Sometimes I see the loveliest busts while I'm shopping, usually at estate sales or antique malls. I've seen them in marble, plaster, and bronze. One of these days, I'll buy one.
Marble Bust
Photo © Leah French
You don't need formal digs to display a classical bust in your home. Try one on a pedestal, dresser, or console to add another layer to a casual or modern home. My friend Wayne has one on the mantle in
When you're shopping for home furnishings, especially when vintage and antique shopping, there are all sorts of guidelines for verifying price, provenance, and quality. For furniture and other investment pieces, you'll save money and avoid mistakes by referencing those guidelines.
Chalkware Bust
Photo © Wayne Shielly
Nevertheless, sometime...
Though there's nothing like the thrill of the hunt, part of the fun of collecting is displaying your treasures. Keep collections together for the most impact, and have fun finding new ways to arrange them in your home.
Rhinestone Brooches
Photo © Wayne Shielly
I'd intended to say that any collection short of lingerie is appropriate for public display. But, then I remembered a vintage clothing store where I saw a group of old mannequins wearing frothy vintage peignoirs. I remember thinking they'd be stunning for home display.
So, I sup...
When you buy only what you love, you inevitably end up with collections. It just happens, even if that was never your intention.
If you find yourself with one of these accidental collections, consider grouping them all together -- in a curio, on a tabletop, or hanging on the wall. Displayed together, the decorative impact is greater.
Antique Engravings
Photo © Wayne Shielly
Memphis decorator Wayne Shielly bought old engravings from auctions, junk stores, and antique malls for more than 15 years. Last year,...
If you want to see how true masters decorate with secondhand finds, tour the living room and morning room of Memphis designers Stan Carpenter and Gwen Lausterer.
Pottery and books on an antique farm table
Photo © Gwen Lausterer
They're amazing at all aspects of design, but their b...
Changing your light fixtures is one of the easiest ways to personalize your home.
Vintage Italian Tole Chandelier
Photo © Leah French
Even in expensive homes, I've rarely seen a builder choose a fixture I like. They're trying to appeal to the broadest possible market, so they choose boring, generic pieces. The ones in modest homes and rentals are even worse. In addition to boring, they're usually cheap.
Don't wait until you can afford a gazillion dollar chandelier. It just isn't necessary.
Flea markets, thrift stores, an...
