The design trend of mixing interiors with contemporary and antique pieces is constantly gaining momentum and personalised interpretations. The broad narrative of 21st-century home décor aesthetics – industrial chic, modern minimalist, contemporary French rustic, transitional eclectic or Afro-chic – all benefit from the depth, charm and layering potential that carefully chosen decorative antiques bring to a space. The best place to start is by introducing antique chairs; their versatility and styling potential are unmatched in the world of interior design. 

If you are looking to invest in furniture that adds character, history, flexibility, and subtle sophistication into a contemporary setting, then integrating antique seating – occasional chairs, conversation settees, dome chairs, daybeds, French sofas, Chinese yoke chairs etc – into modern living spaces is the answer. 

Occasional chairs | Where guests love to sit 

Occasional chairs are the unsung heroes of antique seating. Their compact size and diverse designs make them perfect for introducing beautiful moments of nostalgia into modern living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, studies, kitchens or entrance halls. They are a welcome and irresistible invitation for any visitor to sit awhile.  

Not only are these seating options conversation starters, but they easily transform into functional works of art. 

Reupholstering an antique occasional chair with a bold, vibrant or contemporary fabric that complements your colour scheme and style is where you get to have some bespoke fun. Then just observe guests as they enter your home; they will immediately be drawn to an occasional chair that tells its own décor story. 

Dome Chairs | Where royalty meets modernity

Dome chairs – aka canopy chairs, porter’s chairs, balloon chairs or Versailles chairs – are reminiscent of regal opulence and luxury. Originally designed to protect one from a draft, these imposing antique seating options are classic accent pieces that make a striking and flamboyant statement in modern interiors. 

Dome chairs boast intricate carvings and ornate details that perfectly juxtapose their historical grandeur against the clean lines and minimalist décor of a contemporary setting. Placing a dome chair near a large window or as a focal piece in the centre of a room will never fail to be the wow factor; creating a harmonious blend of old-world charm and unexpected sophistication.

Daybeds | Where everyone loves to put their feet up

Daybeds (or chaise lounges) are the perfect ‘laidback’ statement pieces if you have extra space. As versatile furniture options, they meet the brief of perfectly fusing style and functionality. Consider an antique daybed as a unique seating/lounging option for a reading nook or even as an alternative to a traditional sofa. 

Bring a daybed into the 21st century by adding modern scatter cushions, decorative throws or a cosy blanket. The contrast of old and new creates a dynamic energy, making the daybed a focal point that seamlessly adds to the overall design scheme. (We love the fact that South African interior designer, Steven Falcke, has included a daybed in his bathroom; illustrating his modern approach to decorating with antiques). 

Dining chairs | Where people gather

Probably the go-to option when mixing antiques in modern spaces is a set of antique dining room chairs to offset a contemporary table. This timeless pairing always works. But what about flipping the script and switching out the antique chairs for ghost chairs (or an eclectic mix of modern chairs), and rather investing in an antique (extendable) dining room table or refectory table? 

Whichever way you play it, your dining space will exude a bespoke expression that beautifully celebrates the craftsmanship of the past and the interplay of modernity. (It truly is a match made in heaven).

French-style sofas | Where conversations happen

The allure of a French-style sofa lies in its timeless elegance. But the key to translating this successfully in your living area is to balance the ornate details of the sofa with modern elements. 

Picture a gilded upholstered French sofa paired with sleek, metallic accents or a glass coffee table. A neutral colour palette will also help maintain a sense of cohesion while allowing the decorative prettiness and drama of a French sofa to be the highlight in modern living space.

A  novel way of transcending the ordinary is to showcase an antique sofa as settee dining. Unlike conventional dining chairs, settees offer a more relaxed and communal dining experience, fostering a sense of intimacy among diners. The versatility of settees allows them to blend with various design themes – from classic to eclectic – making them a perfect choice for those who appreciate the art of lifestyle curation. 

Eclectic seating | Where the design fun happens

When it comes to experimenting with décor elements in your home, never be afraid to embrace the mixing of different antique seating styles.

The magic lies in the unexpected combinations that spark visual interest.

Pair a French sofa with mid-century modern occasional chairs, or place a dome chair beside a sleek daybed. Chinese yoke chairs or riempie benches are also accent pieces that just fit with any scheme and work in any room. 

The eclectic harmony that emerges from such combinations is a testament to the limitless possibilities of antique seating when bridging the gap between antiquity and modernity.

The Crown Collection | Where antique seating is on show

Integrating antique seating into modern living spaces is a design collaboration between history and innovation. By selecting pieces that resonate with your style aesthetic, and experimenting with creative juxtapositions, you will craft a space that is individual, layered and welcoming. 

So, step into a décor world of antique, French and contemporary furniture and accessories design, where each hand-picked piece will infuse your home with

Shop all our antique seating options online or by visiting our décor store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston.