'Everyday Antiques' offers reasons to enjoy antiques

Kristi Zimmeth
| Special to Detroit News

Inside Everyday Antiques: Where Old Meets New By Katherine Sorrell (Ryland Peters & Small; $45) the author highlights many good reasons to live with antiques; from their “fascinating history, age rust and richness of character” to their sustainability, “a symbol of recycling and green thinking.” While many people think of antiques as expensive, he argues in his 191-page book, published last month, that they have possibilities and presence at all price points.

We recently caught up with the UK-based author to learn more about the new book.

What do you think antiques add to a home?

Antique and vintage furniture and accessories add unique character and a welcome sense of history. They are unlike anything made today; generally higher quality materials and time-honored skills are used, giving them tremendous durability and functionality. In terms of decorative effect, you cannot replicate the weathered patina, whether it is faded fabric, worn wood, or small cracks in the ceramic glaze. Some people may find these undesirable, but I feel like they really add something to the home. Add to this the fact that buying antiques is the ultimate in recycling – great for one’s green credentials – and it’s a win-win.

What is your favorite affordable antique?

I occasionally pick up the odd vintage tablecloth from a thrift store or antique center when the colors and embroidery are interesting. I like the flowery ones the most; My plan is to try sewing a top for myself one day, but in the meantime they are really beautiful.

What are you collecting?

I’m not collecting anything specifically at the moment. However, there was a point when I had so many gorgeous vintage down comforters with pale floral patterns and plump feather fillings. Unfortunately, over time they became increasingly worn and became more down than down (I thought I’d use them rather than keep them, and they were well-loved). If I could change them I would.

Where do you shop? What can’t you resist when you see it?

I love ceramics, new and old, and I’m on the lookout for simple, decorative pieces with pale, celadon glazes (I don’t care about the period) to add to my display on a deep windowsill on our stairs. I’m also a huge sucker for a tiny model animal. It may be made of felt, wood, ceramics or whatever; If it tells me something (can’t be too tweedy and handmade is usually the most attractive), I’ll buy it. I’m also a fan of those vintage wooden printer trays; Ideal for wall mounting and displaying small treasures. I actually have one above my bathroom filled with all sorts of bits and pieces collected over the years – it fills me with joy. Where do I shop? Wherever I am. Sometimes I shop online when I’m looking for a specific piece and I usually find it at thrift stores, antique stores, etc. I’m wandering around.

What did you find most unusual?

I bought a retro light fixture in the shape of the letter O made of pink, white and black acrylic sheet. At the time, I was thinking about my son, whose name starts with O, even though he spent some time in our living room. now a great talking point in the bedroom. It turns out that the light was once part of the sign for our local bingo hall and probably dates back to the 1960s. A little crazy, but very nice.

Do you have a piece of the Holy Grail that you keep searching for but can’t find?

I’d love to find a vintage crocheted blanket that’s very modest, but not too damaged, in beautifully coordinating colors (most of which are quite garish). It’s hard to find new, handmade crochet and knitting at an affordable price, so whenever I walk into a vintage store, I always rummage through the textile bins to see what I can find.

Contact Khristi Zimmeth at [email protected].

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