The Crown Collection—Antique Articles

Welcome to our antique articles, where the enchanting world of antique furniture unfolds before your eyes. Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of captivating articles covering trends, topics, and décor tips dedicated to the timeless allure of antique furniture. Our expert writers delve deep into the rich history and craftsmanship of these exquisite pieces, offering insightful perspectives and expert advice to help you navigate the realm of antique furniture with confidence and style.

Discover the latest trends in antique furniture, from classic styles that never go out of fashion to emerging design movements that breathe new life into old treasures. Uncover hidden gems and learn about iconic furniture pieces that have shaped interior design throughout the ages. Our articles not only highlight the beauty and rarity of antique furniture but also explore the stories and cultural significance behind each piece, allowing you to truly appreciate their timeless charm.

The Crown Collection | A one-of-a-kind antique store experience

Categories: Articles, Blog, Press|Tags: Antique armoires, Antique chandeliers & mirrors, Antique French furniture, Antique shopping, Antique store, The Crown Collection Antique store|

You don’t have to follow Lucy Pevensie through an antique wardrobe to experience a sense of awe and wonder. You just have to step through the doors of the recently revamped Crown Collection antique store in Johannesburg. Each area is thoughtfully arranged and filled to the brim with hand-picked decorative pieces that evoke a sense of history and place; a treasure trove that is literally the adult version of feeling like a kid in a candy store (or in Narnia).

Speaking of wardrobes, a highly desirable and curated collection of armoires, linen presses and cabinets awaits; satisfying your quest for the perfect and versatile antique storage solution that will complement any contemporary space and aesthetic.

A very special antique store experience

For those on the outside, there may be no logic to the fascination of browsing and shopping in an antique store. But for those on the inside – the antique lovers and collectors – shopping for antiques is a no-brainer.

The minute you step over the threshold, your senses are assailed with an overload of visual beauty and you will be hard-pressed not to touch, stroke or ‘ooh and aah’ at the decorative displays before you.

That is simply the Crown Collection’s unique story and offering.

A wonderland of antique delights

As you anticipate the Crown Collection’s antique store experience, a sense of respect and curiosity will overtake your desire to rush around trying to find the perfect accessory or piece of furniture. They are all perfect. So take your time.

Here’s a taste of how your journey will unfold:

You will want to look up and pause under the soft lighting of an antique crystal chandelier. (Which Victorian ballroom did this once grace?).

You will want to sit awhile in a grand and sumptuous 19th-century giltwood Louis XVI Fauteuil-style armchair. (What gossip was exchanged by ladies-in-waiting?).

You may want to lounge elegantly on a chaise – aka a daybed – and imagine yourself as an Edwardian heroine in a Jane Austen novel.

Your nostalgic memories will be awakened as you hear an antique grandfather clock chime; transporting you back to a moment in time.

You will be transformed as you stand in front of an oversized gilded antique decorative mirror. (“Will it fit in my car?” you wonder).

Not into a gold patina but rather looking to give your decor a silver twist? Never fear. The Crown Collection’s silverware options will have you adding shiny vignettes in your kitchen, dining room, bathroom or on your dressing table.

And then there is the vast array of French ‘ooh-la-la’ antique pieces. The Crown Collection’s choices are so enchanting, feminine and chic, you will want to give your bedroom a French-style makeover or find ways to add a little French flair to your home.

From your entrance hall and WFH (work from home) space to your contemporary bathroom or modern kitchen, The Crown Collection antique store is where you will find the perfect statement piece to mix and match with any aesthetic.

A place to linger (in-store or online)

Across the global landscape of antique shopping, London and New York are well-known as iconic hubs. But that experience is also available at The Crown Collection Emporium in Johannesburg; a drawcard for interior designers, homeowners and lovers of all things antique.

Whether you are searching for a specific item or merely some inspiration, you are sure to find it among the 5000+ curated pieces that are on show at The Crown Collection’s beautifully revamped antique store located at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

If you are not in the Johannesburg area, a virtual antique store experience is yours online. Although second best, the entire collection is at your fingertips. And with nationwide delivery, your next statement piece from The Crown Collection is simply a click away.

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4 Reasons why interior designers love decorating with antiques (and so should you)

Categories: Blog|Tags: Antique furniture, antiques, interior design|

Antique furniture has awakened a revival among interior designers and inspired homeowners in the last decade. Conversations around sustainability have revealed antiques as winners in long-standing debates around slow furniture and become small contributors to the big issues of climate change. Similarly, the stylish layering, intrinsic charm and rich style story of antiques make them leading competitors in decor conversations when it comes to pairing contemporary and traditional furnishing ideas.

As South Africa’s largest emporium of curated and hand-picked antique furniture, The Crown Collection shares 4 convincing reasons why interior decorators are rushing to purchase antiques:

#1 Antiques are sustainable investments

Climate change and conscious consumerism have become buzzwords in contemporary interior design culture, influencing purchasing decisions in favour of slow furniture items.

Relatively inexpensive, mass-produced furniture has a short life span, requiring updates to keep abreast with fashion trends (ultimately impacting our carbon footprint). In contrast, antique furniture is crafted to stand the test of time, and with the added versatility of subtle changes – such as bleaching or reupholstering – the opportunity to transform and reinvent tired furniture pieces extends their lifespan (and versatility) even further.

While the price tag of antiques may appear costly at first glance, when you consider their longevity and minor environmental impact, they become desirable and worthwhile investments (since they actually increase in value over time).

#2 Antiques are unique in a sea of generic & modern pieces

Few interior decorators advise their clients to make their homes mirror the front pages of this month’s SA Home Owner magazine. Though the styles on the glossy cover pages are inventive and stylish, opting to duplicate them in your home will mean providing nothing novel, unique or personalised to bring character and life to your space.

Blending something old and something new is an age-old tradition that is perfectly expressed in homes when it comes to decor and furniture choices.

There’s good reason for this attraction of opposites. The open-plan, light and airy feel of modern spaces can lack warmth and interest. By adding a few antique statement pieces:

You can spark conversation and layer your design story
Home owners can break up the generic
Designers can deliver a unique, inspired space
The detailed wood carvings, curves, gilded metalwork, marquetry and decorative flourishes of antiques complement the straight lines of modern design, providing a much-needed touch of ‘je ne sais quoi’.

#3 Antiques embrace so many styles

Whether you’re captivated by the flair and charm of French-style decor, or want to transport your home into the Victorian era with ornate, oversized furnishings, antiques are must-have items in this decor pursuit.

Antiques are also a design solution if you want to contrast your aesthetic with a toned-down interior that moves away from excessive ornamentation to a more neoclassical emphasis on symmetry and minimalism.

If you want your home to espouse an Art Deco style with sleek geometric lines, fine workmanship and luxurious detailing then antiques, again, are your answer.

#4 Antique furniture can be repurposed for any functional space in your home

The versatility of antiques, in comparison to their modern furniture counterparts, is unmatched.

The interior design trend of maintaining particular furniture items for a singular function has gone with the wind.

An antique armoire can move from its traditional function in the bedroom, to storing linen and towels in the passage or bathroom, trinkets in the entrance hall, or providing a touch of character to a modern living room
A tapestry can move from an artwork on the wall to function as a table covering
A silver teapot can go from its traditional purpose on the teatray to featuring a colourful display of flowers in the bathroom.

Repurposing antiques can also take the form of reupholstery, gilding, French polishing, bleaching or darkening – which all form part of an added professional service offered by The Crown Collection’s restoration centre.

Choose from our range of antique furniture at The Crown Collection

With over 5 000 stylish decorative antiques in one emporium, The Crown Collection is the one stop shop for the discerning buyer.

Shop online or visit our physical store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

3 Modern decor styles that need antiques

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Adding antiques to contemporary spaces, Adding antiques to modern decor styles, Antique armoire, Antique mirror, Antique rug, Antiques store Johannesburg, Chandelier, Mix antiques with modern decor, Riempie bench, The Crown Collection Antique store|

Creating a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle is comprised of varying design expressions and decor options. It often comes down to a careful balance of form and function, and mixing the old with the new. Antiques are a popular, sustainable and timeless choice – as well as a versatile solution – to getting this right across many design aesthetics.

Three decor styles that benefit beautifully from the addition of antiques are modern minimalism, modern maximalism and modern Afro-Chic. Each style has its own nuances and characteristics, but they all gain a boost of personality with the addition of well-chosen pieces of antique furniture.

Antiques and modern minimalism – ‘Less is more’

Minimalism, as a philosophy, involves stripping things down or editing things back to their most basic form. As an interior design aesthetic, it emphasises simplicity, clean lines, a neutral palette and uncluttered spaces.

A minimalist approach highlights essential elements such as light, form and beautiful materials to create a free sense of flow and calm. There are no extras and the few details that are used blend harmoniously into the overall setting.

Because the focus is on removing distractions, furniture and accessories are carefully curated and kept to a minimum. Antiques play a crucial role in a minimalistic space by adding texture, depth and interest to an otherwise monochromatic and ‘sterile’ room.

A sense of history and authenticity is often missing in a modern minimalist design and well-chosen antique furniture pieces – such as an armoire – become a purposeful focal point and conversation piece. The calm is not interrupted, but a sense of elegance is introduced into a neutral palette.

The secret is choosing an antique piece of furniture that will complement your minimalistic style story rather than detract from it.

Antiques and modern maximalism – ‘More is more’

Sophie Robinson – iconic British interior design and colour expert – is the queen of the maximalist aesthetic. One glance at her bold approach to colour and pattern leaves you energised and in awe of how her busy ‘mix-and-not-match’ philosophy just works; making even the die-hard minimalist smile and start dreaming about introducing colour or pattern into their spaces.

“This is a heartfelt design style, and you must prioritise fabulousness over practicality at every opportunity.” -Sophie Robinson. Her tips for getting the look right include using a tight colour palette to create pattern harmony and repeating similar colours, patterns and design styles for overall cohesion.

As a style, a maximalist aesthetic celebrates excess patterns, plenty of accessories and highly saturated colours; creating spaces that are extravagant and playful.

And this is where antiques quickly become the ideal solution as a much-needed contrast; allowing your eye to rest as it takes in the seemingly chaotic busyness of a maximalist-designed room.

Well-placed antique pieces also anchor a maximalist space by providing a sense of structure and balance.

A large antique mirror will cleverly and beautifully reflect the vibrant patterns and colours of the room’s decor
An antique chandelier will create a striking and definitive focal point.
An antique rug will ‘ground’ a seating area or bed and blend with all the other playful patterns and colours
An antique dresser will certainly be an arresting statement piece if painted in a bright colour.

Embracing a maximalist aesthetic is all about creative expression and how that informs your interpretation of fantasy and imagination in a space.

Antiques and modern Afro-chic – ‘A more eclectic vibe’

From the Cape to Cairo, Africa has always inspired artists and design trends. Although Afro-Chic is a hard design aesthetic to definitively pin down, at its core, it draws inspiration from our rich and diverse African culture and heritage.

It’s an eclectic melting pot of rustic elements, bold geometric patterns, animal prints, natural fibres, organic shapes, handwoven fabrics and traditional artworks.

The Afro-Chic colour palette is a visual inspiration from nature and is both subdued and edgy. Earthy tones (terracotta, ochre, orange and off-white) are the moody backdrop to vibrant green and sky blue accents as well as pink, magenta and purple hues of an African sunset which add an animated sense of joy.

The craftsmanship of antiques, the natural wood finishes and the artisanal detailing all harmonise with an Afro–Chic narrative; cleverly creating a sense of continuity to tie the eclectic ‘mismatched’ elements together.

An antique wood carving from West Africa can be repurposed as a mantle piece.
An antique beaded stool from East Africa can be used as a side table.
A rustic antique bench in front of a fireplace becomes a gathering place.
An antique riempie bench is a versatile addition to any room in the house.

Be it the clean lines of modern minimalism, the colourful boldness of modern maximalism or the eclectic vibe of modern Afro-Chic, antiques become a way to create a unique and timeless living aesthetic.

The Crown Collection – A ‘modern’ antique store

Assisting you in incorporating antiques in modern spaces – no matter your style – is what The Crown Collection Store does best. Not only will you find what you are looking for from more than 5 000 handpicked items, but any piece you purchase is an investment and likely to increase in value over time.

Whatever your modern decor preference, an antique piece is an obvious choice to elevate, balance or add contrast to your home.

Shop online or browse our curated collection in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

5 Principles for mixing antiques with modern pieces

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: `antiques in contemporary spaces, Antique furniture in modern spaces, mix antiques with modern pieces|

The love for artisanal beauty and the timeless, sustainable characteristics of antiques have influenced decor trends for decades. And current trends in design only reinforce this with homeowners – of all ages – wanting to include the richness and value of antique pieces into their modern aesthetics. According to Pinterest, “Boomers and Gen Z will find new ways to honour old stuff in their homes, combining vintage and inherited pieces with modern styles.” Simply put, antiques never go out of fashion.

Contemporary sleek, minimalist spaces gain immediate personality with the addition of antiques which, instead of taking away from the modernity of the overall interior scheme, actually create a harmonious balance.

“When we want furniture for our homes, we usually think of buying new items, but there are so many reasons why antiques and vintage pieces are a better buy. Antique and vintage furniture cost much the same as new furniture and increase in value, unlike new furniture. Not only are antiques a great investment, but they also have history, are beautiful and they never date.” -Jacqui Moskovitz, Director of Marketing, Operations & Procurement at The Crown Collection.

Antiques instantly add character, interest and story to a modern home. But if you don’t know how to mix the old with the new, you may end up with an interior that looks unbalanced, mismatched, or incongruous.

(We recently highlighted Stephen Falcke’s home which is a striking case study of combining antiques in a modern home).

You don’t need to be an expert collector to seamlessly integrate antique furniture or accessories into your home. You simply need a little knowledge of the basic principles and then you will have the tools to successfully mix and match antiques into any contemporary space.

#1 Scale, balance & proportion

Modern homes are often open-plan and generally subscribe to a light, neutral and airy feel that may be cold, bland and lacking ‘something.’ This is where the substantial gravitas of antique pieces immediately add interest and warmth and are elevated to the status of a ‘statement piece’ or ‘conversation piece.’ It just takes one carefully selected piece to completely transform a room and break up a generic and overly coordinated contemporary look.

To avoid a room looking ‘shabby,’ it makes sense to spread the patina of antiques throughout the space so that the curation of old and new feels fresh, balanced and intentional.

The scale and placement of furniture are just as important when decorating a room. Darker, heavier and larger antique furniture – armoires, bombe chests, linen presses, secretaires and chests of drawers – were originally designed for a unique context and should be placed against a wall. Antique dining tables, on the other hand, are the perfect juxtaposition to new contemporary chairs and will never overwhelm a modern minimalist aesthetic.

#2 Form, function & repurposing

Antique furniture prides itself on its beauty and versatility. In their day, they were manufactured for specific functional purposes but also showcased master craftsmanship. Over the centuries, many antique pieces have evolved from their original use and are being repurposed in modern homes today. This added sustainability adds to their intrinsic investment value.

The wood carvings, curves, marquetry and decorative flourishes of antiques all perfectly complement the straight lines of modern design. (An antique armoire becomes the perfect storage signature piece for books and objets d’art or as a drinks cabinet).

#3 Gilded, stained or bleached

Unless it is a rare collectable, antiques do not have to be displayed in their original state; they can be refinished. Your personal preferences may include gilding, staining, bleaching, painting, or upholstering – depending on the piece of furniture and your design aesthetic.

This is also where your personality comes into play and where you get to give a piece of furniture a new lease of life; ending up with a really special and unique statement or accent piece.

For customised finishes – including French polishing, hand gilding, paint techniques, bleaching or staining (darker or lighter) – our professional in-house restorers are available to transform any piece that takes your fancy from our store.

#4 Colour, texture and neutrals

The biggest challenge with mixing antiques with modern pieces is avoiding visual noise when it comes to the art of marrying different styles in one space. You do not want a room’s design to jar; its decor story needs to make sense. Even if you have a quirky or eclectic design bent, there still needs to be a sense of harmony and cohesion.

Unite different pieces and styles with the same colour palette – this could be wood tones, metals, an accent colour or repetitive fabrics or patterns. This is the easiest way to integrate disparate elements.
Refinish a variety of antique pieces in different woods with one paint colour, stain or paint technique to create visual continuity.
Balance a mix of signature pieces or furniture styles with a neutral or monochromatic background.
Anchor a scheme with black accents which also adds a sophisticated design element.

#5 Signature, accent & statement pieces

The quickest way to create maximum impact in a modern space is with just one carefully chosen antique piece of furniture that becomes the hero piece of the room. This is where you can go big and bold with a large-scale piece that is dramatic and commands attention – a huge gilded mirror, a grand linen press, an ornate French sofa, a decorative screen, a large antique painting or an oversized chandelier.

Once the main attraction is in place, you can build the rest of the scheme around that. If you are not brave enough to commit to or invest in a standalone signature piece, then start with smaller accent pieces such as side tables, a kist, a console table or an occasional chair which can all easily be moved around your home.

Antiques and The Crown Collection

Incorporating antiques into modern spaces has never been more accessible than a visit to the Crown Collection.

For further inspiration on how to include antiques into any design aesthetic, visit our blog page, or simply start shopping our curated collection and eclectic combination of decorative antiques and modern and classic styles.

Give your bedroom a French-style makeover

Categories: Blog|Tags: antiques, bedroom, French|

The understated elegance, warm atmosphere and bespoke charm created by French decor create such a distinct harmony that you may need to pardon your French. And if you want to give your bedroom a little ‘je ne sais quoi’, then the muted colours, extravagant lighting, touches of gilding and natural materials of antique French style will prove to be the wow-factor and a worthwhile investment.

Inspired by 100s of years of culture, history, landscape and lifestyle, there’s no wonder French-style decor has remained a staple in both modern and antique interior design trends for centuries.

Whether you wish to add a touch of an antique French theme to your boudoir or combine old and new French design trends, The Crown Collection is here to help you explore the best of hand-picked antique French furniture finds from beds to mirrors and everything in between:

It’s all about the bed

As the most important and essential piece of furniture in the room, the bed must be the hero piece; demanding attention and shaping the visual theme and story of the space.

The antique French style focuses on detail, design, decorative elements and ornate shape – key requirements in your quest to furnish your space with a suitable bed.

Choose between an elaborate and ornately carved French oak bed bleached to provide a natural wood finish and fit with the subtle poise of French flair or a dramatically oversized mirror headboard that not only creates a dramatic visual focal point but also adds depth to the bed and additional light to the room. The Crown Collection will quickly become your one-stop emporium where a curated range of French beds and headboards are ready to fit your design brief.

And if you really want to up the ante and soften the space with a sense of aged authenticity, then a handmade French Aubusson carpet is a desirable investment.

Linen that subscribes to a pale, neutral and light colour palette will complement an antique headboard with a feminine charm.

For a bold and innovative statement, mix and match a similarly coloured antique dressing table or vintage armoire with a modern dresser, blending the old and new to create a personalised decor story. (But be sure to keep with the subtle French theme of wood with a washed, bleached, distressed or aged finish in a lighter tone).

It’s all about the occasional chairs

Every French-styled bedroom deserves a touch of sophistication and whimsy, and what better way to add functional versatility and a dramatic dose of ‘je ne sais quoi’ than with a couple of occasional chairs.

A pair of Louis XVI chairs will add a distinctive grandeur to your bedroom. And whether they’re placed at the window or alongside a coffee table at the foot of the bed, these antique occasional chairs can serve to provide an intimate conversation vignette in a larger room.

If you have less space to play with, perhaps consider a smaller, but equally stylish, pair of French-style gilded armchairs or a pair of 19th century French giltwood bergeres.

It’s all about the bling

The understated and gentle elegance of French style means that a room can never be too gaudy or over-the-top with excessive shine. But there are a few exceptions.

Just like French women who are adept at jazzing up their classic understated fashion attire with a shiny necklace, bracelet or handbag, a hand-picked antique French chandelier will quickly become the much-needed ‘jewellery’ accessory in any bedroom that dreams of being French.

Gilding is another simple way of adding shine and appropriate glam to an otherwise bland, neutral, grey and white French colour scheme. A golden patina – in the form of gilded antiques – is rumoured to have become the LBD (little black dress) of interior design. As alluring as it was in the 18th century, gilded French antiques have never lost their appeal. Choose to give a mirror, occasional chair, headboard or coffee table some classy French bedazzle with The Crown Collection’s exclusive gilding service (in either silver or gold).

It’s all about the mirrors

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? The answer is clearly a bedroom with the refined elegance of French-styled gilded mirrors.

Select something tall and stately or small and charming – there’s little that can go wrong with adding a light-reflecting French mirror to your bedroom. Alternatively, a small hand-held mirror can give your dresser a fairy-tale charm.

Whether you group a few French-style mirrors together in a modern space to create a dramatic collage effect that takes the place of artwork, or hang a round, oval, square or rectangular mirror individually, antique mirrors always echo French sophistication.

The Crown Collection’s restoration team would be delighted to stain, paint, French polish, bleach or hand-gild a mirror of your choice to suit your specifications.

It’s all about the accessories

Once you’ve purchased all the larger pieces of furniture for your French-styled bedroom, why not elevate the French old-world charm look with a few classy antique silverware accessories?

Placing a bunch of flowers into a silver teapot or water jug is a playful touch to add personality, or splash out with a curated selection of silver trays – which you can hang on the wall to seamlessly create a cohesive French-style aesthetic. It’s not even necessary to use the plated or sterling silver items for their original utilitarian purpose. Give antique silverware a new outlook on life with a fresh perspective.

Find it all at The Crown Collection

Add a splash of bespoke French ambiance to your bedroom with our wide selection of antique French furniture and accessories from our online store or Bryanston-based showroom.

Visit the Crown Collection to give your bedroom some French flair.

Getting the mix-and-match of antiques in modern spaces ‘just right’

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Mix-and-match antiques in modern spaces|

A warm and welcoming interior seldom attributes its success to just one thing. Sometimes it takes years to achieve the look, but it always comes down to the intentional curation of many pieces – modern and antique – that naturally work together and look ‘just right.’ We recently focused on the home of Interior designer, Stephen Falcke which is an ‘object lesson’ in achieving balance, harmony and ‘just the right’ amount of quirkiness required when pairing modern and antique furniture.

You don’t, however, need an interior design background to put together a scheme that is layered, sustainable and that tells a customised story. Although there are functional design rules that will always guide a winning mix-and-match aesthetic – scale proportion, focal point, balance, lighting, cohesiveness etc – there is always a personalised bespoke element that plays a role when boldly marrying contemporary features and antiques.

Go over to the dark side

Although antiques come in all shades and hues, the classic darker wood tones somehow have got a bad rap in contemporary circles. But these darker wood antiques are currently seeing a resurgence and coming into their own in modern spaces.

The old-world charm of darker patinas gives life to a light, minimalist contemporary room. If ‘less is more’ is your decor mantra, then a dark antique piece of furniture is the perfect focal point or hero piece against an otherwise ‘neutral’ backdrop. Teak, imbuia and mahogany pieces are the ideal go-to options in a white scheme. It just takes one of these statement pieces to transform a room. This could be an armoire, a daybed, a console table or a chest of drawers.

The richness and warmth of natural materials offer a durable and long-lasting design for contemporary homes.

Be confident to play with antiques

Mixing and matching modern and antique furniture is all about playing with different wood tones and styles. The contrast of contemporary ghost chairs with an antique dining room table, or a zebra-print rug under an antique coffee table effortlessly up the Afro-chic ante.

“Our homes are our sanctuaries where we have more control over the events and energy that occur within them, so it is important to think about the materials that we use to construct them.’” -Joshua Smith, Interior Designer specializing in spiritual design.

The success of creating a sense of cohesiveness when mixing different woods or eclectic contemporary pieces with traditional antiques relies on the principle of repetition. Make sure you balance wood tones around the room and avoid ‘clustering’ all of the wood tones in just one area of the space.

Adding a fun colourful rug, a large piece of modern art (or gallery wall) or bright upholstery fabric to a chair will bring everything modern and antique together in a celebration of design quirkiness and harmony.

Add a bit of antique sparkle

When in doubt as to what to introduce as a mix-and-match starting point to give a room a ‘face-lift,’ you can never go wrong with shiny and reflective items. In other words, an antique mirror, a crystal chandelier or a gilded item (or two) are the ultimate in making a statement and creating a sense of individuality and layering.

The versatility, visual interest and potential of strategically-placed mirrors are broad; complementing art, lighting and any other ornamental elements. And as a decorative element, antique mirrors are a functional and stylish accessory that will never let a room down.

Chandeliers or lanterns quickly transform a room’s aesthetic and redefine the gentle & elegant play of light in a space. They have been, and always will be, a timeless decorative element in traditional and modern rooms.

These antique additions pave the way for contemporary sculptural pieces, edgy art and modern furniture.

Mix and match antiques to your heart’s content at The Crown Collection

A modern aesthetic is crying out for layered interest, bespoke personality and a visual story, and inspiration doesn’t come easier than popping into The Crown Collection; South Africa’s largest emporium of hand-picked antique, French and genuine vintage items that will add just the right design flair to each and every space in your home.

Shop online or visit us in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

Bleached antique furniture – giving your home a light contemporary feel

Categories: Blog|Tags: bleached antique furniture, mix and match, The Crown Collection|

Love the sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship and historical decor narrative of antique furniture, but don’t fancy the dark, heavy wood finish? Why not follow the contemporary interior design trend of purchasing bleached antique furniture or natural finished items. Adding a bleached antique refectory table to your dining room, bleached headboard to your bedroom or bleached armoire to your entrance hall can serve to lighten and brighten the space, without overwhelming it, no matter the size of the furniture item.

At The Crown Collection, we are on a mission to bring you handpicked and curated quality antique conversation starters with a unique decor story. Bleached items easily tick this box. If you want to bleach any antique piece purchased at our store, we offer an additional and professional bleaching service; making any piece fit with your bespoke aesthetic.

Here are 3 advantages of decorating your home with bleached or natural wood antique furniture:

#1 Modernise antique furniture

The history books tell the story of dark wood furniture pieces with ebony finishes dominating the opulent, luxury design sphere. ‘Blonde’ wood furniture was viewed as a Scandinavian design aesthetic and thought of as out of place in these high-culture homes.

But, the paradigm shift ushered in by the 21st century saw lighter wood finishes as modern, stylish and trendy.

Contemporary designer, Sheena Notely-Griffiths, described it as follows: “The lighter timbers create a more open, less oppressive space as they are less noticeable. They blend easily into a space and, whether matte or gloss, their luminosity creates a feeling of light.”

You’re probably not wanting to create a duplicate of the front cover of this month’s House and Leisure, but rather desire to highlight a carefully curated aesthetic of antique and vintage items, scattered among modern, more colourful contemporary pieces. Bleached items fit this brief perfectly.

The timeless beauty of antique furniture makes it a modern decor no-brainer in light of the current eco-conscious and sustainability movements. Forget the deforestation and pollution involved in manufacturing mass-produced furniture and invest in the low-impact, longevity of antiques (which actually appreciate in value over time).

By reupholstering, adding cushions, and throws, sanding down worn edges or changing the colour through staining and bleaching antique furniture, your home remains updated and maintains a fresh and contemporary finish.

#2 Lighten & brighten your home

Not only does bleached antique furniture follow up-to-date design trends, but it also complements a range of other antique furniture items, introducing an understated and comfortable sophistication to living spaces.

Bleached antique furniture gives rooms a light, airy look (or even a coastal feel, if you’re looking to decorate your beach house), and successfully balances the contrast of darker traditional antique tones.

Naturally brightening the room, bleached antiques are also the ideal contrast to moody, dark accent walls.

While dark traditional antiques give rich character to dining spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas, their heavier wood finishes can often pose a design dilemma when integrating with colourful, mix-matched contemporary furniture. This is where bleached or natural-wood finished antiques step in as the perfect modern decor solution.

#3 Add variation to historic furniture pieces

Pairing a mahogany dining room table with the same shade of mahogany chairs, a mahogany sideboard and mahogany coffee table can look heavy and overdone. Matching antiques of the same shade of wood is an old-school philosophy.

However, marrying a dark mahogany set of chairs with a bleached oak refectory table and a Dutch bleached oak cabinet can provide the space with interest, variety and depth and will completely transform the narrative.

One of the reasons interior designers love to include the contemporary, fresh finish of bleached antique furniture is because these items better accentuate the lines and details of antique furniture, making them pop with character, becoming the hero pieces of the room.

Upmarket, modern homes thrive on variety, balancing eclectic statement pieces (whether they are antique or modern) with classic neutral items. While many antique lovers will never tire of brown furniture, bleached pieces can add much-needed contrast and versatility.

We’ll bleach it all at The Crown Collection

If you want to modernise a classic heirloom, mix-and-match old and new items or contrast bold antique statement furniture pieces, then our emporium is the ideal space for sourcing on-trend bleached antique furniture.

Our experienced restoration team will bleach and stylise any antique item to create your desired look, or shop our selection of already bleached antique or natural finished pieces for every room of your home.

Bring antique furniture items into the modern era with stylish bleached furniture at The Crown Collection.

Looking for a unique year-end gift? Visit our antique store

Categories: Blog|Tags: antique clocks, Antique store, grandfather clocks, silverware|

If you are in search of a thoughtful, unique and sentimental gift that will stand the test of time as well as a one-of-a-kind collectible with a low carbon footprint, fascinating backstory and impeccable craftsmanship, then you can only be imagining a timeless statement piece from The Crown Collection; South Africa’s largest antique store offering a curated collection of over 5 000 handpicked decorative items for antique lovers.

From charming mantel clocks to regal silverware, our treasure trove of antique gifts will leave you spoilt for choice.

Once you’ve invested in an antique gift, you can rest in the knowledge that your recipient won’t receive a duplicate gift from another friend or family member. In addition, antiques not only retain their novelty for years to come, but also become investment pieces that appreciate in value over time and can be passed down through generations.

At The Crown Collection, we want to highlight our top picks for festive gifts that are desirable for antique collectors and chic modern interiors alike:

Timeless timepieces

Clocks, as we know them today, originated in mediaeval Europe and were initially exclusively installed in town halls and churches. Only in the 19th and 20th century were clocks refined in their design and used more frequently in homes.

The 21st century has antique clocks serving both functional and ornamental purposes, providing a timeless touch of designer grandeur for any room.

Whether you select a mantel or carriage clock to mingle with other decorative pieces (modern or antique) above the fireplace, a wall clock to create a single focal point, or blend functionality and old-world charm with an Ansonia clock on your study desk, these sought-after timepieces from our antique store become the artwork of interior decor.

A more ornate and commanding grandfather clock (aka a longcase clock) creates the impression that your home has been designed over time. These prized showpieces work perfectly in entrance halls or to fill an awkward niche or corner.

Sentimental silverware

The distinctive, versatile and old-world charm of silverware makes it a decor must-have in any home. And with over 250 silverware items on display at our antique store, you are certain to find something special.

Silver cutlery not only has practical value when hosting guests at the dinner table or in the living room, but these pieces of metal art have an additional decorative and stylistic value.

Known as one of the 7 metals of antiquity, you can choose to invest in a pure sterling silver or silver-plated objet d’art to give your home a silverware twist.

From wine coolers to food domes, serving platters to tea trays, cheese dishes to candelabras, simply visit our antique store for a curated selection of antique silverware.

A distinctive feature of silverware is its ability to combine with other materials to either enhance an industrial modern or antique interior – which adds to its versatility as a holiday gift for a variety of recipients.

Silver works as the perfect backdrop to antique crystal glasses and decanters or seamlessly combine it with a contemporary style by using a silver jug or teapot to display fresh flowers or a champagne cooler to store kitchen utensils.

The charming and elegant natural sheen of silverware allows it to complement whites and greys; creating a refined look or to partner with other metals – like gold or copper – for a more classical look.

Antique silver is never out of fashion and whether purchased now, or handed down through generations, it serves as a thread in family history (always trumping mass-produced pieces).

Silver, in all its manifestations, becomes usable art and a lingering memory of a more elegant and sophisticated past. (We cannot think of a more perfect gift).

Visit The Crown Collection’s antique store

Your journey to find that memorable occasion gift ends when you step inside The Crown Collection.

Reminiscent of top-notch antique stores in London, Paris or New York, we are the one-stop emporium for any discerning buyer.

Invest in a silverware piece to add a little decorative bling or an antique clock which showcases the best in artisanal story and craftsmanship.

Shop online or visit our studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

P.S. If you’re not sure what your loved one is after, give them a gift card to shop at their leisure.

Stephen Falcke’s modern approach to decorating with antiques

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: Mixing modern and antique furniture, Stephen Falcke home & antiques, Stephen Falcke Interior Designer, The Crwon Collection Antique store|

Stephen Falcke – interior designer extraordinaire – is often referred to as a ‘design luminary;’ an appropriate description of this iconic South African decorator who has left his mark on homes, hotels and apartments around the world. An award-winning designer and patron of Decorex Joburg, Stephen is also the author of ‘A World of Design’ which chronicles 25 years of his career and showcases a curated collection of 40 spaces that he has magically transformed.

His unique insights on trends, interiors and the use of antiques are worth noting. And from a Bohemian palette to a minimalist Afro-chic aesthetic, there is one constant that stands out in the way Stephen Falcke approaches all his clients’ briefs: Never underestimate the value of just one piece of quality furniture in a room.

But it is his own Cape Georgian home – aptly named ‘Dream House’ – that has charmed and inspired us and where his approach to antiques and design gives one pause and makes one smile. His personal philosophy is succinctly articulated in just 6 words: “The ultimate in luxury is comfort.”

Stephen also believes that a room should never overpower the personality or character of those living in them, which is clearly the secret to a beautifully presented home.

Let’s break down a few design moments in his home that encapsulate the relationship between architecture, furniture design, fabrics and space, and are guiding principles for any home decorator.

#1 Mix old and new

Stephen Falcke is the expert when it comes to incorporating antiques in modern spaces, creating an ‘electric combination’ and the perfect balance of things that just work together. He will be quick to mention his love for symmetry and proportion, but it is his attention to detail in selecting artworks, antique pieces and quality contemporary furniture that make his home a space to linger.

Wherever the eye lands is a story, a quirky moment, a bold statement or a call to breathe.

A wander through his home will quickly show you that although he follows some rules, he breaks others and sometimes he just makes his own. An antique daybed in the bathroom? Makes absolute sense when each room in your home is a space to be lived in and enjoyed to the max. (And who doesn’t dream of a fireplace in their bathroom?).

#2 Contrast shiny with matte

As one moves from space to space in Stephen’s home, you will quickly be struck by his love for carefully chosen objets d’art and an arrangement of artworks. He loves to showcase shiny antiques on matte surfaces and as these reflective pieces play with the light, something very special happens.

Contrasting matte surfaces with items that have a high gloss finish (antique silverware, brass objects, glassware, silver trays, lanterns or chandeliers) immediately adds a modern feel to any space.

#3 Juxtapose big with small

Proportion and scale are foundational interior decorating principles, but Stephen plays with this by often juxtaposing something really large with something small. This balancing of opposites in a room creates dynamic tension and striking interest.

By combining different sizes and proportions of objects to make a beautiful exhibit, your home starts to reflect your own style.

Stephen also has a particular love for antique lanterns which although large, cleverly offer ‘negative’ space and immediately become a functional focal point.

#4 Balance pattern, texture & detail

When it comes to layering pattern and detail, Stephen Falcke is a master decor artist. His practised eye, years of experience and natural talent are a gift to the world of interior design. His ‘Dream House,’ which employs a monochromatic scheme, boasts this ‘effortless’ interplay of pattern, detail and texture to create a rich and layered narrative that is luxurious, sophisticated, comfortable and sumptuous.

Mixing patterns and details takes some skill, but each space in your home is a backdrop to your personality. From minimalist to maximalist, interior design always has a personal subtext.

And so if you love it – embrace, celebrate it and decorate with it.

If you are still not sure where to start, indulge your senses and immerse yourself in Stephen Falcke’s book (available from our store for R1800). You will come away enchanted, inspired and ready to purchase an antique coffee table or console table on which to display the book.

You can even go a step further and buy one of the exact French chandeliers that Stephen has in his home, right here at The Crown Collection.

If there is one thing you will walk away with from Stephen Falcke’s home, it is the intense desire to shop that one antique item to magically transform your space. With over 5000 items and new stock arriving weekly, you are most likely to find it at The Crown Collection.

Browse all our handpicked antique collections or pop in at our studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

Dining in style with antique refectory tables

Categories: Articles, Blog, Style|Tags: antique dining room table, antique refectory table, mixing modern and antique styles|

If you have the space, an antique refectory table is the ideal piece of furniture to host a vibrant family gathering, cordial meeting with the neighbours or celebratory banquet with friends. Whether placed in a dining room, foyer, outdoor patio, kitchen or open-plan home, the timeless elegance of a refectory table marries a historic sense of grandeur with the practical value of dining around a table with a larger group of guests.

Originating in monasteries during mediaeval times, these rustic elongated tables were later welcomed as luxurious banqueting tables in castles, abbeys and noble residences during the middle ages. Large groups of monks ate around refectory tables in the dining room (otherwise known as a refectory) and years later the tables were adapted to convene students at academic institutions because of their capacity to seat large numbers.

These solid tables – originally built of oak or walnut and crafted using stretchers placed close to the floor to support the structure – are the ultimate focal point for a room. And the enduring quality of refectory tables not only makes them a must-have statement piece, but also a worthwhile investment piece for a traditional or contemporary aesthetic.

At The Crown Collection, we have outlined 3 styling tips to make the most of these tables in any space:

#1 Mix and match the table and chairs

The principle that one should blend ‘something old and something new’ not only applies to the bride’s choice of clothing for her wedding day, but also pertains marrying an antique statement piece with a modern contrast.

This balanced approach to interior design creates intrigue, visual contrast and balance to any space, while still allowing the homeowner to express their unique decor personality.

When you invest in a big-ticket item such as an antique refectory table, you can easily implement this mix-and-match approach by pairing it with ghost chairs, midcentury chairs, benches or antique chairs with modern upholstery. While the table will stand the test of time and be passed down through generations, the chairs can be updated every few years to change up your decor or match seasonal design trends.

#2 Contrast the table with the floor

A design no-no is matching the dining table colour to the floor. For the antique refectory table to be the hero, rather choose to complement it with a bold antique rug that echoes an old-world charm or a modern contrasting tiled or screed floor. Be sure to select a flooring finish or accent rug that helps to encapsulate the room’s focal point (i.e. the refectory table).

A carpet or rug assists in demarcating various zones in an open-plan space and complements the theme of a room by tying various elements together. And when it comes to purchasing a rug, the rule of thumb is to measure the length and breadth of the table and chairs and add at least 30cm all the way around; creating a ‘frame’ around the table.

A well-chosen rug also brings a sense of grandeur and story to the dining room, patio, entrance hall or kitchen where you have chosen to place the antique refectory table.

For smaller apartments or townhouses, where there isn’t as much space to play with, you can opt to purchase a drop-leaf refectory table, which you can open out when you host large groups and reduce in size for everyday use. (These drop-leaf refectory options are, however, quite a rare find).

#3 Use it to anchor any space

A refectory table serves as an excellent focal point for any room; be it a stand-alone dining room or an open-plan space in need of a bold piece of furniture. These pieces will always be a conversation starter thanks to their size, craftsmanship and decor backstory.

The old-world charm of an antique refectory table can also work well in a long, narrow space; the elongated shape of the table actually makes the room appear wider.

When choosing an anchoring furniture item such as a dining table, make sure that any other furniture and accessories work together as a cohesive whole rather than each piece competing for attention.

Allow all the other decor pieces and accessories in the room (lights, wall hangings, chairs and carpets) to work towards showcasing the cherished centrepiece by placing them over or around the table in such a way that the table remains the highlighted hero of the room.

Visit The Crown Collection

Browse our wide selection of handpicked antique refectory tables (in oak, mahogany, walnut or teak) to fit in your dining room, foyer, kitchen or entrance hall.

If the finish is not exactly what you are looking for, our experienced in-house restorers will gild it, paint technique it or stain it to suit your preference.

Shop our range of dining tables online or browse our treasure trove of statement pieces in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.

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