I have a special fondness for antiques. I got my start working in an antiques and vintage store right out of school, and being exposed to the collectible curios of days past definitely set the stage for my future decor preferences. Antique items have a patina that can’t be recreated, and if you ask me, a room just isn’t complete without a few historical items dotted throughout.

Large-scale accessories like lamps, mirrors and pieces of furniture are great, but even small accessories can do the trick. Antique boxes, sculptural wall sconces, and even vintage picture frames can give your room a sense of wisdom and history.

I particularly love to see how today’s designers incorporate antiques both large and small into their designs. My current favourite is James Farmer. His “classic with a twist” interiors showcase the very best of Southern elegance, complete with traditional antiques. If you don’t know his work, you can check out his portfolio here. I’ve got to say, I’m pretty obsessed with just about every one of his looks.

James Farmer and Decorating with Antiques

The English secretary bookcases used in the two rooms above show that they aren’t specific to just one place or just one use. I’m a particular fan of using one in a hallway. It gives a reason to linger in a space that would otherwise just be a passthrough.

The faux bamboo chest at the end of this hallway is a great focal point, but what really caught my attention is the wheatsheaf sconces. I’m a big fan and snagged my own pair for a steal years ago. They retailed for around $800 in the store where I worked, and I found them for $200 at a rundown vintage store elsewhere in the city.

I will always adore bowfront chests. Even more so when they’re used outside of a bedroom.

I love this eclectic space because it’s both daring and traditional at the same time. I’m not sure how old the chinoiserie screen behind the couch is, but it’s spectacular.

What I love about this vignette is that it would be almost impossible to recreate. There’s no way you could walk into a store and find items with these shapes and patinas.

So what about you? Are you as much a fan of decorating with antiques as I am? And how about the incredible work of James Farmer? Check out his book, A Place to Call Home, and his Instagram for more beautiful photography!