How To Buy - Antiques & Vintage

Bring unique character and a heritage flair to your home with pre-loved buys

- Thea Babington-STITT

Look out for vintage mirrors at antique fairs or second-hand shops that can be upcycled or restored

STARTING OUT

To qualify as a genuine antique, the piece should be over 100 years old. Vintage is deemed as anything over 20 years. If you’re looking to find a piece to fit a certain space, take measurements before setting off on your search. Look for potential – if there is repairable damage that won’t cost a fortune to fix, or a sturdy framed armchair that can be reupholstered, it could still be cheaper than buying new.

LIGHT SHOW

Stately Empire chandelier, from £825, Sweetpea & Willow; Grisewood lamp and shade, £195, Oka; Matthew Williamson English Garden single wall fitting, from £66, Pooky

Atherton four-seater pillow back sofa in Imperia Ivory, £1,885, Drew Pritchard Exclusively for Barker and Stonehouse

BUYING AT AUCTION