Antiques and vintage pieces for the modern home - 14 decorating ideas

Discover the art of decorating with French antiques! One of the most captivating ways to style your home is by blending contemporary pieces with antique or vintage objects. The contrast of eras creates a dynamic and visually engaging space. This blog offers inspiring ideas, illustrated with photographs of modern homes that seamlessly incorporate French antiques and vintage finds.

Explore a curated selection of timeless treasures, including Louis Philippe mirrors, Louis XV and XVI chairs, classic club chairs, sunburst mirrors, Demijohn bottles, French pottery such as confit pots, tian bowls, and vintage ironstone plates and platters. You'll also find French garden urns, butcher blocks, marble tables, antique lanterns, chandeliers, objects of curiosity, wall sconces, French candlesticks, and antique sculptures.

Not only do these pieces bring character and elegance to your home, but they also embody a sustainable choice, as each carries a rich history of ownership. Browse these extraordinary French antiques to find the perfect pieces to elevate your interior design.

1. Louis Philippe Mirrors

Louis Philippe furniture takes its name from the period of Louis Philippe’s reign on the French throne, spanning 1830 to 1848. Characterized by understated elegance, this style reflects a departure from the ornate detailing of earlier periods, favoring refined shapes and clean lines. Louis Philippe mirrors are among the finest examples of this era, celebrated for their timeless appeal and ability to harmonize effortlessly with both antique and modern interiors.

These mirrors are distinguished by their simple yet graceful frames, often with rounded corners at the top and a straight edge at the base. Available in gilded, silver leaf, or painted finishes, their versatility lies in their ability to add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming a space. The luxurious gold and silver tones offer a warm, reflective glow, while painted options provide a more subdued charm.

Louis Philippe mirrors make a stunning statement above a fireplace, lending an air of classic elegance. They also work beautifully when juxtaposed with more elaborate elements, such as wall sconces, chandeliers, or bold artwork. Their understated style allows them to act as a perfect bridge between traditional and contemporary design, making them a favorite choice for designers and homeowners alike.

2. Louis XV and Louis XVI statement chairs

Louis chairs are timeless icons of French design, offering versatility and elegance that easily adapt to contemporary interiors. Louis XV chairs are known for their graceful cabriole legs, featuring an elegant S-curve that reflects the flowing lines of Rococo style. In contrast, Louis XVI chairs embrace the neoclassical aesthetic, characterized by straighter, tapered legs that exude a refined simplicity. Both styles lend themselves beautifully to re-upholstery, making it easy to achieve a fresh, modern look while preserving their classic charm.

The Louis XVI armchair pictured above has been re-upholstered in neutral tones, allowing it to blend seamlessly into a modern living room. Paired with an eclectic mix of contemporary, vintage, and antique furnishings, it serves as a perfect example of how these chairs can bridge design eras. Their timeless appeal ensures they enhance any space, whether used as a statement piece or a subtle complement to a larger aesthetic.

For a bold and contemporary twist, Louis XVI chairs can be upholstered in vibrant fabrics, such as the striking green chairs shown below. When paired with a modern table, these reimagined pieces create a dynamic and sophisticated look, perfect for dining rooms or living spaces that embrace both classic and current design elements. Explore the versatility of Louis chairs to add a touch of French heritage and modern flair to your home.

3. Vintage French leather club chairs

French leather club chairs, dating from the 1930s to the 1970s, are timeless pieces of furniture that bring both comfort and style to any interior. Originally designed for cigar-smoke-filled gentlemen's clubs, these chairs are known for their spacious seating and relaxed silhouette. Their luxurious, aged leather patina and classic design have made them a staple of French interiors, and they continue to be highly sought after for modern homes. Whether placed in a cozy reading nook or a sleek living room, French club chairs add character and sophistication.

Large French club chairs are not only comfortable but also highly versatile. They can be softened with the addition of throws, cushions, or blankets to create a cozy atmosphere. The smooth texture of aged leather pairs beautifully with natural fibers like wool rugs or linen drapes, creating a visually appealing contrast. Additionally, their timeless appeal makes them a perfect fit for a variety of spaces, from busy family rooms to minimalist, open-concept living areas.

Less well-known but equally charming is the petite French club chair. Ideal for smaller spaces, these compact designs bring the same elegance and functionality as their larger counterparts. A petite club chair can transform a small corner into an inviting retreat or add warmth to a bedroom or office. With their distinctive style and rich history, French leather club chairs remain a versatile choice for those seeking a blend of comfort, practicality, and classic French flair.

4. Sunburst Mirrors

Sunburst mirrors are iconic decorative elements that bring a touch of elegance and vibrancy to any space. The sunburst motif has deep roots in French design, tracing back to the reign of Louis XIV, the "Sun King," who adopted the sun as a symbol of his power and influence. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the sunburst motif became a popular decorative theme, often featured in architectural details, furniture, and gilded ornaments. Today, sunburst mirrors remain a sought-after feature in French-inspired interiors, admired for their radiant design and timeless appeal.

Original Chaty Vallauris sunburst mirrors, crafted in the mid-20th century, are particularly prized for their striking design and craftsmanship. Made in Vallauris, a town renowned for its pottery and artistic heritage, these mirrors feature sleek, metal rays that evoke mid-century modern charm. For those seeking a more antique touch, carved gilt wood sunburst mirrors with a beautifully aged patina offer a luxurious and historical option. Whether adorning a living room wall or creating a focal point in an entryway, these mirrors add a layer of sophistication and artistry to any home.

Sunburst mirrors are versatile and can enhance the ambiance of all types of spaces, from seaside cottages to urban apartments. Their reflective quality brightens rooms, while their bold design adds a playful yet refined decorative element. Whether used as a statement piece or as part of a gallery wall, sunburst mirrors, with their roots in French artistry and design, are a stylish choice for both contemporary and traditional interiors.

5. Demijohn bottles

Demijohn bottles are a timeless and versatile decorative element that can transform any room with their simple yet striking design. Originally used for storing liquids such as wine, oils, and vinegar, these bottles are characterized by their large, rounded shape and translucent glass. The shiny, transparent surface of demijohns allows light to play beautifully through them, making them an eye-catching feature in any interior. Often used as vases or standalone pieces, demijohn bottles effortlessly enhance the ambiance of a space by complementing other furniture and décor.

Vintage demijohn bottles, often crafted from green or blue blown glass, add a touch of rustic charm and authenticity to interiors. These older examples, with their handblown imperfections and rich patinas, are particularly sought after for French country and coastal designs. In contrast, newer demijohns typically feature clear glass, offering a modern twist on this classic item. Whether old or new, demijohn bottles are endlessly adaptable, blending seamlessly into a variety of settings, from farmhouse kitchens to contemporary living rooms.

Demijohn bottles are equally captivating when styled indoors or outdoors. Use them to add height and visual interest by placing them on elevated surfaces such as shelves, mantels, or tables. Outdoors, they can be grouped on patios or in gardens for a charming rustic look. Their versatility makes them ideal for experimenting with different arrangements, whether clustered together for impact or displayed as standalone features. With their history and aesthetic appeal, demijohn bottles are a delightful way to bring timeless French charm to your décor.

6. Antique French pottery

Collecting antique pottery is more than a hobby—it can quickly become an irresistible passion. Pieces like confit pots and tian bowls are particularly enchanting, steeped in history and tradition. Confit pots were once used in French kitchens for preserving meats, while tian bowls were essential for preparing and serving dishes like gratins. These vessels are typically adorned with earthy glazes in hues of ocher, green, or brown, reflecting their rustic origins. Arranging pots in similar shades can create a stunning visual impact, highlighting the subtle differences in texture and tone that make each piece unique.

Antique plates and platters are equally captivating and versatile, effortlessly blending into both traditional and modern interiors. Displaying a complete set evokes a sense of timeless elegance and order. Alternatively, mixing and matching different plates with varied patterns and styles at each place-setting can bring an element of surprise and personality to the table. Vintage ironstone platters, with their creamy tones, scalloped edges, and oval shapes, also make a striking impression when celebrated as decorative wall features.

The beauty of antique pottery lies in its ability to tell a story while enhancing the ambiance of a space. Using a calming monochromatic palette, as seen in the display above, allows the subtle variations in shape, glaze, and texture to take center stage. Whether used functionally or decoratively, antique pottery and plates add a sense of history, charm, and individuality to your home. Their timeless appeal makes them an excellent investment for collectors and design enthusiasts alike.

7. 19th-century French garden urns

Medici and garden urns are timeless symbols of elegance, traditionally associated with outdoor spaces but increasingly celebrated as stunning indoor décor. Originating from classical antiquity, the Medici urn takes its name from the famous marble vase discovered in the Villa Medici in Rome and later displayed at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. These urns, often adorned with gadrooning or decorative reliefs, have inspired countless designs over the centuries. In the photograph above, an antique urn with spherical gadrooning beautifully complements a display of wild blackberries, creating a striking interplay of texture and form.

Antique garden urns also make exquisite vases for floral arrangements, seamlessly blending their outdoor heritage with indoor sophistication. In the image below, an elegant antique urn becomes the centerpiece of an airy room, with pastel pink roses cascading from its opening. This arrangement highlights the urn’s timeless design and its ability to elevate any interior with a touch of romantic grandeur. These versatile pieces showcase how garden urns can be reimagined for indoor use while retaining their historical charm.

The conical shape of a weathered cast iron urn, gains new life indoors with a dramatic fan of flowers that seems to embrace everyone who enters the room. Cast iron garden urns, popularized during the 19th century, were celebrated for their durability and intricate designs, making them a staple in French and English gardens. Today, their use has expanded beyond the garden, offering a unique way to bring classical style into contemporary interiors. Whether filled with blooms or left unadorned, Medici and garden urns are a testament to the enduring beauty of antique design.

8. Vintage butcher blocks & marble butcher tables

Antique butcher blocks, or billot de boucherie, are timeless staples of French country kitchens, cherished for their solid craftsmanship and rustic charm. Originally designed as functional work surfaces for butchers, these pieces have evolved into sought-after additions for home kitchens, blending practicality with history. Their sturdy wooden tops, worn smooth from decades of use, add warmth and authenticity to any space. In French homes, butcher blocks often take pride of place, becoming a focal point that exudes both character and utility.

Antique butcher tables, a close relative of the butcher block, feature marble tops and ornate cast iron bases with decorative scrollwork, reflecting 19th-century French design influences. These tables were highly valued for their durability and elegance, often used in both professional and domestic settings. Modern homeowners appreciate their versatility, particularly those with caster wheels that make them easy to move around. As functional as they are beautiful, these tables are ideal for use as kitchen islands or additional workspace, seamlessly combining form and function. 

9. Antique lanterns

Antique lanterns offer a timeless way to enhance your home’s ambiance, blending historic charm with modern functionality. These versatile pieces can be refitted for use as electric light sources, making them perfect for both interior and exterior spaces. Whether hung as a porch light, mounted on a lamppost, or used as a sconce, antique lanterns provide a warm, inviting glow that evokes romance and elegance. Their intricate designs, often crafted from wrought iron, brass, or glass, make them a standout feature in any setting, adding character and a touch of history to your décor.

For decorating ideas, consider using antique lanterns to create a focal point in an entryway or dining room. Outdoors, they make stunning accents for garden paths, patios, or porches, casting a soft light that enhances evening gatherings. Indoors, a lantern can be repurposed as a unique centerpiece on a kitchen island or dining table, filled with candles or fairy lights for a cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic, vintage, or French-inspired aesthetic, antique lanterns bring a timeless elegance that elevates any space. Explore the beauty and functionality of these historic lighting pieces to add enduring style to your home.

10. Chandeliers

Chandeliers are timeless lighting fixtures that bring elegance and grandeur to any space, making them an exceptional choice for modern interiors where their intricate details shine in unexpected contexts. Historically, chandeliers were designed for candlelight, with their iconic crystal pendants carefully arranged to amplify and refract the light, creating a mesmerizing glow. Today, many antique chandeliers have been rewired—a process known as "French wiring"—to accommodate modern electrification, preserving their classic beauty while enhancing functionality. For those seeking an authentic touch, specially designed lightbulbs resembling candles can be used to mimic the soft, flickering effect of the original candlelight.

Incorporating a chandelier into your home can elevate the ambiance of any room, from dining areas and entryways to bedrooms and bathrooms. A classic French crystal chandelier, with its cascading pendants and intricate metalwork, can serve as a statement piece in a contemporary setting, offering a striking contrast to minimalist or industrial décor. Alternatively, pairing a vintage chandelier with antique furnishings creates a cohesive, elegant aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling centerpiece or subtle charm, a chandelier brings a touch of timeless sophistication, bridging historical craftsmanship with modern design needs.

11. Collections of antique curios

Creating an authentic cabinet of curiosity begins with sourcing genuine antiques that add historical depth and character to your collection. Purchasing authentic pieces directly from France ensures that each item carries a rich heritage, whether it's a 19th-century specimen dome, an ostrich egg, or an antique Saint’s crown. These treasures, steeped in history, bring authenticity and charm to any collection, offering a window into the traditions and craftsmanship of the past.

Antique specimen domes and other display items sourced from France are ideal for showcasing unique finds in a way that honors their origins. Pair these with shells, antique scientific instruments, or rare decorative objects to craft a collection with true historical significance. By incorporating authentic French antiques, you elevate your cabinet of curiosity into a sophisticated display of genuine history and artistry, making it a standout feature in any home.

12. Antique French candlesticks

Antique candlesticks are timeless decorative pieces that combine functionality with rich history, offering a touch of elegance and intrigue to any home. Crafted in a variety of materials, including gilded wood, silver, brass, and iron, these candlesticks come in diverse sizes and styles, reflecting their origins in religious, royal, domestic, or even maritime settings. Their sculptural designs make them captivating whether in use or simply displayed. A single gilded candlestick, for example, can beautifully highlight other gold finishes in a room, adding a subtle sense of luxury and cohesion to your décor.

The warmth and charm of antique candlesticks extend beyond their practical use. Wooden and gilded designs pair beautifully with natural textures, like rustic beams or wooden furniture, enhancing the sense of warmth they bring to a space. Extra-large candlesticks make a bold statement when placed on the floor near a fireplace or positioned alongside other substantial furniture pieces, balancing the room's proportions. Smaller candlesticks, grouped on a dining table or mantel, create an intimate and inviting atmosphere perfect for entertaining or quiet evenings at home.

Antique candlesticks are also surprisingly versatile in modern interiors. Gilded, carved, and silver designs work seamlessly in eclectic settings, blending old-world charm with contemporary style. Whether paired with sleek, minimalist furniture or layered within an array of vintage and modern accents, antique candlesticks bring a sense of history and artistry that elevates any space. By incorporating authentic antique candlesticks into your home, you create a unique and enduring display that reflects both your personal taste and the beauty of timeless craftsmanship.

13. Wall appliques (wall sconces)

French wall sconces, or appliques murales, bring a touch of timeless elegance to any interior, combining functionality with artistic design. These three-dimensional wall features not only provide ambient lighting but also enhance the overall décor of a room. Positioned near a mirror, above a chair, or flanking a fireplace, antique and vintage French sconces create a sense of balance and sophistication. Gold wall sconces, such as those by Maison Charles from the 1960s, offer a striking blend of mid-century style and classic refinement, making them perfect for modern homes. When placed against a dark wall, the gold finish stands out dramatically, adding warmth and depth to the space.

Incorporating French sconces into your décor allows for endless creative possibilities. Use a pair of antique gilded appliques to frame a console table or add vintage crystal sconces for a touch of glamour in a dining room or bedroom. Sconces with intricate details, such as floral or neoclassical motifs, can serve as statement pieces, even when unlit. Whether you prefer ornate designs or sleek modern lines, French wall sconces offer a practical and stylish way to illuminate your home while adding authentic European charm.

14. Antique bust & sculpture

Figurative sculptures and antique busts bring an air of refinement and history to interiors, offering both decorative appeal and a tangible connection to the past. The tradition of carving portrait busts out of marble dates back to ancient Rome, where they were used to honor influential figures and ancestors. During the Renaissance, this tradition was revived, with marble busts symbolizing power, intellect, and cultural importance. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the technique of casting busts in plaster became popular, allowing more affordable reproductions of famous works and democratizing access to fine art.

Antique busts, whether in marble or plaster, are versatile pieces that can add formality and depth to any room. Placing a portrait bust at eye level on a mantelpiece allows it to be admired up close, creating a striking focal point while adding warmth and character to the space. Light-colored sculptures, such as white marble or plaster, pair beautifully with pastel tones and neutral interiors, enhancing their elegance. Designer Kay O'Tool demonstrates this effect with an imaginative display that combines a whimsical mix of objects of curiosity, pastel ironstone plates, and a large figurative sculpture, complete with a charming bird perched on the subject’s shoulder.

Antique sculptures also have a unique ability to inspire contemplation and storytelling. A masterfully crafted piece not only captures the likeness of its subject but also evokes emotions and narratives, transforming a room into a space of intrigue. Busts and figurative sculptures work wonderfully in formal settings, such as libraries, living rooms, or studies, where they can be appreciated during quiet moments. They are equally impactful in entryways and corridors, where their presence greets visitors or adds grandeur to transitional spaces.

Large antique sculptures, in particular, can become commanding features within a home, imbuing a room with drama and sophistication. Placing them in high-traffic areas on a pedestal like hallways or entryways allows them to be viewed from multiple angles, enhancing their dynamic appeal. Whether crafted from marble or plaster, antique busts and sculptures remain timeless additions to interior design, embodying both historical significance and artistic beauty.

Et voilà! Thank you for exploring how to use antiques and vintage finds to elevate a modern home. From timeless Louis chairs reimagined in bold upholstery to antique butcher blocks turned into kitchen islands, and from French sconces adding a golden glow to antique busts lending a touch of formality, these treasures blend history with contemporary charm. Each piece—whether a rustic confit pot, a dramatic sunburst mirror, or a sculptural Medici urn—offers an affordable way to infuse your space with character and timeless elegance. These fourteen décor ideas promise a lifetime of enjoyment, transforming any home into a stylish and soulful retreat.

Image credit: Cote Maison, Elle Decor, Veranda, Architectural Digest, Lonny Magazine, Apartment Therapy, Amelia Handegan, Giannetti Home, Ashley Goforth Interiors, Nate Burkus, Martha Stewart, Ken Fulk, Pinterest, Chez Pluie

Frequently asked questions

1) There are so many different kinds of French vintage and antique furniture. How can I learn about them?

One important way to learn more about French antique and vintage furniture is to visit places where you can find them in situ (or approximately), including art galleries (where you can find period rooms), museums, and chateaux both in person and online. Below is a list of just a few highlights that will excite and enlighten even the most devoted of Francophiles:

Les Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris (https://madparis.fr/)

Musée Jacquemart-André, Paris (https://www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com/)

Musée Carnavalet, Paris (https://www.carnavalet.paris.fr/)

Musée Nissim de Camondo, Paris. For more information view our blog, "Walk through a Parisian mansion - Musée Nissim de Camondo"

Visiting chateaux on open days will provide live inspiration as well. Dont miss Versailles! (https://en.chateauversailles.fr/ ).

The Victoria & Albert Museum, London (https://www.vam.ac.uk).

The Frick Collection, New York. Explore the collections online or in person. Watch informative videos from the series “Travels with a Curator” and be taken to such varied destinations as Valenciennes, Grasse, and Chantilly. The award-winning “Cocktails with a Curator” are a fabulous series that study specific works of art in depth, including work by French painters, sculptors, clock-makers, and cabinet makers. Listen to short talks on: Saint-Porchaire Ware; a marble bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon; Claude Monet’s Vethéuil in Winter; Fragonard’s Progress of Love paintings, or an 18th-century timepiece, “The Dance of Time,” by Clodion (Claude Michel) and Jean-Baptiste Lepaute, for example.

2) How can I make my house more interesting, more comfortable, or more formal, or more casual?

Of course enlisting an expert is recommended, but here are some commonsensical tips that interior designers might suggest: decorate so that no one thing hits your eye, it should just flow. Contrast provides visual interest, so mix together objects from different periods of time that are different colors and textures. Roomy seating, soft fabrics, indoor plants, and natural materials bring comfort. Paintings or mirrors with gilt frames and sculptures of figures bring formality to a room, while rustic décor make rooms more casual. In short, bring antique and vintage objects into your home and naturally will follow interest, comfort, formality and casualness.

3) I want to start collecting antiques, but I don’t know where to start? Can you offer some tips?

Start small and with what you love. For example, vintage shop signs, interesting glassware (preserving jars or demijohn bottles), ceramics, garden pots, sunburst mirrors, paintings and prints & drawings. Taking out memberships at art museums can open you to the world of collecting as well. Visit flea markets.

4) Will antique and vintage furniture work in a modern home and with modern décor?

Yes. Mixing objects and architecture from different periods creates interest and looks imaginative. Contrasting an ornate mirror with a rustic stone sculpture looks great and brings simplicity back. Not all antique and vintage décor is ornate, however, and these objects – for instance like a club chair – can work well next to a chic modern table, just as an ancient terracotta pot can look spectacular on the edge of a modern swimming pool.

Related Posts:

Kelly Harmon - 5 ways to emulate her classic style

10 ways to create your French country farmhouse

Six Beautiful Garden Room Ideas

The Biot Jar - An ancient French tradition