Dos and Don’ts of Buying Antique Furniture in Toronto

Antique and vintage furniture is not only beautiful, but it also adds character and depth to any space. As they say, old is gold, and this saying holds true for antique pieces. These items have stood the test of time and are often well-crafted with intricate details that you just can’t find in modern-day furniture. Not to mention, investing in antique furniture is a sustainable option as it helps reduce waste and promotes recycling.

However, the world of antique and vintage furniture is a vast and diverse one. There are tons of antique stores in Toronto to explore. For those who are just starting out in this exciting market, it can be overwhelming to know which pieces to buy and which ones to avoid. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and guidance, you can navigate through this world of furniture with ease. With that in mind, the following guide provides some useful tips for buying antique and vintage furniture.

Tips to Buy Antique Furniture the Right Way

If you don’t have any prior experience in buying antique furniture, it’s essential to do some research before making a purchase. Here are some tips that can help you buy the perfect piece of antique furniture for your home or collection:

Do: Buy Pieces in Good, Usable Condition

While some may argue that the imperfections in antique furniture add to its charm, it’s crucial to ensure that the piece is still functional and usable. Look for any major structural damage or missing parts before making a purchase. Minor wear and tear can be easily fixed, but significant damages can be costly to repair.

Don’t: Buy Pieces That Are Unusable

As much as you may be drawn to a particular piece of furniture, it’s essential to resist the temptation if it’s severely damaged. Not only will it require extensive repairs that can be expensive, but it may also lose its original value and authenticity.

Do: Buy Pieces That Fit Your Space

Before you go hunting for antique furniture, it’s essential to measure the space where you plan on placing the piece. This will help narrow down your options and ensure that the piece you choose fits perfectly in your home without looking out of place.

Don’t: Buy Pieces That Will Languish in Your Garage

It can be tempting to purchase a large, beautiful antique piece without having a specific spot for it in your home. However, this often leads to the furniture being stored and forgotten in a garage or storage unit. Only buy pieces that you know will have a designated spot in your home.

Do: Buy Upholstery That May Not Be Your Style

While upholstery may seem like a minor detail, it can significantly impact the overall look of an antique piece. If you come across a piece with outdated or unappealing fabric, don’t let that deter you from buying it. Reupholstering is an easy and affordable way to update the look of a piece while still maintaining its antique charm.

Don’t: Buy Upholstery That Smells, is Stained, or Potentially Infested

On the other hand, it’s vital to thoroughly inspect the upholstery of an antique piece before buying. Avoid pieces with strong odours, stains, or signs of potential infestations, as these can be difficult and costly to get rid of. Even if you reupholster, the underlying issues may still remain and affect the value of the furniture.

Do: Buy Easy-to-Fix Pieces

Some antique pieces may need a little TLC to bring them back to their former glory. However, if the necessary repairs are minor and easily fixable, don’t be afraid to buy them. Often, these pieces come at a lower price point and can be a great option for those on a budget or looking to save money.

Don’t: Buy Pieces That Are Beyond Your Ability to Repair

While learning to restore antique furniture can be a fun and rewarding hobby, it’s essential to know your limitations. If a piece requires extensive repairs or specialized skills that you don’t have, it may be best to leave it for someone else who is more experienced. Doing so ensures that the piece is properly restored and maintains its value.

Do: Buy Timeless Pieces You Love

Ultimately, the most important thing when buying antique furniture is to choose pieces that you genuinely love and appreciate. Don’t just buy a piece because it’s popular or trendy; instead, go with your gut and select pieces that speak to your personal style and taste. This way, you’ll have a collection of timeless and unique pieces that will bring joy for years to come.

Don’t: Buy It Just Because It’s Cheap

While it’s always great to find a good deal, don’t let the price be the only factor in your decision to buy an antique piece. Some sellers may try to sell damaged or fake pieces at low prices, so always do your research and thoroughly inspect the item before making a purchase.

Do: Jump at the Chance to Buy One-of-a-Kind Finds

If you come across a rare or unique piece of antique furniture that you know you won’t find anywhere else, don’t hesitate to buy it. These one-of-a-kind pieces not only add character and depth to your space but are also valuable additions to any collection.

Don’t: Hesitate and Miss a Great Purchase

Just as it’s essential to jump at the chance to buy a one-of-a-kind piece, it’s also crucial not to hesitate too long when making a decision. Great antique pieces can sell quickly, so if you find something that checks all your boxes, don’t wait too long, or someone else may grab it.

Discover a Variety of Timeless Antique Furniture at Carrocel

With over 30 years of experience, Carrocel – Furniture store in Toronto offers a wide selection of timeless and high-quality antique pieces in various styles, including traditional, mid-century modern, and modern. Our antique store in Toronto carefully curates each piece to ensure authenticity and quality, making us a trusted source for all your antique furniture needs. Contact us online at Carrocel Interiors or call us at 416-999-2525 today.

Marble Top Louis XVI Style Commode Chest

Pair of French Antique Louis XVI Antique Bergere Arm Chairs

Pair of English Traditional Style Mahogany Nightstand Chests

 

Also Read: Eight Tips for Buying Antique Furniture

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