Edward Hurst is a renowned interior designer with a deep love for antiques and vintage treasures. He’s known for seamlessly blending these pieces into modern spaces, proving that antiques aren’t just for old homes or stuffy interiors. When done right, antiques can bring charm, history, and a unique personality to any room. However, mixing antiques with contemporary elements requires a thoughtful approach. Edward Hurst’s decorating principles offer a great roadmap for doing just that. Here are his dos and don’ts for successfully decorating with antiques.
The Dos of Decorating with Antiques According to Edward Hurst
1. Do Mix Antiques with Modern Elements
One of Hurst’s key philosophies is that antique pieces should never be isolated from their surroundings. He suggests pairing antiques with modern or contemporary furnishings to create a balanced and dynamic space. This blend of old and new ensures that your home feels fresh, but still has character.
- Tip: Pair a vintage armchair with a modern sofa or mix antique side tables with contemporary lamps. This creates contrast and gives the space energy without feeling heavy or outdated.
2. Do Embrace the Charm of Imperfection
Edward Hurst encourages homeowners to appreciate the natural wear and tear of antiques. The charm of these pieces often lies in their history—the scuffs, marks, and patina tell stories. Don’t be afraid of slight imperfections; they add character to the space and can even create interesting conversations.
- Tip: An antique dresser with some scratches or an aged leather armchair can be a focal point in the room, providing texture and history without sacrificing style.
3. Do Invest in Quality
While it’s tempting to fill your space with antiques that are cheap or readily available, Edward Hurst believes in choosing pieces that offer quality craftsmanship. Focus on acquiring well-made antiques that are timeless in design and will stand the test of time.
- Tip: Look for solid wood furniture, unique vintage lighting, or handcrafted art pieces that will not only elevate your decor but also retain their value over time.
4. Do Mix Different Eras
A common misconception about decorating with antiques is that they all need to be from the same era or style. Edward Hurst suggests embracing pieces from different time periods to create a layered and eclectic look. When mixed thoughtfully, different eras can complement each other and create an interesting dialogue within the space.
- Tip: Don’t be afraid to pair a Victorian chaise lounge with a mid-century modern coffee table, or Art Deco lighting with Georgian cabinetry. It adds richness and makes the space feel lived-in and dynamic.
5. Do Focus on Proportions and Scale
While antique furniture can be bold, it’s important to consider the scale and proportion of these pieces within the space. Edward Hurst advises that larger antiques (like armoires or dressers) should be placed in spacious areas where they won’t overpower the room. In contrast, smaller pieces (like vintage chairs or decorative objects) can be used in more intimate spaces.
- Tip: Make sure your antique bedframe fits comfortably in the room, leaving enough space for movement. Use small antique mirrors or trinkets to accessorize shelves or mantels without making the room feel cluttered.
6. Do Pay Attention to Color
Color is essential when integrating antiques into your home. Edward Hurst recommends choosing a cohesive color palette that allows both your antiques and modern pieces to shine. Whether you're working with muted neutrals, earthy tones, or bold pops of color, keep the overall palette in mind when incorporating antiques into the design.
- Tip: A neutral wall color paired with colorful antique textiles (like vintage tapestries or embroidered cushions) can create a warm, welcoming space without overwhelming the senses.
7. Do Use Antiques as Focal Points
Antiques naturally have a strong presence in a room. Edward Hurst advises that you make them the centerpieces of your design. Whether it's a grand antique mirror over a fireplace or a baroque-style dining table, these pieces can set the tone for the entire space.
- Tip: Position your antique armoire or vintage sideboard in a place where it’s clearly visible but doesn’t obstruct the flow of the room. This will allow the piece to act as a statement and create an inviting atmosphere.
The Don’ts of Decorating with Antiques According to Edward Hurst
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Space with Antiques
One common mistake in decorating with antiques is cramming too many pieces into a room. Edward Hurst warns against overcrowding spaces with too many antique objects. The charm of antiques is that they stand out—they should never compete with one another for attention.
- Tip: Use one or two key antique pieces per room, and let them breathe. An antique side table, for example, is much more impactful if it stands alone, rather than being surrounded by other antiques.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Mix in Contemporary Pieces
While Hurst advocates for mixing different eras, he also warns against using too many antiques in isolation. This can result in a space that feels like a museum or period room rather than a modern, functional home. Be sure to incorporate modern pieces alongside your antiques to create a balanced, contemporary feel.
- Tip: Integrate modern art, sleek lighting, or contemporary furniture into the space to prevent it from feeling too stuffy or overdone.
3. Don’t Neglect Proper Care and Maintenance
Antiques require care and attention to preserve their beauty and integrity. Edward Hurst stresses that you should never neglect the maintenance of your antique furniture. Regular cleaning, restoration, and care can extend the life of your pieces and ensure they continue to shine.
- Tip: Regularly dust and clean your antique furniture using gentle cleaners. Polish wooden pieces, and don’t forget to keep upholstery clean and well-maintained.
4. Don’t Ignore the Functionality of Antiques
While antiques are often valued for their aesthetic appeal, it’s important not to overlook their functionality. Edward Hurst reminds us that some antique pieces might need a bit of updating to make them practical for modern living. For example, a vintage chair might need to be reupholstered to make it more comfortable or durable.
- Tip: If an antique piece isn’t as functional as you’d like, don’t hesitate to reupholster, refinish, or restore it. This allows you to preserve its charm while also making it more suited to everyday use.
5. Don’t Get Stuck in One Style
Edward Hurst encourages homeowners to avoid being overly committed to just one decorating style. Decorating with antiques doesn’t mean you have to embrace a completely traditional or vintage look. Hurst suggests being flexible and allowing the antiques to work in tandem with your personal style.
- Tip: You can mix industrial furniture with antique lighting or pair a contemporary artwork with a vintage vase. The beauty of antiques lies in their ability to blend with various styles and environments.
6. Don’t Overuse Antique Clutter
Clutter is never stylish, and this holds true for antiques. Hurst advises against hoarding or displaying too many small antique knick-knacks that can make a space feel cluttered or chaotic. Instead, he recommends selecting a few statement pieces that really highlight the beauty of the room.
- Tip: Use antique vases, clocks, or objects d’art sparingly. A few well-chosen pieces will have much more impact than overcrowding the shelves with miscellaneous antiques.
Final Thoughts: Antiques as Timeless Treasures
Decorating with antiques is an art form, one that requires a delicate balance of old and new, function and form, and history and modernity. Edward Hurst’s dos and don’ts provide a valuable guide to creating a space that feels both timeless and fresh. By mixing antique pieces with modern elements, appreciating their imperfections, and selecting items with care, you can create a home that feels uniquely personal, rich in history, and perfectly suited to today’s lifestyle. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an existing room, antiques have the power to elevate any space and make it feel truly special