Antiques have the ability to completely transform a space, and as the world adjusts to working remotely, our homes may benefit from a little transformation. Turning the kitchen table into a comfortable workspace which inspires concentration and productivity is no easy feat.
If you are in need of some inspiration for a new way of working that may well continue after this current period of isolation, then look no further. We have rounded up our top ten favourite items from Dreweatts’ forthcoming auctions to help you turn your home into a creativity-boosting workspace, so you can stay inside and still get the job done.
This partners desk by the renowned Lancastrian workshop of Gillows is not only undeniably timeless and classic in its design, but its relatively modest proportions ensure this is a functional and manageable piece of furniture which would be at home in both smaller and larger interiors.
This large inkwell instantly dresses up a desk with its vibrant green onyx base. In addition to hiding a clever ink basin underneath its snout, this whimsical bear is a real conversation starter, not to mention a friendly companion in the absence of colleagues.
This canework armchair could be considered a handsome ancestor of modern and decidedly duller looking ergonomic office furniture. The elegantly curved backrest and handy casters ensure comfort and mobility all at once.
Add atmospheric lighting to your workspace with a pair of decorative table lamps. The present examples are adapted from candlesticks and add a touch of Louis Philippe style gravitas with their strong paw feet and dark, lacquered finish.
No better excuse for a tea break than this tortoiseshell caddy, which is inlaid with floral designs as fine and delicate as the tea leaves themselves.
This inviting armchair would make a cozy spot for reading anything from work emails to a good book. Its light, colourful upholstery by Colefax and Fowler gives the 18th century frame a fresh twist, bringing it into the contemporary interior.
Great minds think alike. Channel the strategic mind of the Iron Duke with this elm portrait relief plaque, to tackle the pressing tasks of the day.
These two versatile bronzes add a playful element to your office space and are the perfect size for a desk, library table or even a bookshelf or mantelpiece.
Keep your brain muscles active with a variety of board games to enjoy at home, including chess, chequers and dominoes. This inventive coromandel casket with its hidden trays and compartments may have been the work of Leuchars, the renowned London-based 19th century games company, who are known to have produced a compendium of this type.
Finally, it is important to stay hydrated while working from home. This heavy baluster glass or goblet is a true collector’s item due to its large proportions, but if we are honest we also see its potential for an end of day happy hour.
AUCTION DETAILS
Fine Furniture, Sculpture, Carpets and Ceramics
This is an online auction with an auctioneer.
Tuesday 19 May | 10.30am
Dreweatts, Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE
View online catalogue
View page turning catalogue
Interiors
This is a Timed Online auction.
Day 1 | Tuesday 7 July | 10.30am | View online catalogue
Day 2 | Wednesday 8 July | 10.30am| View online catalogue
CONSIGN TO A FUTURE AUCTION
To consign to a future auction or to arrange a free auction valuation, please email valuations@dreweatts.com or complete our free online valuation form here.
Sign up for auction alerts and our monthly newsletter to receive expert analysis and insights from our specialists and keep up-to-date on forthcoming auctions, valuation days and previews.