Looking to Dreweatts' Interiors auction on 14 & 15 June and its auction of Fine Furniture, Sculpture, Carpets, Ceramics and Works of Art on 29 & 30 June, I’ve been considering the pivotal role that antiques play in my designs. Every house has a distinct feeling and personality based on its age, its owners and how they use the space. It’s my job to take clues from the house to build a scheme. But something you’ll always find in my work are antiques, antique fabrics and decorative objects - I incorporate a lot of them. I love the impact they have in any environment be that a traditional English country house, a home in London or one overseas. Not only that, but as we examine ever more closely the impact of our lifestyles on the environment and the earth’s natural resources, the need to re-use, rather than throwing away and buying new, is becoming ever stronger. When it comes to decorating homes, using antique furniture and textiles is the most sustainable way forward.

Many of my clients come to me because they have an appreciation for antiques and know that I will work with their existing collection, adding to it where necessary. Others are inspired to begin collecting. Either way, I’m delighted to offer my help and support - be that leafing through (or browsing) auction catalogues together or attending auctions myself on their behalf. 

I grew up surrounded by antiques, so I know first-hand that they add both character and a certain softness to an interior. Even if it’s just a question of incorporating one piece to create a focal point in a very modern room - the simplicity of antique brown furniture, for example, can set a lovely contrast against more contemporary pieces. An antique introduces an element of the unexpected and the juxtaposition results in an even stronger statement. But not only that, a piece of antique furniture is also an art form; it demonstrates fine craftsmanship that most modern pieces can’t rival. And last, but by no means least, they add a story to the space.

The first steps for anyone beginning the journey of decorating with antiques should start with what a person likes, rather than focussing on the value. It’s about finding a piece (or several pieces) that speak to you on a personal level. It’s not necessary to spend a fortune from the outset. Some people will stumble over the need to focus on one period or genre which perhaps reflect the time in which the house was built. This can be important for those who are trying to restore a room or house to the original design. But my approach with clients is to encourage them to mix pieces from different countries, styles and periods, if they are comfortable doing so. The truth is that often the more contrived and forced an interior is, the less successful it is. What I try to create is a very personal energy that reflects the owner’s interest and innate character. Interior design is all about creating spaces which are comfortable and relaxing - they should be a safe haven from the outside world. The last thing anyone wants is to live in a museum. I don’t design houses for the benefit of someone looking in from the outside: my role is to make them exceptionally comfortable and personal; a perfect fit for those who live within.

When shopping for antiques, bear in mind that scale is very important: getting this right will create interest and contrast. Sometimes a large piece in a small room has a dramatic effect, the same is true of the reverse approach. Tapestries have always fascinated me. Distinct from pieces of art, they provide a wonderful scale which is often required for very large rooms and they often tell a story, too. Rugs are another strong starting point, and I like to use antique ones in all rooms including bathrooms, where the size permits. We often begin to build schemes from rugs as it helps to define a client’s confidence around selecting colour and pattern. They ground a space and lend it gravitas with character and age. At the end of the day, antiques need to be used and enjoyed - not held in aspic or behind a piece of protective glass (or, even, stashed away the attic), away from children and dogs. It’s no good designing a room that looks amazing but cannot be lived in and enjoyed by all.

Auction Details

INTERIORS: TO INCLUDE SELECTED PROPERTY FROM THE COLLECTION OF ELIZABETH GAGE, MBE
Tuesday 14 & Wednesday 15 June, 10.30am BST
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

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FINE FURNITURE, SCULPTURE, CARPETS, CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART TO INCLUDE SELECTED ITEMS FROM THE KINGSHOTT COLLECTION
Wednesday 29 & Thursday 30 June, 10.30am BST
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

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