The Easy & Affordable Way To Give Vintage Wood Furniture A Modern Update

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There's a reason vintage wood furniture continues to be a staple in modern design. From unique craftsman dressers to the timeless elegance of a traditional hutch, they just don't make 'em like they used to before! Lucky for us, there are still plenty of vintage pieces just waiting to be claimed. However, a lot of them are diamonds in the rough. You need a keen eye to see the potential in a vintage piece that isn't in the greatest conditions. There are an array of methods to restore antiques — some more involved than others. But before you break out the varnish stripper and sanding tools, consider simply switching out the furniture hardware.

Let's back up for one moment. Before you can even think about switching out hardware, it's important to decide if that new-to-you vintage piece you're looking at will have a place in your interior design. Consider the 80/20 rule. This ratio helps determine how much vintage furniture suits your space best. As a rule of thumb, it's best to stick with 80% modern furniture and 20% vintage furniture. It's also vital to find high-quality pieces that will last. Look for sought-after vintage brands in thrift shops, estate sales, or online resources like Facebook Marketplace. Ethan Allen, Drexel Heritage, and Lane Furniture are just a few options to keep your eyes peeled for. In some cases, you can score some great deals on high-quality pieces that just need a little sprucing up. 

It may seem like a small change but switching out hardware can actually make a huge difference. It's a quick, affordable means to modernize a tired antique piece. Not to mention it completely customizes otherwise ordinary vintage furniture. The melding of new and old offers an opportunity to express your own unique style while simultaneously celebrating the past of your piece. Unlike sanding or painting, switching out the hardware helps maintains the piece's historic integrity while offering a subtle makeover. Try switching out drawer handles, cabinet hardware, or hutch door knobs to breathe new life into an old relic.

Looking for inspiration? Resources such as Instagram, Pinterest, and interior design magazines offer endless ideas to sift through. As a general guideline, match your hardware to the metal, materials, and colors you already have or wish to add more of in your interior design. But that's only a starting point. Don't be afraid to stray from typical conventions. These small components can infuse your space with a lot of personality. For instance, you can opt for glimmering mother-of-pearl knobs for an ethereal touch. Or you can try out brass crocodile cabinet pulls, because why not? Whatever direction you choose to go with your hardware, you'll be amazed at what a difference swapping out this small part will make for your vintage furniture.