Blending Old & New: Davis Interiors’ Approach to Antiques

For interior designer Jennifer Davis, one of the most rewarding parts of the design process is bringing new life to beloved heirlooms

Photos courtesy of Davis Interiors  

Most of us know the value of sentimental objects—maybe it’s the first piece of furniture you bought on your own or a family vase that has been passed down for generations. These pieces often carry meaning far beyond aesthetics, telling stories that are deeply personal.

At Davis Interiors, the goal is to blend old and new in a way that honors the past while embracing the present. According to Founder and Principal Designer Jennifer Davis, “our homes should reflect who we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going.”

The key, she says, is balance. Whether it’s a vintage painting or an heirloom rug with time-worn colors, Davis thoughtfully layers meaningful items with modern elements like clean-lined furniture, updated lighting, and intentional negative space. “It’s about creating a dynamic mix,” she explains. “The past grounds the space, and the present gives it direction. Together, they create a home that feels layered and lived in.”

But of course, the styling of these pieces is always easier said than done. Davis’ trick is to use these pieces as anchors and build around them with unexpected textures, colors, and shapes, rather than force them to fit within a specific aesthetic. “It’s all about letting the history speak while telling a new story,” she says.

That also means resisting the urge to over-style. “Letting them breathe, especially in a minimal or neutral room, gives them modern weight,” she explains. “Clean walls, streamlined furniture, and restrained color palettes help them feel like art instead of clutter. Less is often more when trying to give an antique a current voice.”

If you’re still unsure where to begin with that old piece of furniture, there are numerous ways to give it new life. Consider reupholstering it in a fresh fabric, refinishing it to enhance its character, or swap in updated hardware. You might also rethink its function. A worn farm table, for instance, could become a kitchen island, or a vintage armoire could transform into a bar or linen cabinet. Davis says, “I love helping clients see these pieces through fresh eyes.”



 



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