Style Gurus & Design Experts Have Their Say... New York - According to a number of reports coming from the front-lines of the decorative arts scene, it appears that the corner may have finally been rounded for the long awaited return of 'brown' furniture's status as an in-style icon. After years of all-white, minimalist interiors, brown furniture - the kind associated with most antique shops - is no longer suffering from the 'brown is down' moniker, and instead seems to be riding a wave of popularity putting it back into form and fashion with designers, dealers, and collectors alike. Magazines and international newspapers, such as Homes & Gardens, The Telegraph, and digital lifestyle media companies like PureWow, are all awash in stories of the power of 'browns' return to prominence within the decorative arts industry. Individually renowned designers such as Martin Waller, founder of the Andrew Martin design firm, and Suzanne Duin, from acclaimed Maison Maison interiors, also seem to be in agreement that it's 'browns' time to shine once more. Duin says she shares her colleagues belief that 'there's a desire for the natural and a craving for earthy themed tones again,' but also thinks that brown wood has a broader general appeal and is a 'warmer and more contemporary alternative to just a grey decorating canvas.' For Harold Blum, who's manages one of Philadelphia's largest antique and interior design firms, it's been like an ever-changing world of trends that seem to come and go like the seasons. From minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics to bold maximalist statements, Blum says homes have reflected the prevailing tastes of the moment, but now believes that amidst this ever-shifting landscape, there’s a quiet revolution happening that's celebrating the return of brown antique furniture as much more than just a passing trend. "Our sales of Georgian inspired Victorian pieces are selling into homes that were once white-washed with a modern motif," says Blum, "with some even being repeat customers who just a few short years ago were only interested in purchasing Mid-Century." Blum thinks that as many of these younger buyers age into their forties, and acquire 'forever' homes, the desire for warmer and more traditional furniture will start to take hold. In design groups across the Internet, there have also been rumblings on a number of related forums and websites recently about the rise and return of brown furniture to it's famed decorative status. Kimberley Hill & Associates, a design consulting firm that also hosts online forums related to decorating, says that for years brown furniture was unfairly labeled as dated, heavy, and clunky. "It was the kind of furniture that often ended up in yard sales or was hidden away in attics," says Hill. However, a group of contemporary designers and colleagues who work with Hill, say they're ready to challenge this perception. They see the intrinsic value of these pieces - crafted from solid, dark woods like walnut, teak, rosewood, and mahogany - as essential contributors to a well-rounded and soulful living space. "Our requests from clients for dark wood has gone up tenfold in the past two years," says Hill, "but it's not just us experiencing the surge, other designers on decorative forums say they're seeing the same level of increased interest as well." David Knowles, who's been showing at some of the largest antique fairs up and down the east coast for over forty years, says he's relieved to see the pendulum finally beginning to swing back to the 'brown side of town' again. As a dealer, Knowles says he remembers the heyday of brown furniture back in the 1980's, and admits that while it's nothing like that yet, he still feels that the tide has finally turned. "It may just be an east coast thing for the moment," concedes Knowles, "but it's definitely taken root, and from what I've seen, it only looks to be gaining traction." Knowles says that many of the younger dealers who also attend some of the same shows as he, have also begun to add more dark furniture to their repertoire of inventory. "The numbers are up," says Knowles, "which means that if you happen to be sitting on a well-stocked supply of items, or bought cheaply enough in the past, you're probably going to see some pretty decent profits in the next little while." Of course, no one is suggesting you have to go all-in when it comes to buying and decorating with brown furniture, but as online vintage designer and retailer Madeline Smith likes to remind her clients, "It's all about balance." Smith who's been buying and selling for almost twenty-five years says that the key to incorporating brown furniture into any design motif comes down to three simple concepts. "First, work sparingly. Rather than filling an entire room with dark pieces, choose one or two standout items. Make them focal points that add depth and character. Whether it’s a chocolate brown antique leather sofa or a beautifully grained wooden sideboard, less can indeed be more. Second, mix and match. Don’t limit yourself to a single wood finish. Mixing different wood species and finishes adds uniqueness to your space. Pair golden teak with rich dark walnut against taupe or grey walls for definition and contrast. And finally, try to seek balance. To avoid the dark and dreary look, accentuate brown furniture with lighter accents." Smith says that by not opting for just the 'brown' look with her clients, and instead advocating for a more evenly distributed approach, she's actually sold more dark furniture recently than ever before. "Sometimes less can be much more," says Smith, "don't try to oversell it, especially if it's starting to sell itself." While most design experts and industry-insiders would probably agree that brown furniture has certainly not returned to the forefront of the decorative arts movement just yet, there is also likely to be a simultaneous consensus from many in the business that a trend-revival and resurgence of the 'brown' motif is already well on its way. Once considered passé, it would now appear that many of these pieces are suddenly making a triumphant return, reclaiming their place in contemporary interiors while captivating designers and homeowners alike with their timeless charm and enduring appeal. - A.I.A. Staff Writers NOTE: For readers seeking more information about the Asheford Institute Of Antiques distance-learning program on professional-level appraising, the study of antiques, collectibles, vintage and mid-century modern items, please click here to visit the school's Home Page. Should you have additional questions about the Asheford program, you can also write to the school at: [email protected] or call the Registrar's Office toll-free at: 1-877-444-4508. Buying In-Person Has Its Advantages New York - While most antique dealers are aware of the fact that they can simply go online and tap, tap, tap, till their heart's content when it comes to sourcing out antique and vintage items, the question still remains for many in the industry as to whether or not this is truly the best option for those wanting to obtain the best possible inventory at the best possible prices. Yes, 'smalls' can be shipped, and online items can be viewed from the comfort of your home, but are you really getting the best resale deals for your business when hitting up sites like Chairish, scrolling Marketplace or watch-listing eBay? For a growing number of dealers, that answer is increasingly becoming a hard no, as many in the industry are once again returning to a tried-and-true method for stocking up on inventory that allows for in-person inspection of items, point-of-sale haggling, and a load-and-leave option to bring it all home the same day. For those of a certain age, finding these honey-holes often used to require a secret handshake or possibly even a knowing-nod (wink, wink), but today, with a little intrepid investigating from staff writers, and some on-site tips from a few industry-insiders, we've put together a list of what we think are some of the best locales for sourcing out a variety of great antique and vintage finds from across the country, and in Canada too. Adamstown, Pennsylvania Adamstown, often referred to as Antiques Capital, USA, lies in Lancaster County. Here, around twenty antique and vintage stores beckon collectors with some unique finds and what many report as dealer friendly prices. Sheila Hayes, a long term east-coast picker and regular to the Adamstown scene, says this is the first and often best stop along her twice-yearly antique buying trip. "Prices are fair," she says, "but more importantly there's just so many quality items to choose from." Hayes believes this plentiful supply of quality pieces is what makes one-stop-shopping for her store a lot more possible. "They're showroom ready," she says, "and they tend to move quickly with buyers." Spots to hit: Black Angus Antiques Mall, a good collection of antique furniture, collectibles, and vintage jewelry (check hours of operation). Mad Hatter Antique Mall, over a hundred booths showcase a wide selection of vintage goods from a group of eclectic dealers. Extravaganza Sales; plan your visit during one of the area’s periodic antique sale events and you'll get additional discounts. Visitor numbers are still down somewhat post-pandemic, so haggling and deals should be expected. Old Town Cottonwood, Arizona Nestled in the scenic Verde Valley, Old Town Cottonwood boasts a world famous eclectic secondhand and vintage scene with a variety of shops and stores all within walking distance. Papillon Too; from antiques to vintage items, this is often considered a go-to staple for resellers looking for unique must-have top quality vintage items. Prices are on the higher end, but examples are often in pristine condition. J & J Antiques; multiple dealers with reasonable prices on rustic antique and vintage items. Most of the stores in this area contain an eclectic mix of quality pieces with dealers who are motivated to sell. Locals report that foot-traffic has also been impacted by online buyers and reticent post-pandemic travelers, leaving plenty of opportunity for walk-in's and those who like to negotiate. As an added bonus, if you happen to get thirsty while there - you're in luck - as the town is also famously known for its craft beers. Millerton, New York Millerton, nestled in upstate New York just two hours north of Manhattan, exudes a distinct charm. Its independent businesses and local commerce create a warm and welcoming environment for antiquing. Here are the highlights: Millerton Antiques Center; with over thirty-five dealers, this center offers specialty stalls featuring fine European art, pottery, and Oriental rugs. Sarah Pugh, who attends regularly on behalf of her Manhattan gallery, says that prices can be higher than some places, but most dealers are willing to deal to dealers. "It's load-and-leave shopping," she says, "the selection is just so good, I can literally come home with two months worth of inventory from just a single afternoon's buy." Other notables include: Main Street Finds - don’t miss Hunter Bee and Montage - both mainstays in Millerton’s well-established antique scene. Local Flavor; while antiquing, recharge at the Irving Farm Coffee House, known for its fair-trade coffee and freshly baked pastries. Wiscasset, Maine Wiscasset, with its historic grandeur overlooking the Sheepscot River, is a picture-perfect Maine village and one of Sam Waterman's favorite destinations when it comes to picking up some top-tier goodies. Waterman's upscale antique business in Boston has been sourcing inventory from the Wiscasset area for generations. "My father used to take me there when I was just a kid," he says, "with some of the dealers becoming like family." Waterman acknowledges that you really have to know what it is you're buying to make a profit, but says it's worth it if you happen to have potential clients waiting in the wings. Not to be missed: Water Street Antiques; a well-cataloged collection of fine Americana, weaponry, books, and folk art. Michael Dunn Antiques; known for a world-class collection, some of their pieces have even graced museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Victoria & Albert Museum. Also of note; the Wiscasset Antiques Mall and the Wizard Of Odds in the Old Head Tide & Feed Store. Prices are going to be 'up there' at some locations, but then again, so is the quality. Just make sure to leave enough room for some resale margin if you do decide to buy. Canada's Maritimes Heading north, the Canadian Maritimes, particularly Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, offer a unique blend of European and maritime influences. Coastal towns with a rich seafaring history often have antique shops filled with nautical artifacts and vintage items at extremely attractive prices - especially for international buyers. Mary Stouts, a longtime dealer who hails from just outside of Sackville, New Brunswick, says that she's been serving as a de facto trade-stop for American dealers coming up to buy for over forty years now. "With a favorable exchange rate over twenty-five percent and dealer discounts, it's a buyers dream for most U.S. customers," she says, "after all, where can you find some of the earliest antiques on the continent at these kind of prices." What to see: Antiques Plus in Belledune is a great place to start, but roadside outbuildings with no visible business signs abound in virtually every town, and are a pickers delight. Just ask around and the friendly locals will point you in the right direction. Walnut, Iowa Tom Bradford, a coast-to-coast picker, who's been on the road for over thirty-five years, says that he's seen the highs and lows of the antique industry, and that while right now it's rolling again, you really have to know where to buy to make some big profits. "I don't go to the Brimfield or Round Top shows," he says, "they're too congested and the prices are just too high." Instead, Bradford says he concentrates on shows like Walnut, a city in Pottawattamie County, Iowa. Smaller, and off the grid to some degree, Walnut is known as Iowa's Antique City, with over a dozen antique shops lining its historic Main Street. You can browse through a variety of goods, from furniture and pottery to toys and books. Start with: Granary Mall; lots of signage, old Coke machines and everything else in between. The annual Walnut Antique Show occurs in the middle of June, and is favorite of pickers from far and wide. Hazel, Kentucky Another contender that often flies under the mainstream radar, this small town near the Tennessee border has a population of less than five-hundred, but a reputation for being an antique lover’s paradise. You can find over a dozen antique shops along Main Street, offering a wide range of items, from advertising signs to quilts, to glassware and pottery. Store highlights include: Mantiques; with a vast collection of oil and auto signage and railroad memorabilia, there's an eclectic mix of just about everything to be found. Blue Moon Antiques; offers larger case pieces that have been well sourced by the proprietors. Many dealers report store owners to be receptive to discounts and bargaining for those working in the business. There are of course many factors to consider when contemplating the merits of hitting the road in search of antique and vintage items as opposed to the convenience of online shopping and local Internet pick-ups. However, when weighed against the hands-on experience, face-to-face interaction, and availability of quality sourced goods from respected vendors, it would appear that some dealers today are indeed opting to return to in-store purchases as a way of not only exploring the rich tapestry and decorative history of North America first-hand, but also as means of potentially acquiring some unique and one-of-a-kind treasures at some very reasonable prices. - A.I.A. Staff Writers NOTE: For readers seeking more information about the Asheford Institute Of Antiques distance-learning program on professional-level appraising, the study of antiques, collectibles, vintage and mid-century modern items, please click here to visit the school's Home Page. Should you have additional questions about the Asheford program, you can also write to the school at: [email protected] or call the Registrar's Office toll-free at: 1-877-444-4508. |
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November 2024
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