timeless treasures become contemporary showpieces in latest home design trend
An inspiring wave of creativity is making a comeback through the world of interior design, as homeowners and decorators alike rediscover the beauty and character of antiques.
Aspal Antiques – based at Stonham Barns Park at Stonham Aspal – renowned for its diverse and carefully curated collection, has reported a significant rise in customers choosing antique pieces as striking embellishments for contemporary homes.
The trend, described by design experts as ‘The Art of Mixing,’ sees rare and beautiful antiques -from statement mirrors and sculptural lighting to heirloom furniture and ornamental works of art – reimagined as focal points in minimalist and modern settings. Each piece not only tells a story but also brings a sense of history and individuality to even the most streamlined interiors.
‘In recent months, we have noticed a remarkable shift in the way our clients are approaching home styling, says Henri Lewis of Aspal Antiques. ‘Rather than following fleeting trends, people are looking for ways to reflect their unique personalities and add character to their living spaces. Selecting a single antique – be it a Regency console table, a gilded wall sconce, or a set of vintage botanical prints – can transform a room, making it feel both warm and welcoming.’
‘This movement towards incorporating vintage and antique elements is driven by a growing desire for sustainability, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Unlike mass-produced décor, each antique at Aspal Antiques is a one-of-a-kind piece, chosen for its design merit, provenance, and potential to complement today’s interiors.’
‘Clients are blending period finds with modern artworks, textiles, and colour schemes, resulting in homes that are eclectic yet harmonious.’
The shop’s recent collaborations with other local antiques traders have attracted a new generation of collectors, while long-standing enthusiasts continue to find inspiration among newly sourced treasures. With an ever-changing inventory that includes everything from Art Deco vases to mid-century modern seating, Aspal Antiques is offering something for every taste and every room.
Continues partner Alan Knight, ‘We love helping our customers find that perfect piece.’
‘Seeing how an eighteenth-century chest of drawers or a Victorian marble bust can enliven a modern space is endlessly rewarding. Antiques are not just for traditional homes – they are for anyone who values beauty, history, and a touch of the unexpected.’
‘It’s like a touch of theatre for your home.’
Aspal Antiques – alongside its sister businesses Aspal Emporium and Aspal Reclaim – is hosting an Antiques Fair at Stonham Barns Park next year. It will be its fifth antiques fair on 14 March to showcase antiques and collectables for the home and garden including retro, vintage and other historical items.
The Aspal Antiques Fair will feature established and start up traders from the antiques sector in the region. It’s free entry to the public and attracts hundreds of buyers from across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex.
The business has played host to Drew Pritchard from the TV Series Salvage Hunters and presenters from The Antiques Road Trip.
Other retailers at Stonham Barns Park include Stonham Garden and Home Centre, Carters of Suffolk, Hemingstone Frames, Hot Tub Village, Tiger Sheds, Stonham Village Stores, Suffolk Bridal Outlet, The Beauty Barn, The Vintage Cellar, The Book Cellar and The Little Dance Barn. Among the most recent retail additions to the village are GG Trading Cards, Sakura Studio Gallery, The Serpent and Rose Tattoo Studio and Glen’s Collectables.
For further info on Aspal Antiques call 01449 797175 or visit www.aspalantiques.co.uk or go to Aspal Antiques on Facebook/Instagram.
