Introduction
Antique chests, dressers and buffets can add a sense of history, charm and character to any room. When incorporated thoughtfully, these handsome antique pieces become elegant focal points and provide plenty of practical storage options. Decorating with antique case goods requires some knowledge of styles, quality construction and creative display ideas to showcase them to best effect. Learning the basics helps make decorating with antique chests, dressers and buffets an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Styles and Popular Woods
Antique chests, dressers and buffets come in a variety of styles that help date them and determine their origins. Some of the most popular antique case good styles include:
- Colonial American – Made of native woods like cherry, maple and pine from the 17th to 19th century. Feature simple styling, turned legs, carving and inlays.
- Elizabethan – English style from 1558-1603 featuring geometric moulding, split baluster turnings, inlay and soft regional woods.
- Dutch – Originating in New York and New Jersey in the 17th century, noted for simplicity, utilitarian design and vibrant painted decorations.
- French Provincial – From the 18th century, marked by elegance, refinement and ornate hand-carved detail.
- Victorian – Mass produced in the late 19th century during the industrial revolution, typified by heavy ornamentation.
Popular woods used in antique chests, dressers and buffets also help indicate their age and origin. Some typical woods found include oak, mahogany, walnut, cherry, maple, pine and rosewood. Understanding the different characteristics and uses of these woods helps appreciate the quality of antique case goods.
What to Look for When Buying
When shopping for antique chests, dressers or buffets, there are some key things savvy buyers look for:
- Quality craftsmanship – Dovetail joinery, hand-carved elements, precision finishes. Avoid nicks, glue marks or nails sticking out.
- Authentic vintage hardware – Ornate brass handles and hinges suitable for the style. Avoid mismatched modern hardware.
- Solid hardwood construction – Durable solid woods avoid warping versus veneers. Check drawers for sagging.
- ** Condition** – Well-cared for antiques will have a lovely aged patina versus major scratches or stains.
- Provenance – History of previous owners, receipts or markings help authenticate age and origins.
Taking time to carefully inspect potential purchases helps ensure acquiring quality antique case goods that will become treasured heirlooms.
Decorating Tips
Chests, dressers and buffets lend themselves beautifully to a variety of decor styles. Here are some top decorating tips:
- Place an antique chest at the foot of a bed in a traditional bedroom, using the top as a display for family photos.
- Flank a living room fireplace with matching antique dressers topped with lamps to create a cozy symmetry.
- Tuck a French provincial buffet into a dining room corner to store and display china while adding elegance.
- Paint a vintage dresser in a bright accent hue and distress it for some shabby chic farmhouse flair in a kitchen or entryway.
- Accentuate the natural woodgrain beauty of an antique chest and convert it into a TV console or sofa table for rustic charm.
- Strip a bargain find dresser to the bare wood and stain it dark for an antique yet contemporary look in a den or office.
With a little creativity and stylistic panache, chests, dressers and buffets can do so much more than simply provide storage. They become focal points and add character to any living space when decorated thoughtfully.
Maintaining and Repairing Antique Case Goods
Caring properly for antique chests, dressers and buffets helps preserve their integrity and value. Basic maintenance guidelines include:
- Use lined drawer paper to protect delicate interior finishes.
- Dust regularly using a lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
- Use furniture wax sparingly on stained wood surfaces when needed.
- Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and excess moisture that can damage finishes.
- Ensure sturdy leveling on floors to prevent rocking and sagging over time.
- Test drawers glides yearly and lubricate with paraffin wax if sticking occurs.
With careful use and maintenance, quality antiques can last for generations as usable furniture and not just museum pieces. Know when to call in a professional for repairs to avoid causing inadvertent damage.
Creating Focal Points in Every Room
Incorporating antique case goods throughout the rooms of a home as accent pieces helps establish cohesive design and allows their unique beauty to shine.
Entryway – An antique chest or hall tree makes a perfect catchall for storing bags, hats, scarves and dog leashes conveniently when arriving home.
Living Room – An ornate antique buffet with glass doors allows for displaying cherished objects while cleverly concealing modern audio/visual equipment.
Dining Room – Antique sideboards make elegant and functional dining room focal points for storing table linens while displaying serving pieces.
Bedrooms – Vintage apothecary chests or dressers converted to nightstands lend character and needed bedside storage space.
Home Office – Refinished antique dressers offer style and abundant space for supplies and office equipment.
Kitchen – Repurposed antique pie safes, now fitted with shelves, become charming pot racks or spice storage.
Letting these handsome antique pieces take center stage provides endless opportunities to appreciatively showcase their historic styling in every room.
Final Thoughts
Decorating with antique chests, dressers and buffets requires some knowledge of construction, original use and how to creatively repurpose them today. When given places of prominence, their unmatched styling brings warmth, character and unique charm unmatched by any new reproduction. Seek quality craftsmanship and display these handsome antiques proudly. With proper care and maintenance, they become lasting heirlooms to treasure and enjoy for generations to come.
