As the air grows crisp and cold, we all start living more indoors. Layering our homes and adding a bit of time-worn patina seems right somehow. And for this, there’s nothing better than something antique! Below are images from a beautiful story from Martha Stewart Living in 1999. This story was all about American colonial furniture but so many of the pieces and ideas are applicable anywhere.
Created by Stephen Earle & Scott Schy; Photography by Jason Schmidt, MSL Oct 1999
Framed silhouettes look graphic and mysterious clustered together this way. I love the pea green walls and the secretair has been faux painted to create a finer grain.
Created by Stephen Earle & Scott Schy; Photography by Jason Schmidt, MSL Oct 1999
Above is a stylish glossary of colonial motifs including finely carved ball and claw feet, the gate leg table, tilt-top tea table, chippendale drawer pull and comb-back windsor chair. Keeping an eye out for these classic motifs at thrift shops and flea markets is a great way to add substance and history to your home.
Created by Stephen Earle & Scott Schy; Photography by Jason Schmidt, MSL Oct 1999
Now isn’t this a cozy living room? A mix-and-match approach to upholstered pieces feels curated and interesting. I love the variety of colours and the interesting silhouettes of the pieces. And hey, that chandelier makes me feel good about my own little vintage one!
Created by Stephen Earle & Scott Schy; Photography by Jason Schmidt, MSL Oct 1999
Three of my favourite dining chairs in one space – the windsor chair, the shield back and the chippendale. All good ones to consider pairing with your own dining table!
Created by Stephen Earle & Scott Schy; Photography by Jason Schmidt, MSL Oct 1999
Created by Stephen Earle & Scott Schy; Photography by Jason Schmidt, MSL Oct 1999
Yes to the quilt! Yes to the constitution mirror painted white! Double yes to the white painted chest of drawers with dark chippendale-style pulls! If your space is feeling a little too show-room new, consider adding something antique – painted or not.
Well Micheal, You have made me feel right at home.Although our home is newer rather than older, it is full of so many beautiful and interesting pieces we have collected over the years. There are so many similar things in Martha’s pictures, living with us. Not to forget that the whole basement and garage is an antique store, our retirement obsession and keep busy project. I love articles of history and feel so comfortable with them. Our home must have many spirits walking through and they all appear to be kind so far. One thing you haven’t mentioned yet is an old keeper of time. We have close to 250 all working. It is amazing when people visit our house or store and beak out in song to the ticking rhythm near them. Thank you so much for the post. I can tell that you love these things as well from many of your blogs. I must stop or I would go on forever. Nancy
You know I love this post. Thanks so much for sharing because I didn’t have it on my radar. I wish this style would come back, just a little, personally I’m tired of modern.
Oh you’re right! This is perfect for you! Sorry the shots were a little crooked! It really is a beautiful story.
Thanks Katy!
Michael