Buy vintage

Interior designers are among the first people to suggest buying vintage items to add character to your home.

Vintage and antique items add uniqueness to an interior, although it is best to carefully select what you acquire. Usually anything 40 years or older is classed as vintage, while items 100 years or older are antiques. That means anything pre-1983 would be deemed vintage, and pre-1923 is antique.

Here are three things you should consider buying vintage, rather than new:
OIL PAINTINGS – Look for original vintage artwork, even if it isn’t in the best condition.
Those scratches add character, and remember you can always have it restored to its former glory.
RUGS – Antique rugs have major resale value, so long as they are worn evenly, rather than patchy. Usually they’re handwoven and vegetable-dyed, making them more durable and long lasting.
LIGHT FIXTURES – Vintage or antique light fixtures add character and uniqueness to any room. Most can be safely rewired by an electrician to
meet modern standards if in good shape.
Look out for wall-mounted and pendant/chandelier-style fixtures, in addition to timeless table and floor lamps.