While many people start collecting antiques as investments, other are interested in using the pieces they collect to create a particular home décor. Some people decorate by collecting furnishings from a specific period, while other use a more eclectic style. Let's look at some decorating ideas. For the sake of simplicity, we'll use the terminology employed by interior designers when describing decorating styles. The primitive style of decorating would include items such as antique rag dolls and old hay racks. Items of this sort are supposed to look a bit worn and funky. This would be a perfect style of décor for a country home. In contrast, the Victorian style is characterized by rich brocades and velvets. These might be seen in furniture, walls or window dressings. The Victorians had a preference for mauves, burgundies, blues and greens. They also seemed to have an uncanny passion for lace, porcelain dolls and wicker chairs. If you add some Victorian hat boxes along with some dried flowers, you may feel as if you are living inside of a DH Lawrence novel. If you are a fan of the Greek myths, and your antiques collection contains many ancient artifacts, you wight want to go with a classical style of décor. You can use pillars and columns in both interior and furniture designs. Mahogany wood, brass, marble and tapestries are nice accents for this style. Of course, it is not necessary to stick to one specific period. You can mix periods, even combining your antiques with modern pieces. The sky's the limit! Use your creativity! | 
