ANTIQUE VS NEW, PART 2

ITEMS TO CONSIDER BUYING NEW

Curtains: Especially in older houses, windows are never a standard size. Finding a second hand blind or curtain which are the correct size and the fabric you like and with the correct lining is very unlikely. Sure, you can reduce the size of second hand curtains and add in linings but it is worth asking a seamstress what the cost of this will be – you may find that you aren’t making much of a saving. Another thing to bear in mind is smells – fabrics can absorb fabrics and if they were near a kitchen or exposed to cigarette smoke, you might find the smells tricky to get rid of. I have also tried those online curtain making companies and again found them a little tricky. You have to get your measurements spot on, which is not always super easy, especially with old houses where the floors or window recess is not square. Most local areas will have a number of seamstresses or curtain makers who will often measure up themselves, work with whichever fabric you choose and add in a lining to your requirement. For a lovely plump, cushiony look, I would recommend a lovely thick ‘bump’ lining and also letting them pool a few cm on the floor. Curtains are such a big investment that it is well worth going through an interior designer to help get the right look for the room.

Bedding: I have already mentioned throws and eiderdowns, which I think are perfectly fine to buy second hand but I do think that buying quality sheets, duvet covers and pillow cases is worth the splurge. Better quality will wash better, feel better and should last years. I usually go for a white, maybe with a scallop or frill edge, but rarely a colour. I think the colour is nicer coming from the throw on top and cushions. On the subject of bedding, I also think it is worth investing in a good mattress and high quality duvet and pillows. I also often go up duvet size (a king duvet on a double bed for example).

Armchairs/sofas/ottomans: Ok, I know I also put these into the ‘buy antique’ category but I think there is an argument for new too. I think there are some lovely companies now making sitting room furniture and the choices of fabrics are extensive too. Sofas and Stuff, Loaf and sofa.com all have some lovely offerings, although I would be tempted to sit on the sofas first. I have a Loaf sofa with 100% feather cushions and I do have to say it’s quite a lot of heavy lifting off and back on with the cushions to make it look plumped so I would suggest maybe a foam/feather hybrid. Interior designers often have connections with sofa makers/upholsterers who will make your sofa/chair bespoke for you and this will often come out cheaper and higher quality than buying from a big brand. I for one have got a couple of lovely trade accounts with local manufacturer’s and can work with you to produce a sofa/chair to the correct size, shape and fabric. With regards to ottmans, I think you can buy antique, no issues, but just make sure you know before purchasing what the cost to upholster it will be. Again, your interior designer can also order custom ottomans direct from the manufacturer which often works out cheaper than bigger brands. Next tip – where to shop for antiques!