No dining room is complete without a focal piece that exudes refinement. Collectors are getting excited again and some of the items are those “old brown furniture”. Personally, I like the idea of not having the same IKEA furniture that everyone else does. Showing a little individuality in your home decor is so unusual these days.
Before you purchase a china cabinet there are a few things you should know.
Look for Fun Features
Antique china cabinets do not have to be clunky space-wasters. Look for fun features that provide the storage and functionality you want with the style you crave.
Common features may include:
- Adjustable & Glass shelves
- Mirrored back or shelving
- Interior lighting
- Locks
- Hinged doors
Consider the state of your own home. Do you have small children? If so, locks may be a feature you’d like to look for. Looking forward to changing your antique china cabinet with the seasons? Adjustable shelves can be easily moved to accommodate decorations, dishes, or any other item you’d like to see on display!
Double-Check You Have Space
Before you pour your coffee into a thermos, slip your shoes on, and head out of the door, measure the area you envision an antique china cabinet.
Spatial awareness is hard to guesstimate, I am terrible at it. Don’t come home with a gorgeous antique that doesn’t fit the space. Take the time to measure the best place for a china cabinet and bring those measurements (and measuring tape!) with you.
Measure the height, width, and length of the space and determine the best size range. When you’re measuring include dining room tables, seating areas, walkways, and anything that may hinder a large antique.
Prepare for Wear and Tear on Antique China Cabinets
Being an antique, items are old and may come with its own frailty. You may be charmed by its rustic value but if you think you will spend more out of pocket to get the china cabinet looking its best than it costs to purchase in the first place, it’s worth taking your time to find a china cabinet that requires less maintenance. Consider too, if you’re in a dry climate like Colorado the wood may crack and show wear faster. This may require a level of maintenance.
Before you sway near antique wood with oil or duster, check out this article to determine the best cleaning products for your antique.
“The thing to remember,” says expert appraiser Alicia Weaver, “is the more unique the piece, the better the condition the more value you can expect in your piece. Often these pieces will appreciate in value, unlike many other pieces of furniture. Ultimately, you’re the one who has to look at it everyday so make sure you love it.”
That being said, small nicks and dings can be easily tidied up with some care, patience, and elbow grease.
Find Your Next Focal Piece
Prestige Estate Services has been helping homeowners in Denver sift through and value their old belongings and find homes for their beautiful antiques! Our dedicated team of compassionate people helps others through what can often be an emotional process.
We are devoted to helping others eliminate clutter while also giving people the opportunity to grab some beautiful antiques for themselves. Our estate sales occur regularly and are great places to find inspiration.
Find your next focal piece at one of our upcoming estate sales! If you just need some help determining the value and want to insure it, give us a call for an appraisal.