Fabulous Chairs 'at auction'

I've been inspired by chairs that are pieces of art! They might be functional too, but they don't really need to be. They just look great as sculpture. What a fun way to incorporate unique style in to your home, and perhaps a bit of whimsy!

 From Pinterest - Designer: Kelly Wearstler

The shell chair is the height of whimsy. I love these, and am almost certain they're more decoration than seating. But who cares - they're fun!

 From Pinterest - Megan Winters Design

These chairs are more practical - you can sit in them! They bring wonderful decoration to the room with their curved backs, and gold on black chic decoration. 

From this blog - Thomas Jayne Studio

And then there's the wonderful hall chair - always meant to be more decorative than functional seating.

You can find these wonderful 'grotto' chairs at auction. This pair sold at a Christies auction in London. These are Venetian painted and parcel gilt chairs, circa 1900. They sold for $4,900 off an auction estimate of $800 - $1,200. Clearly desirable!

Hall chairs with a shell design are equally decorative. This pair of early Victorian mahogany hall chairs sold at a Chirsties auction for $935, off an auction estimate of $1,500 - $2,000. 

This pair of mahogany hall chairs has an even more detailed carved shell design. These are coming up January 8th at the Christies South Kensington (London) location (Lot 165). They have an auction estimate of $3,200 - $4,900. They are very smart looking!

I think these Victorian papier mache chairs are very decorative. I love the shape of the one on the left, and the gold on black decoration of both of them. These were sold at a Stair Galleries auction in Hudson, NY for $325, ff an auction estimate of $250 - $350.

Stair Galleries also sold this pair of Regency carved mahogany hall chairs for $1,300, off an auction estimate of $800 - $1,200. Hall chairs are often available at auctions. You just need to do some research, and decide what you want to pay. The more decorative the carving, the more you may need to pay. 

I thought I include something modern, and fun. These are 20th century lucite chairs on casters. They have a nice curved shape, and would be wonderful in a small room where you want them to almost fade away. These sold at a Stair auction for $350 off an auction estimate of $300 - $600.






We mostly think of chairs as something to sit in, but look around your rooms, and you might find a spot to include a chair that's more sculpture than seating. They can serve as a table substitute, or just something fun to look at!

Inspired by Art Deco 'at auction'

For me, Art Deco conjures up the old 1930's Hollywood movies, with men in black tie, and women in sexy silk gowns. The decor is sophisticated and sleek.

From Pinterest

Here the lines are graphic, as is the color palate. In the top photo, the chairs are stately, and the wall lights add drama. The bar cart makes you want to order a martini, and light up a cigarette (neither of which I do!).

Elle Decor - Designer: Kelly Wearstler

This home in Mercer Island, Washington exudes Art Deco style. It was designed by Kelly Wearstler for Lara and Jeff Sanderson. Very chic and stylish!

At auctions you can find a wide variety of Art Deco pieces ranging from an investment to something can can give the vibe without the price tag. 

Bonhams has a 20th Century Decorative Arts auction coming up December 11th in New York. The offerings cover early to late 20th Century with some tempting Art Deco items. I love this side table made of chromed metal (circa 1930), and it's illuminated! How cool would that be! This is Lot 2204 and it measures 24 inches wide by 14 inches deep. It would make a great side table or coffee table. It has an auction estimate of $2,500 - $3,500.

A great way to add the Art Deco vibe is with art. This French lacquered panel with cranes would do the trick. It measures 59 inches tall by 37 inches wide, and would make a statement. This is Lot 2192, circa 1925, with an auction estimate of $1,500 - $2,500. 

The Art Deco period produced fabulous lighting. I was taken with this table lamp which would certainly catch anyone's eye when they come in to the room day or night. This is designed by Robj, circa 1930, and is made of wrought iron and glass. It measure 20 inches tall, and has an auction estimate of $700 - $900. It's Lot 2187. 

One of the Art Deco elements in furniture deign that I have always loved is the use of parchment to bring contrast to a dark wood. This fabulous cabinet falls in to the investment category with an auction estimate of $15,000 - $20,000 (Lot 2169). It was designed by Jean Pascaud and it is mahogany with parchment. It also had a medallion designed by Jean de Barre. It's 83 inches wide and 22 inches deep. It certainly adds drama!

Kamelot Auctionsin Philadelphia often has Art Deco items. At a recent salethere were a number of bargains to be had! I love this classic Art Deco club chairs. These are circa 1930, and sold for $750 off an auction estimate of $700 - $900. The shape of the arms is so handsome!

This macassar wood dining table, circa 1930, has such a wonderful curved base. It's 86 inches long. This sold at a Kamelot auction for $450 off an auction estimate of $400 - $600.

As I was searching results, I cam across this extendable dining table (to 84 inches) which has a classic Art Deco tulip shaped base. It's made of walnut and is circa 1930. This sold at Kamelot for $50 off an auction estimate of $200 - $400. Even if it needs a little tender loving care, it's worth it!



As always, my style is to mix styles. I wouldn't go with a total Art Deco look, but would love to add some pieces like a lighting fixture or a table. They are so modern, and add drama!

Decorating with doors!

We just built a house, and I have to say that I didn't think about the doors that much. We have pretty standard doors. I have been so inspired by some photos of creative ways to use old doors to add character, or just serve as great decoration.

All from Pinterest

These photos are great examples of how to incorporate a vintage door. The top photo is wonderful. Placing old doors with patina and character on the wall serve as big art pieces. In the other two photos stripped down old doors have been incorporated as closet doors, and serve as utilitarian decoration as well.

Architectural salvage companies are one source, and auctions are, of course, another. Keep an open mind, and consider doors to cupboards as well, as long as you can buy the cupboard for a cheap enough price to justify dismantling it.

For some examples at auctions I went to my two favorite auction houses for architectural items - Copake Auction in Copake, NY, and Kamelot Auctions in Philadelphia. To the left, Copake a grouping of doors of various sizes. I love the tall and wide one on the right. Would be great wall art. The lot sold for $165 off an auction estimate of $100 - $200.

This charming grain painted door is circa 1840, and has lots of character. This sold at a Copake auction for $95 off an estimate of $200 - $300. Wouldn't this make a much more interesting closet door than the standard? 

This set on 19th century wood doors with leaded glass panels is quite elegant. They are 107" tall, and would make a wonderful entry to a dining room or closet, or interesting decoration. These sold at Copake for $175 off an estimate of $150 - $250.

Kamelot Auctions has regular auction specializing in architectural salvage. I picked a recent one for examples, and had to limit myself to three! This pair of Victorian (circa 1880) arched top wood doors stand a stately 102".  These sold for $50 off an auction estimate of $100 - $300.

I love these Art Nouveau doors! These have such lovely lines and curves. These are described as entry doors and have beveled and etched glass. These sold for $400 off an auction estimate of $400 - $600. 

Now these are a splurge, but worth it. These are mid-century modern entry doors with a coppered surface, and a wonderful design carved in to the doors. These would be such a unique piece for an entry or as interior doors. Or even just mount them as wall decoration. These sold for $2,200 off an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500. 

 

Antique or vintage doors can bring great character to your decor. Use them as doors, or use them as art! They would be good fun to search for at auction! 

Rustic Cupboards 'at auction'

Love the look of rustic cupboards - practical and they add character. They are readily available at auctions at great prices, so find that perfect spot in your house to add storage with design!

All from Pinterest

I love all these examples for the range of rustic cupboards you might find. The primitive blue painted cupboard is left with chips in the paint, and then filled with wonderful collections. The middle photo has a more refined provencal style cupboard which fills a wall, and is fantastic storage. The bottom photo is a great example of a country antique sitting happily among more modern furniture. 

Copake Auction in Copake, NY has an auction coming up November 17th. This wonderful primitive two door cupboard is Lot 43, and measures 41 inches wide by 82 inches tall. The auction estimate on this is $100 - $200. Perfect! The wood has great patina and character. Think of this in a kitchen, bedroom, or even a drinks cabinet in the living room.

This primitive cupboard is also included in the Copake Auction (Lot 38). The open shelving is great for display, and the cabinets below for storage. I like the detail at the cornice! This measures 65 inches wide and 74 inches tall, and has an auction estimate of $150 - $200.

Corner cupboards can be wonderful space savers and fillers. Stair Galleries in Hudson, NY has this wonderful American red stained pine corner cupboard included in it's upcoming auction November 17th. This is Lot 444, and measures ^ feet 5 inches tall. The glazed paned doors are perfect for displaying collections, and the red paint will pop against any number of wall colors. This has an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500.

Kamelot Auctions in Philadelphia also has an auction November 17th (obviously a big auction weekend!). This American 19th century corner cupboard has such a warm wood color, and galzed paned doors. Pile the shelves high with plates, or display some rustic pitchers and bowls. This measures 76 inches tall and 44 inches wide. It is Lot 107 and has an auction estimate of $300 - $600.

House and Home Magazine - Designer: Sarah Richardson

The designer Sarah Richardson often finds great rustic pieces, and this cupboard in an entryway is no exception. She left the character of the chipping paint surface, and gives the new entry a lived in look. Love the red doors on the closets too! You can find your characterful cupboard at auction at a great price!

A Little Bohemian Style (Guest blog)

Hello, everyone! It's Mari here from Arcadian Home blog, a fabulous place for home decor inspirations. I love my job because I often have the opportunity to visit lovely blogs like Auction Decorating to share some of the great interior spaces I've discovered during my online travels.

Today's guest post is about adding a little Bohemian style to your rooms. This very personal look is a mix of all your favorite furniture, textiles and decorative objects, and the perfect excuse to head out to an auction in hopes of finding one more treasure. Whether you want to add just a little Bohemian style or go all out for an over-the-top riot of color, texture and pattern, we think you'll find something in these eight interesting and appealing spaces we've pulled together to inspire you!

The dining room of Swedish designer Marie Olsson Nylander's is a perfect example of a room filled with lovingly collected treasures. It's a wonderful mix of styles.

Many Bohemian spaces are all about color, but this black and white living room gets the look with quirky accessories. I love the lighted "O" and little pops of color in the framed print that leans casually against the wall.

Colorful hues and an eclectic mix of furnitures and home accessories create an inviting place to relax and enjoy summery breezes.

Any or all of the tables and chairs in this diverse collection could have come straight from the auction to create this Bohemian office. And so might the antique sewing machine, ornately framed painting or wall hanging.

Though subtle in color, this bedroom gets its Bohemian feel from pattern and texture. The mix of textiles on the bed is sumptuous and inviting. I love the purple and black Ikat pattern.

This brilliant mix of color, pattern and furniture styles has Bohemian style written all over it. The wrought iron floor lamp, Moroccan table or antique footstool might have been found at a local auction.

The oversized quirky wall art seems right at home with an aged leather bench and weathered wood table. This vignette again shows Marie Olsson Nylander's affinity for restrained Bohemian style in her home, also shown in the first photo above.

Aged walls and a lovely mix of patterns and eclectic accessories give this entryway a beautiful Bohemian feel. This is perhaps my favorite of the eight spaces we've seen today. With so many possibilities, might a little Bohemian style be right for you? Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

What do you think of these Bohemian spaces? Leave us comments below, and be sure to visit us for more bohemian home decor, wall art, and lighting inspiration!

Console tables anywhere!

I have several console tables throughout my home. There's one in the entryway, one in the dining area, one in our den, and another in our bedroom. They all have wonderful decorative things on them, forming tableauxs that I modify as the spirit moves me. The tables are all different styles ranging in age from early 18th century to modern.

 Veranda, Designer: Shannon Bowers

This is a nice example of placing a table behind the sofa, adding lighting and decoration as you enter the room.

 Via Pinterest

Wonderful rustic example with a simple decorative tableaux on top. I like the old suitcases beneath it as well.

Belgianpearls  blog via Pinterest

You can't go wrong piling a table high with obelisks and classical statuary pieces.

House & Home (Canada), Designer: Emma Reddington

This simple table makes a welcoming entryway. Sturdy metal base with turned legs, topped with a marble slab, make it sturdy and elegant. I like the shoes and boots lined up underneath. This is a lived in home!

This lovely Swedish Neoclassical console table is perfect for anywhere! It's small (26 inches wide), simple in design, but elegant. It's giltwood with a simple white marble top. This sold at a Stair Galleries in Hudson, NY for $500 off an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500.

I love this smart single legged Italian neoclassical table. The eagle with wings is so smart. It's a lovely small size for an entryway, a hall, or against the wall in your bedroom. With a simple mirror above, what a great place to get ready in the morning. This sold at a Stair Galleries auction for $1,000 off an auction estimate of $800 - $1,200. It's giltwood with a grey marble top.

Console tables come in lots of shapes and styles, and this Art Deco table makes a statement. It's 5 feet wide, and wonderfully designed. It's made of rosewood with a glass top. This sold at a Stair auction for $2,600 off an auction estimate of $800 - $1,200. This would be great in a dining room!

Kamelot Auctions in Philadelphia often has cool industrial pieces. This metal table with a stone top has a great design. This is Lot 445 in their upcoming auction November 17th. It's 60 inches wide and has an auction estimate of $300 - $600. This would be great in a dining room, or a big rustic kitchen.

In the same Kamelot auction they have this more formal English Regency style console. This is classic with it's paw feet, mirrored back, and marble top. Women used to check their hemlines in the mirrors as they arrived at the party! This is Lot 359, and has an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500. 

I love this 19th century English carved oak table. It's a perfect size to fit almost anywhere at 30 inches wide. The carving makes it so interesting. This sold at a Copkae Auction in Copake, NY for $536 off an auction estimate of $300 - $500.

Finally, you probably wouldn't guess what this sold for - $20! This was offered at a Copake Auction with an estimate of $30 - $40. It would be hard to get a well made piece of furniture for so little. The gold paint is not very interesting, so I would immediately repaint in a Swedish neoclassical light grey, and it would become a very chic addition to my home! 

Look around your home, and I'm sure you'll see a place where a console table would add design detail and flare. Let the spirit move you at auctions to pick a table that's interesting, and will set off your decorative scheme.