A Designers Guide to Antiquing: Discovering Timeless Interiors at Ardingly Antiques Fair
Antiquing isn’t purely about the nostalgia of times forgotten; it is about layering history with confidence and intention, to introduce the character and charm that makes a house a home. As an Interior Designer, I often encourage my clients across Sussex, Kent and London to look beyond the mass-produced and predictable, and instead embrace aged pieces with patina and personality. Few places offer this opportunity quite like Ardingly Antiques Fair – one of the most respected antique fairs in the UK.
Whether you are looking to furnish a country home, a London townhouse, or refining a coastal Sussex interior, antiquing can create a home that feels quietly sophisticated and deeply personal (… at least when done well, that is!)
To help you with this, we’ve collated our own guide on how we approach antiquing from a designer’s perspective, and how you can make the best of a trip to Ardingly Antiques Fair.
Go With a Vision, Not a Shopping List
If you visit an antiques fair hoping to find a very specific piece, there’s a chance you’ll leave disappointed. Instead, consider proportion, material, size and condition, and visit with an open mind. This approach allows for discovery and avoids disappointment!
Learn to Read Patina
Patina is not damage, but decoration, and tells of the history of a piece. Look for honest wear to timber edges, softened gilding on mirrors, faded leather, or stone with surface variation. These elements add depth and character to a home, and prevent interiors from feeling overly new or sterile – particularly important for those clients of ours redecorating a new build or contemporary home.
Think Beyond Furniture
Some of the most impactful antique finds are on the smaller side, so it’s well worth getting stuck in and scanning every shelf stacked with books, and every table laden with china (I was particularly taken with the volumes of beautiful quality china on display during my recent visit to Ardingly in January). Other items to consider might be lamps, mirrors, ceramic vessels, artworks and decorative objects. These pieces can quietly elevate a space by easily layering them into existing interiors.
Mix Antiques with Modern
A common misconception is that antiques require traditional surroundings, but this is simply not the case. In actuality, they thrive in contrast, with antique pieces introducing an authenticity and quality of craftsmanship that is not often found in modern mass-produced items. At Piers Thurston Home, we’ll often introduce antiques to more contemporary properties to soften architectural minimalism and add warmth to neutral palettes. The key is restraint and balance.
Practical Tips for Buying at Ardingly Antiques Fair
Arrive early for the best selection, or late for increased negotiation
Be sure to measure doorways and key spaces beforehand, and come armed with a tape measure
Engage with the dealers. Don’t be afraid to ask about origin, age and restoration
Remember, Antiquing is a Long-Term Design Philosophy …
… So be sure to practice patience. The most beautiful homes are rarely completed quickly - antiquing encourages restraint and discernment, allowing interiors to evolve naturally over time. A reminder that good design values longevity, craftsmanship and individuality.