-THE JOURNAL-
What you should know before buying vintage furniture
By M.Chaves
What you should know before buying vintage furniture
There’s something undeniably special about vintage furniture. As an interior designer, I’ve always believed that the pieces we choose to live with should tell a story—and vintage furniture does just that. It brings character, charm, and individuality to a space. But beyond aesthetics, there’s also a strong case for choosing vintage when it comes to sustainability and craftsmanship.
Before you start filling your home with second-hand treasures, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Look for Quality and Craftsmanship
One of the main reasons I often encourage clients to consider vintage pieces is the quality. Many vintage items, particularly those made before the 1980s, were crafted with a level of care and attention that’s rare today. You’ll find solid woods, hand-carved details, and joints that were built to last. It’s worth learning to spot these signs—dovetail joints, for example, are a good indicator of a well-made drawer.
That said, not all vintage furniture is high quality. Be mindful of pieces that have been mass-produced in more recent decades, as they might not stand the test of time in the same way.
Vintage as a Sustainable Choice
Choosing vintage furniture is, quite simply, one of the most stylish ways to live sustainably. Rather than buying something new, you’re extending the life of a piece that already exists—keeping it out of landfill and reducing demand for new production. Many vintage items are made from durable, responsibly sourced materials, and with a little care, they can last for generations.
As someone who works closely with restoration artisans, I’ve seen first-hand how a well-loved piece can be brought back to life with a bit of creativity. A fresh finish, updated upholstery or subtle reworking can transform an old chair or cabinet into something completely new, without losing its soul.
Know What You’re Buying
Before buying any vintage piece, make sure you inspect it properly. Wobbly legs or broken mechanisms might be repairable, but they’re worth factoring into the cost. I always advise clients to check for signs of woodworm or other damage—look for tiny holes, powdery residue or an unpleasant smell. These can often be treated, but it’s better to catch them early.
Also, take measurements. It sounds obvious, but vintage furniture doesn’t always fit modern spaces the way we expect. Whether it’s a high-backed armchair or a sideboard with a deeper-than-usual frame, make sure it suits your layout before bringing it home.
If possible, try to learn a bit about the piece’s history. Labels, maker’s marks or even a quick chat with the seller can give you valuable insights—and occasionally reveal that you’ve found a hidden gem.
Restoration Isn’t Just Repair—It’s Reinvention
For me, restoration is where the magic really happens. I’m not talking about returning a piece to its original state, necessarily. Often, I work with artisans to reimagine vintage furniture—bringing out its character in a way that feels right for a contemporary home.
That might mean painting a traditional cabinet in a bold colour, or reupholstering a tired armchair in a modern fabric. Done well, this kind of thoughtful restoration can elevate a piece from ‘old and worn’ to truly one of a kind.
Avoid the Common Pitfalls
There are a few mistakes I see people make when they first start buying vintage furniture:
- Falling in love too fast – It’s easy to get caught up in how unique a piece looks, but always take a step back and think about whether it works for your space and lifestyle.
- Underestimating the cost of restoration – A bargain isn’t really a bargain if you end up spending more than expected on repairs. Know what you’re willing to invest—not just in money, but in time and effort.
- Overdoing it – While I’m all for a good vintage piece, too much can overwhelm a space. I always encourage a balanced approach—mix old with new, and let each item breathe.
Making Vintage Work in Modern Spaces
The key to integrating vintage furniture into your home is balance. I often use one or two standout pieces in each room to anchor the design, then layer in modern accents around them. This creates a look that’s curated rather than chaotic.
Think about contrast—pairing a sleek, minimal space with a richly detailed antique mirror, for example, or placing a mid-century chair next to a contemporary table. When done well, this interplay between eras brings depth and personality to a room.
“There’s something inherently special about vintage furniture—it brings a layer of soul to any space that brand new pieces often lack.”
— Nate Berkus
Final Thoughts
Bringing vintage furniture into your home isn’t just about style—it’s about storytelling, sustainability, and creating spaces that feel lived-in and loved. As a designer, I find that these pieces add soul in a way that no mass-produced item ever could.
If you’re thinking of taking the leap into vintage, do it with curiosity and care. Seek out quality, be open to the transformation process, and trust your instincts. And if you’re unsure where to begin, working with a trained eye can make all the difference. A professional can help you uncover hidden gems, avoid costly mistakes, and curate pieces that truly elevate your home. The right vintage find won’t just fit your space—it’ll become part of your story.
Mauricio C.