Blog

No.5

March 16th 2025

The Rise Of Mid-Century Modern

As much as it grieves me, being a lover of traditional Victorian and Edwardian furniture, there has been, if not a resurgence, a rediscovery, a re-appreciation of Mid-Century Modern design. It seems to have, to all intents and purposes, usurped the position held for so long by what we would understand as the traditional ‘antique’, whether that be furniture, objects d’art or collectables.

This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including changes in lifestyle preferences, ever evolving architectural trends and the functional appeal of the MCM aesthetic. Modern (younger) buyers seeking simplicity, cleaner lines and practical elegance, often regard Victorian, and even Edwardian, design as dark, cumbersome and overpowering.

The modern lifestyle is an important factor in the domination of MCM. Modern interiors are simply not designed to facilitate the heavily adorned ostentation of Victorian parlour furniture, furniture which sits so elegantly in a grand room with elaborate mouldings, the modern interior rather lends itself to clean lines, practicality and as much open space as rooms can afford nowadays. Efficiency is now the key: Minimalism no longer being an aesthetic choice, but, in some cases, a practical necessity, the simplicity of the design helps to create an illusion of spaciousness.

Cultural influences, aided by easier access to new ideas, the media, design magazines and social media have also encouraged the shift away from tradition. Designers the likes of Ray Eames https://aram.co.k/designers/charles-ray-eames , Eero Saarinen https://aram.co.uk/designers/eero-saarinen ,and a glittering cast of 20th century furniture designers https://thefurniturerooms.co.uk/pages/designers-of-the-20th-century , have introduced new generations to the elegance and practicality of MCM design.

We know there is nothing more fickle than fashion, and while Victorian and Edwardian design styles will always hold a historical and nostalgic value, their dominance amongst interior designers is waning.

The practicality of modern design makes it a preferred choice for contemporary living, and whether I like it or not, Mid-Century Modern design appears to have captured the zeitgeist and seems set to remain at the forefront of design trends for a while yet. 

No.4

March 3rd 2025

SAVE THE PLANET: BUY ANTIQUES

In today’s world of fast fashion, mass production, pollution and waste, embracing a more sustainable lifestyle is more important than it has ever been.

One simple yet effective way to contribute to saving the planet is by buying antiques. Antiques are not only beautiful artifacts from bygone eras, but also eco-friendly choices that promote recycling and reduce waste. Many pieces celebrate quality and craftsmanship, both in materials and production values.

Antiques embody the idea of sustainability through their longevity. When you purchase an antique, you’re not only acquiring an object with history and character but also extending its life cycle. Instead of supporting the endless conveyor belt of production, limited useful lifespan and then disposal, buying antiques encourages reuse. This reduction in demand for new products translates to fewer raw materials being extracted, lower energy consumption, and less waste generation.

At this time in our history when all eyes are turned towards global warming and conserving what natural resources we have remaining to us, choosing to buy antiques rather than new products plays a small, yet significant step toward lowering our collective environmental footprint.

Antiques, more often than not, feature superior craftsmanship and quality materials compared to many contemporary products. In an age where items are frequently designed to be disposable, antiques remind us that quality and durability matter. Their construction, which was often intended to last for generations, reflects a time when products were created with care and attention to detail. Good quality antique furniture, for instance, was made in a time when the term ‘planned obsolescence’ would have been considered sacrilegious. This emphasis on longevity not only results in more sustainable consumption patterns but also preserves the cultural heritage of our past.

Purchasing antiques also supports local businesses and independent sellers, who are more likely to adopt sustainable practices. Many antique shops and flea markets are run by passionate collectors or entrepreneurs who value the history behind each piece. By buying antiques, consumers contribute to local economies and promote a market where sustainable practices are prioritized. This approach is in stark contrast with the industrial/mass-production model, that can only have a detrimental effect on the environment through large-scale resource extraction and pollution.

The act of selecting antiques requires a thoughtful and personal approach, as each item comes with its own story and character. Again, in contrast to the impersonal nature of mass-produced goods, antiques offer a connection to history and a sense of individuality. This connection often leads to a deeper appreciation for the value of objects and a greater willingness to care for them. As more people develop an emotional bond with the items they own, the culture of disposability may gradually give way to one of preservation and stewardship.

Buying antiques is a practical and impactful way to contribute to environmental conservation. It embodies the principles of sustainability by reducing waste, minimizing resource use, and celebrating quality over quantity. Every antique purchase is a commitment to a greener future — a choice to honour the past while taking meaningful steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle. So next time you’re considering a new purchase, explore the world of antiques. Not only will you find unique and timeless pieces, but you’ll also be making a decision that supports the health of our planet for generations to come.

No.3

Sept 27th 2024

WOODWORM

The scourge, and mortal enemy, of the owner of antiques and objects d’art, especially furniture.

KNOW YOUR ENEMY!

The life cycle of woodworm larvae, commonly from species like the common furniture beetle (Anobium punctatum), consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult beetle. The most destructive phase, where wood is damaged, occurs during the larval stage.

  1. Egg Stage: Adult beetles lay their eggs in cracks, crevices, or existing wood tunnels. The eggs are small and white, deposited on or near unfinished wood surfaces. After about two to four weeks, the eggs hatch into larvae.

  2. Larval Stage: Upon hatching, the larvae, small white grubs with dark mandibles, immediately burrow into the wood. This stage lasts for several years (2-5 years on average, but sometimes up to 10), depending on environmental factors like temperature, moisture, and the type of wood. The larvae feed on the cellulose and starch within the wood, creating a network of tunnels. Over time, they can weaken the wood structure significantly, but the damage often remains hidden until adulthood.

  3. Pupal Stage: When fully grown, the larvae move closer to the wood’s surface and enter the pupal stage. In this phase, lasting a few weeks, the larvae transform into adult beetles within the protective wood.

  4. Adult Beetle: After emerging as an adult, the beetle bores through the wood surface, leaving behind small round exit holes (typically 1-2 mm in diameter) and wood dust, a sign of infestation. Adult beetles live only for a few weeks, focusing on reproduction before the life cycle begins anew.

PREVENTING INFESTATION

Stopping woodworm infestations requires a combination of prevention, treatment and maintenance strategies to protect wood from further damage.

Here are the key steps:

1. Identify Infestation:

  • Look for exit holes in wood, typically small and round (1-2 mm in diameter).
  • Check for frass (fine wood dust) beneath the holes, a tell tale sign of woodworm activity.
  • Tapping or crumbling wood could indicate internal damage caused by larvae.

2. Reduce Moisture:

  • Lower humidity levels in rooms with wooden furniture or structures, as woodworm larvae thrive in damp conditions.
  • Ensure proper ventilation in attics, basements, or any damp areas to prevent moisture build up.
  • Fix any leaks in walls, roofs, or plumbing to keep wood dry

For large infestations, professional pest control services can offer advanced treatments like heat treatment, fumigation, or freeze treatments to eradicate woodworm.

Prevention and early intervention are key to stopping woodworm infestations from causing long-term damage.

WOODWORM TREATMENT & PROTECTION

 

Treating and protecting antique furniture from woodworm is essential for preserving its integrity and value. Woodworm, typically the larvae of wood-boring beetles, can cause significant damage to wooden structures over time. Here’s a comprehensive approach to tackling this issue.

Treatment: Begin by removing the affected item from your home to prevent infestation from spreading. For minor infestations, you can apply a woodworm treatment solution, available online or in hardware shops. Follow the instructions carefully, usually involving brushing or spraying the solution onto affected areas. As already mentioned, for severe cases, professional pest control may be necessary, as they have access to more potent treatments.

Repairing Damage: After treatment, assess the extent of the damage. Small holes can often be filled with wood filler, while more extensive damage may require replacing sections of wood. Retaining the original materials is ideal for antiques, so consult a skilled restorer if you’re unsure.

Storage Tips: When storing antique pieces, consider using airtight containers or wrapping them in breathable fabric. Additionally, placing cedar chips or using silica gel packets can help deter woodworm.

By combining treatment with preventive measures, you can safeguard your antique furniture from woodworm, ensuring its beauty and longevity for future generations.

No.2

Feb. 21st 2024

Georgian & Victorian Design

Another few notes on what we’re interested in. I hope you find it useful. Clicking on the links will take you to more information.

Georgian and Victorian furniture design represent two distinct periods in the history of furniture, each characterized by unique styles, influences, and societal shifts. These periods, spanning the 18th and 19th centuries, respectively, left an indelible mark on the world of interior design. Understanding the differences between Georgian and Victorian furniture design requires delving into the historical, cultural, and artistic contexts that shaped these eras.

The Georgian era, named after the four successive King Georges of England (1714-1837), is typically divided into three parts: the Early Georgian (1714-1760), the Mid-Georgian (1760-1790), and the Late Georgian (1790-1837) periods. Georgian furniture design, particularly in the Early and Mid-Georgian periods, was heavily influenced by classical elements. The designs drew inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman architecture, featuring symmetrical lines, straight legs, and classical motifs such as columns and pediments.

One prominent feature of Georgian furniture is the use of mahogany, imported from the West Indies. This dark, rich wood became highly popular for crafting furniture due to its durability and luxurious appearance. Furniture makers during this period mastered the art of veneering, where thin layers of expensive woods, like mahogany, were applied to less expensive substrates. This technique allowed for intricate inlay work and decorative details, adding to the overall elegance of Georgian furniture.

The Chippendale, Hepplewhite, and Sheraton styles are prominent examples of Georgian furniture design. Thomas Chippendale, in particular, was a renowned furniture maker whose designs combined elements of Rococo, Gothic, and Chinese influences. The Chippendale style featured intricate carvings, delicate details, and a sense of balance and proportion.

As the Georgian era transitioned into the Victorian era with the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901), furniture design underwent significant changes. The Victorian era is often divided into the Early Victorian (1837-1860), Mid-Victorian (1860-1880), and Late Victorian (1880-1901) periods. Unlike the neoclassical influence of Georgian design, Victorian furniture embraced a more eclectic and ornate style.

The influence of the Industrial Revolution played a crucial role in Victorian furniture design. With advancements in manufacturing techniques and the availability of new materials, mass production became more prevalent. This allowed for a wider range of designs and styles to cater to different tastes and budgets. Additionally, the Victorian era witnessed a resurgence of interest in historical revival styles, leading to a blend of Gothic, Rococo, Renaissance, and even Middle Eastern influences in furniture design.

One significant departure from Georgian design was the increased use of decorative ornamentation in Victorian furniture. Elaborate carvings, turned legs, and intricate scrollwork adorned many pieces. The use of upholstery also became more widespread during the Victorian era, with plush fabrics and intricate patterns adding a sense of opulence to furniture.

The Late-Victorian era saw the rise of influential furniture designers such as Charles Eastlake, who advocated for simpler and more functional designs in response to the excesses of the Mid-Victorian period. The Eastlake style, characterized by geometric shapes, straight lines, and minimal ornamentation, represented a departure from the ornate designs of the earlier Victorian periods.

At the end of the Victorian period there was a marked shift away from, a rejection of, mass production and its rigid, heavy ostentation. The Arts & Crafts Movement was the result of a change in the values of society toward a handcrafted and simpler way of design, prioritising the way things were made, combining simple beauty and functionality.

Some of the best known names, leaders and greatest exponents, of this new way of interpreting the world of design were Augustus Pugin, John Ruskin, and William Morris

Technological advances and new materials also played into the changes at the end of the century, bentwood designs and the introduction of metal allowed for greater flexibility and the introduction of novel forms.

In summary, the differences between Georgian and Victorian furniture design reflect the broader historical and cultural shifts that occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries. Georgian furniture embraced neoclassical influences, with a focus on symmetry, classical motifs, and the use of mahogany. On the other hand, Victorian furniture design showcased a more eclectic and ornate style, influenced by historical revivals, technological advancements, and changing societal values leading to The Arts & Crafts Movement at the end of the century, and all that followed. A fascinating period of design and technology.

No.1

Jan. 25th 2024

Antiques & Vintage

Hi and welcome to our first blog.

Its just a stream of thought on why antiques and vintage?

Homemakers and collectors are attracted to the romantic world of antiques and vintage for several reasons.

Logically speaking an antique or a piece of good furniture or fixture has proven itself. It has outlasted, by many years, most of the equivalent mass produced furniture or fittings bought and installed this century, not all of course. Goods are manufactured today with a a life span, a ‘built in, or planned, obsolescence’. Its a business strategy that ensures a product will become outdated (unfashionable) or functionally unusable within a specific time frame, thus increasing demand. Its a strategy used in technology, motor manufacture and pretty much any consumer product on the market. You wont be leaving anyone your iphone 12 in your will. Ask any house clearance guy how much he contributes to the local landfill.

It wasn’t always so.

To buy a good piece of furniture in the 19th century was to invest in something that you would expect to see you out, and be handed down through the family.

Nowadays an antique buyer would be attracted to that same piece of furniture because it has a story to tell, in its rich patina, the glow radiating from it after decades of care and use. The quality of the material and skill required to bring it to life. These pieces were made by craftsmen, masters in the art and magic of working with wood and leather, brass, copper and precious metals, to last more than a lifetime. Cabinet makers, carpenters, artisan makers, metalworkers, silversmiths, the list goes on. Vital trades, mostly lost to us now forever.

They bring with them not only an aesthetic beauty, which is worth the price you would expect to pay, but have a cultural and historic value that is priceless. Pinpointing fashion trends and cultural influences, the chronological march through our kings and queens and the impact they had on their time throughout our nation’s rich history.

Not forgetting with sustainability front and centre today, there is no need to plant a tree to offset the cost buying an antique. It has paid for itself many times over.