Let’s cut to the chase — shopping for vintage furniture can be intimidating. Among the primary reasons? Some vintage pieces seem born to make a room look chic, while others can make it look woefully ersatz. Thankfully for used furniture first-timers, there are a few vintage pieces that are guaranteed to elevate every time. Curious to know what they are? Read on!
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Pedestal Table
A pedestal table, also known as a tulip table, is about as foolproof as they come. The table, which features a circular top balanced atop a gracefully fluted stem base, originally debuted in the 1950s. The table comes in a wide array of finishes, but for the most fail-safe version, go with a white base paired with a white laminate or Carrara marble top. This style can be easily partnered with everything from antique Louis dining chairs to Wishbone chairs. Furnishing a living room? Pedestal tables can also be procured in Mid-Century Modern coffee table versions.
Waterfall Console
Composed of a single piece of acrylic or laminate that’s been folded to at two ends to create a three-sided table structure, waterfall consoles are at once luxe and versatile. Use one of these consoles in a narrow hallway with vintage upholstered stools or seagrass baskets tucked underneath to procure a pulled-together look. Opt for a standard waterfall console with straight legs, or one with curved, Ming-inspired legs for a more avant-garde moment.
Campaign Chest
A sleek silhouette partnered with antique-feeling drawer pulls and corner protectors make campaign chests feel like the the kind of pieces that can easily swing traditional or modern. Whether matched with roll-arm sofas or low-slung, 1970s-era sofas, campaign chests feel like a natural fit. Any finish will possess impressive versatility, but for the ultimate shape-shifter that boosts any room, select a piece with a dark brown wood finish. It’ll pivot like a pro.
Louis Philippe Mirror
Louis Philippe mirrors are tall mirrors with rounded top corners and squared off bottom corners. They’re usually available in gold gilt finishes, but they’re also widely available in silver leaf finishes. In a word, they enhance every room they’re in. Though stylistically simple, their shape provides just enough architectural interest to wake up a hum-drum room. Use them atop a fireplace mantle, or simply leaned on top of a credenza or dresser. Whether you have a traditional or modern case piece, either will work exceedingly well with a Louis Philippe mirror.
Design by Susan and Ben Work / Photo by Nicole Franzen
