well-crafted base.
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In terms of antiques that will hold value due to their versatility, Hunt also loves the look of a Gustavian armoire. “A more restrained version of the Neoclassical style, Gustavian architecture can be added easily to a ski home with darker tones and still work, or even a desert or island vacation home,” she says. “The lines are a bit cleaner and more straight.”For added storage and a way to up your antique game, she suggests adding an armoire from this period into your home.
Mid-Century Italian Furniture
Mid-Century Italian Furniture
Freund says, “Mid-century Italian design continues to attract a lot of attention, with the 1970s [being] particularly robust.” He notes that designs produced by Stilwood, such as and , are particularly hot. “ is another name that is growing in popularity.”The says, “While the aesthetics of the 1920s and 1930s have been consistently on the rise since 2021, the 1950s have been slowly declining. Also trending lower are the modern shapes of the 1960s that reigned in 2020-2021, with designers moving to 1970s bohemianism in 2024 globally.”
Nikhita Mahtani is an NYC-based freelance journalist covering primarily health and design. She graduated with an M.A in Magazine Journalism from New York University and loves to debunk popular health myths. Her idea of wellness includes a sweaty spin class, wine with loved ones, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
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