Collecting: Nature vs. Nurture

I welcome fall with open arms and savor the days of cool breezes and bluebird skies. It's this time of year that I crave an early morning trip to my favorite flea market. I grew up wandering the aisles of the local market so I still question whether it is something I was taught {nurture} or something that is just apart of me {nature}. I was never really a history buff in school and it would be safe to say that I avoid all current event and history conversations over an evening of cocktails but strangely enough I adore learning about curious old things and the history of antiques I favor. You know what they say "Buy what you like and you'll find a place for it in your home." That's definitely true for me but sometimes I like a simple table or a quirky old thing because I learn about its history and I find it even more charming.

I never know what my next acquisition will be and I am amazed by the disciple of one of my best friends who makes a list of what she is looking for and does not stray. She comes prepared with dimensions and measurements and stays the course. I am a wanderer and typically bring home a wide assortment of finds. I also have my list. Its not written down and usually somewhat unattainable.

So, just for you, I am writing down my list. Here are the things I am coveting now:

Bohemian Textiles from Around the World

Interiors with a global perspective are influencing my design choices as of late. I love the soft palette and time-worn texture of an old Kantha or Suzani. The vegetable dies bring an aesthetic that you just can't get any other way. I like antique textiles artfully laid down the center of a sofa or casually draped over a chair or the foot of the bed. They bring relief to a room with perfect proportions and symmetry and say "welcome."

Antique Marble Sink and Hardware

I know you recognize this amazing bathroom. Its from the home of the uber-talented Brooke Giannetti author of one of my most favorite blogs Velvet & Linen. The bath below is her inspiration from John Saladino. This is where the unattainable comes into play like where I am going to come across one of these bad-boys without getting on an airplane and crossing an ocean? In my opinion, the best part of both of these vanity designs is the faucet. It's an antique fountain spout. Any way...I love to dream about my next project and I love a good hunt so this will keep me challenged for a good number of years.

 Antique and Vintage Gilt Frames

I love the patina of an antique gilt finish where the gesso sometimes peeks through. They are often hand carved with gold and silver applied leaf. I appreciate their fineness because they don't make frames this way anymore. They are works of art in their own right.

These frames are from the latest antiques shipment from Circa Interiors.

18th Century Glass

Lately, I am quiet taken with vintage and antique glass in warm tones like amethyst and amber. I like the hand blown sculptural shapes, and warm colors. Both visually and functionally they are sturdy enough to hold a fall branch. The photo above is from the Sag Harbour bedroom of Swedish antiques dealer Jill Deinst featured in Martha Stewart Living.

Here is another picture from Deinst's home that I have shown you before. The table and the mantle are filled with her old glassware collection something that I immediately am drawn to because I have been collecting old glass for years. I am always looking for large old goblets or spooners as they make nice gifts when filled with a candle or fresh flowers.

An Old Plaster or Stone Bust

I have been looking for an old plaster or stone bust for a few years. I think they bring a lot to a layered tablescape, mantle arrangement or bookcase. Interior designer, Dana Wolter, used her bust brilliantly in her own home. You would definitely enjoy reading her blog here. I imagine most of us would have struggled to find just the right way to accessorize this small, somewhat awkward corner. I like old things used in a clean modern way and Dana's example above is a case study in the look I desire.

Here's another beautiful crusty old bust from Atelier de Campagne my latest world wide web diversion. They are expecting their latest shipment from Europe momentarily.

Antique & Vintage Epicurus

I enjoy entertaining and like to set an artsy table combining beautiful old finds from my flea market excursions so I am always on the lookout for french linens and ticking, vintage french flatware, unique colored glassware, weathered wood cutting boards, creamware, hotel silver, etched glassware, silver serving pieces and unique containers for flowers. The picture above is from Lonny Magazine promoting Gwyneth Paltrow's cookbook, My Father's Daughter.

Natural, Textural or Nature Inspired

Objects of Desire

This is a category that is somewhat undefinable that I can be assured some purchase from every excursion will qualify. I am drawn to natural textures and inspired by the natural world. I took these pictures of bee skeps at the High Point Furniture Market last Spring from a global antiques importer called Blue Ocean Traders. They were all sold when I arrived on opening day and were too busy helping customers to chat with me about their origin. I just adore them!

Is it Nature or Nurture?

So my friends, what are you in search of as of late?

Image Sources: {1,2} Jayson Home & Garden {3} West Elm {4} unknown {5} Brooke Giannetti/Velvet & Linen {6} John Saladino {7} Circa Interiors {8}unknown {9} Circa Interiors {10} unknown {11} my dining room mantle {12-13} Martha Stewart Living {14} Dana Wolter Interiors {15} Atelier de Campagne {16} Lonny Magazine {17, 18} my photos from Blue Ocean Traders

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