Vintage Furniture: What It Is, How to Recognize It & Where to Find It
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In a world of fast interiors and mass-produced items, vintage furniture brings soul, craftsmanship and timeless character into a space. But what exactly counts as vintage? And how do you know when a piece is the real deal? Let's answer the most asked questions about vintage furniture.
What Is Vintage Furniture?
Vintage furniture refers to pre-owned pieces that are typically between 20 and 80 years old, often representing the style, materials and design language of their era. Think mid-century teak sideboards from Denmark, Space Age Italian lighting from the 70s, or playful postmodern seating from the 80s. These are not just old items-they are design icons with a story.
When Is Furniture Considered Vintage?
Furniture is generally considered vintage once it is at least 20-30 years old. Anything younger is usually labelled second-hand, while pieces over 100 years old are considered antique. The vintage category covers a golden window where design is both historic and still highly usable in contemporary interiors.
How Do I Recognize Vintage Furniture?
Spotting true vintage requires a sharp eye. Here are a few tips from Studio Stella:
- Labels & Stamps: Many manufacturers-like Cassina, Vitra, or Fritz Hansen-mark their pieces underneath or on the frame.
- Materials & Craftsmanship: Solid woods, hand-blown glass, welded steel and real leather are common in authentic pieces.
- Signs of Age: A natural patina, slight fading or wear adds authenticity. Replicas often look too new.
- Design Details: Each decade has its own language-organic shapes in the 50s, bold colors in the 70s, geometric forms in the 80s.
Where to Buy Vintage Furniture?
If you're looking to invest in authentic design, choose your sources carefully:
- Curated Shops: Online platforms like Studio Stella hand-pick authentic pieces with verified provenance.
- Specialised Marketplaces: Whoppah, Pamono or 1stDibs offer wide selections, though prices vary.
- Local Vintage Stores & Markets: Great for hidden treasures-sometimes at a fraction of the price.
- Auctions: Both online and offline auctions can be an exciting way to acquire rare classics.
Why Choose Vintage Furniture?
Buying vintage is more than a style choice. It is sustainable, supports circular living, and adds depth to an interior. Each item carries history, making it not just furniture, but a story you bring into your home.
At Studio Stella, we believe design should last. That's why we curate original vintage furniture and lighting-pieces that stand the test of time, ready for a new chapter in your space.