What’s old is new again

By Ellen Driscoll
Location Coordinator, Country Home Ideas

In the Country Home Ideas office, I’m somewhat the vintage queen. Aside from having an avid passion for Slyvac rabbits, old tea sets and brass figurines, I’m also a big collector of Art Deco jewellery and clothing from the forties through to the sixties.

With all the hype about ‘vintage’ looks in decorating lately (and a not inconsiderable obsession with Mad Men in this office) I thought it would be a great time to clarify the difference between ‘antique’, ‘vintage’ and ‘retro’ - in case you’re feeling a little confused. And who could blame you, things seem to be quite muddled.

Antique
Antique generally refers to anything over 100 years old, except for rugs, which are considered antique at 80 years or older. In this category, Art Nouveau, Victorian and Edwardian pieces are becoming increasingly hard to find in their original condition and are steadily gaining in value. Typically, items this old were made with a great deal of care and attention to detail as in the day, decorating a home wasn’t as quick and easy as nipping out to Freedom for a new sofa. Just a word of warning though – altering antiques can decrease their value so consider having them valued before you re-paint them.

Vintage
Vintage is a definition of anything between 100 and 20 years old. Items starting from the Art Deco period right through the early ‘90s fall under this category. Clothing, furniture, crockery, you name it! Think logically when it comes to investing in a vintage piece of furniture – is it solid timber rather than veneer? Is it structurally sound? Does it have a timeless quality? If so, it’s probably a wise investment.

Just to confuse you further, retro items are vintage, but not all vintage is retro. Retro actually refers to furnishings and decor from the 1950s through to the 1970s, a kitschy, mid-century modern look that stemmed from post WWII advances in production. It often features shiny metals, vibrant colours, mixed materials and sleek, curvy designs. We’re seeing a nod to that look now with industrial-style furnishings and reproductions of the famous Eames chair.

If any of this interests you, take a trip to nanna’s house and ask her about any old vases, chests of drawers and even her wedding dress – you never know, you might find a valuable old gem.