Collected, curated and treasured
Family heirlooms and vintage finds can be incorporated into modern spaces
[Photo courtesy Koontz Furniture and Design]
Traveling down memory lane, I can recall countless Southern Sunday dinners. They were a work of art, with inspirations derived from friends and family who would gather — a new harvest, shared recipes from a neighbor or newspaper clipping, or a simple love of connecting and serving others.
My affinity was for the atmosphere that was meticulously crafted all week by the host. Design treasures were all around me: China cabinets, tables and buffets, porcelain décor, dinnerware, table linens and the furniture I patiently waited upon while every pot and Pyrex dish was being perfectly placed. These were all candidates for forever keeps.
All of these items and more were the supporting cast to the main event, however. The truth of the matter was, my youthful eye had not yet been cultivated to appreciate such timeless prestige.
While working with clients who have valued and preserved their family heirlooms or newly minted heritage pieces collected over their lifetime, I hear similar stories that start with, “My kids don’t want any of this.” If you are that kid, take a second look as you may be throwing the baby out with the bath water.
Keeping everything may not be the answer as, quite frankly, that could be a burden, but there might be that special uncommon item that gives your room a curated feeling and warm depth of character.
I recently worked with a client who had a buffet handed down to her. It was prominently placed in her dining room. This solid wood, small scaled, simply crafted, unbranded, wood piece was nestled in a room filled with furniture and accessories from the twenty-first century. It was perfect and personal to her. She desired to take the room to another level. One change was to crown the buffet with a tall, sleek, clean lined mirror that enhanced the buffet and gave it a position that communicated, “I am here and I belong.”
There are many interior design terms for mixing the old with the new. Modern Heritage, Transitional, Hipstoric and Grandmillenial all come to mind. Think of it less as a trend and more like enhancing your personal style.
Whether you are displaying a family heirloom or a treasured find from thrifting or online vintage shopping, be fearless in incorporating these pieces into your modern spaces while creating your own unique style.
Ocala native Kay Rains is a skilled designer with degrees in architecture and interior design. She has an eye for balancing aesthetics and function with a refined vision. She believes every client has their own story to share and each design should be created with thoughtful precision, showcasing a space uniquely reflective of the client’s life, needs and aspirations. Her consistent dedication and innate flair means every project is executed to the highest standard and with joyful enthusiasm.
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Koontz Furniture and Design
3111 S. Pine Ave., Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 622-3241
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