Owning History - The Antique Wardrobe

There is nothing quite like the charm of an antiquetoday's mass-produced furniture is unable to match
wardrobe. It whispers in the language of the past,the standards of craftsmanship that were employed
telling a long and interesting story. The past isto produce the handmade item. However, with the
portrayed in a patina that defines the beauty andadvancements in furniture manufacturing, the quality
individuality of the piece. This is not to say that aof mass-produced furniture is quite good.
new wardrobe is completely lacking in character andThe style choices and storage flexibility of new and
beauty. There are advantages to both new andantique wardrobes is equally extensive. Some of the
antique wardrobes. The choice of an antiquemore elaborate wardrobes of the Victorian era are
wardrobe versus a new one generally comes downreproduced today. The simple lines and styling of the
to personal preference. But there are certain factorsShaker style wardrobe is a popular option in today's
that can influence your decision.furniture market. The variety of wood colors, stains
The cost of antique wardrobes can be prohibitive.and finishes is just as broad in the antique wardrobe
The expense of any restorative work performed isas it is in the new. Design of the antique wardrobe is
added into the price. The history of the piece maymimicked in today's styles. Depending on the level of
have significance; therefore, you are essentiallyrestoration, differentiating between a new and an
buying a piece of history. An alternative to this wouldantique wardrobe can be difficult.
be to search flea markets for antique wardrobes andWith the rising popularity of vintage and antique
do the restoration work yourself. This allows you tofurniture, new wardrobes can be created to look like
create a wardrobe that is uniquely yours. However,a fine antique. With paint, stain and even some
this can be a very time-consuming task depending oncarefully administered marring, the new wardrobe can
the age, condition and size of the wardrobe.take on the characteristics of an antique. Conversely,
Purchasing an antique wardrobe is environmentallythere are many antique pieces that have been
responsible. You are buying an existing piece andcompletely restored to look brand new.
preserving our natural resources. There is a veryThe options for either a new or an antique wardrobe
large market currently for antique wardrobes. Theyare limitless. The factors of taste, cost, quality and
combine the functionality of today's furniture withavailability can certainly help the decision. Overall, the
the character and beauty of history, while not takingchoice between old and new is personal. An antique
anything from the environment.wardrobe captures the essence of the past. A new
The craftsmanship of an antique wardrobe maywardrobe can be transformed to mirror the charm
exceed that of today's manufactured versions. Aand appeal of an antique. Old or new, the wardrobe
centuries old wardrobe is a statement to the extrais a functional piece that will add character and
care and skill that went into the making of it. Much ofwarmth to your home.