As we look towards AW21 trend forecasting, it seems antiques will continue to bask in the interior design spotlight. They add a sense of character to your home, making it entirely unique, while also lending a greener edge to your shopping habits. From repurposed antiques, heritage pieces and restoration projects, this trend is a physical manifestation of character and personality.
With Google Trends reporting a 300 per cent increase in searches for antique accessories compared to 2020, Camilla Clarke, creative director at Fitzrovia based interior design studio Albion Nord, shares her thoughts on antique accessories which are predicted to be a leading trend for AW21.
Sustainability driving the popularity of antiques
A surge in popularity for antiques and vintage furniture has emerged due to a greater awareness of sustainability and the stories behind these unique pieces.
Clarke predicts that “as the use of antiques in the home has gathered momentum in the mainstream over the last year, AW21 will see shoppers looking for more specific styles and becoming more discerning in the kinds of antique pieces they want in their homes”.
She added: “This is especially true of antique wooden furniture. Mid-century coffee tables and chairs will always be popular, but AW21 will see a resurgence in more decorative, 17th-century styles with thoughtful details like hand-turned bobbin or barley twist legs.
“We have noticed bobbin furniture is increasingly popular at antiques markets and at auction, and this is reflected in some of the contemporary homeware companies’ recent collections including those by Alfred Newell, Soane and Soho Home.”
Antiques and repurposed materials create a sense of heritage
“Every home and design should have some sort of story attached to it. If the design doesn’t tell a story about the homeowner, the house or the surrounding area, it can then lack depth and connection. Whether it be a design around an inherited piece of art or a celebration of the classical features of a property, this will help create the soul and character of a home and make it different to any other house,” says Clarke.
“For example, we are working on a new countryside project where we are using the wood from a large fallen oak tree that has been growing in the grounds of the estate for hundreds of years to create a beautiful bespoke table in the wine room. By connecting the design to its surroundings, it adds a story of inheritance and character that makes it special and unique from any other design.”
Having worked on a large range of projects, from contemporary penthouses to traditional Georgian homes, Clarke prides herself on creating spaces that have a sense of warmth and character. Strong relationships with suppliers and craftsmen coupled with her passion for art and antiques mean that Clarke is able to create a timeless and unique identity for any interior.
Clarke set up Albion Nord in 2017 with co-founders Ottalie Stride, Anthony Kooperman and Ben Johnson.
