Antiques, in and out of popularity over the centuries, are coveted once again. Here’s why

Antiques are once again enjoying a golden age in the world of design, but as with most things, they too have experienced a rise and fall in popularity throughout history. From periods of widespread admiration to times when they were deemed out of style, the ebb and flow of antique appeal tells a fascinating story — one that continues to influence the way we design interiors today.

The earliest period of antique collecting dates to the Renaissance, a time when the elite saw ancient artifacts and objects as symbols of refinement and intellectualism. Wealthy individuals and aristocrats sought out rare pieces to enhance their homes, often commissioning cabinets and displays specifically designed to house their collections. These objects were valued for their rarity, craftsmanship and historical significance, making them treasures of cultural heritage.

During the Victorian epoch, enthusiasm for antiques continued to grow, particularly in Europe and America as the middle class began to develop a taste for ornate furniture, fine porcelain and art. This timeframe also saw the rise of antique shops, museums and public collections. Additionally, the second industrial revolution, which led to mass production, made older items even more desirable for their hand-crafted quality and durability.

However, after World War I, there was a notable shift in the aesthetic tastes of society. The Art Deco movement, with its sleek, modern lines and new materials like chrome and glass, began to dominate interior design. The emphasis was placed on innovation, and antique pieces became viewed as outdated, even stodgy. This preference intensified through the mid-20th century, with designers and manufacturers moving away from traditional styles in favor of more modern, minimalist approaches.

By the 1960s and 1970s, there was a resurgence of interest in antiques, driven in part by the counterculture movement. People began rejecting the consumer-driven products of the post-war era in favor of items with a story and sense of permanence. The trend toward more eclectic, individualistic home decor also helped the cause. Vintage and antique furniture pieces were incorporated into modern designs as a way to counterbalance the sleek lines of newer styles and to introduce warmth, texture and personality into spaces.

In the 1980s, Americans and Europeans were drawn to the lavish designs of the Georgian, Regency and Victorian periods, while French and English antiques were in especially high demand. This decade witnessed an intense fascination with vintage and antique styles, driven by both a cultural nostalgia and an economic boom that allowed people to invest in high-quality pieces.

The 1990s continued this wave, but there was a newer focus on more rustic, farmhouse-style antiques, particularly from the 18th and 19th centuries. Shaker furniture, distressed woods and simple, functional pieces became central to the design ethos of the time. Antiques became synonymous with both elegance and comfort, enticing a broad demographic, from wealthy collectors to young professionals furnishing their first homes.

Several factors contributed to the noticeable decline in antique popularity during the early 2000s including the rise of minimalism and modernism, specifically the functional designs of Scandinavian furniture; the digital revolution, globalization, and rapid growth of online shopping; a changing economic landscape derived from the 2008 financial crisis which led people to turn to more affordable and readily available options; and a new generation that saw antiques as less relevant.

Fast forward to today, and the interest in antiques is reaching another pinnacle, a rebirth that offers a valuable opportunity. In a world focused on fast fashion and disposable goods, antiques represent a tangible link to a more thoughtful, sustainable and timeless way of living. The demand for unique, high-quality pieces encourages the creation of curated, eclectic and personalized spaces. As we look to the future, antiques are poised to continue playing a significant role in the industry, blending history with modernity to create spaces that tell meaningful stories — a concept well exemplified by brands like Theodore Alexander that provides several antique-inspired collections.

Antiques are no longer merely relics of the past — they are integral tools in crafting spaces founded on lasting value, style and deep emotional connections. Embracing this philosophy can be instrumental in staying ahead of the curve, exceeding client expectations, and maximizing sales potential in an evolving market.

Julia Reinert, founder of The Lifestyle Historian, blends storytelling, branding, marketing and event planning with a unique historical perspective. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Third World, Non-Western History, Reinert’s career spans journalism, marketing and brand management. After 20 years and several industries, she recently transitioned to make The Lifestyle Historian her full-time focus, where she combines her love for research, antiques and global travel to create compelling narratives and educational experiences.