AATG: Q&A

Q & A with Ellie Christopher for JLB sustainer panel,
"Why are antiques relevant in todays interiors?”

Q: Why are you drawn to antiques?

A: “Soft color and patina can only be achieved with time. They tell a story. Motifs and symbols have specific meaning. They give “soul” to a room.”

Q: How do you use antiques in your daily life?

A: “I have rugs in every room! They not only ground your space but soften your room, especially with sound.”

Q: Are there styles, periods of antiques that you like more than others?

A: “I can appreciate the workmanship and craftsmanship of different styles and periods. I like a mix, makes for a more interesting personal collection.”

Q: For someone just starting to collect what are some things they should look for/ invest in?

A: “Buy the best quality you can afford, buy one nice piece per year whether its a rug, chest, sofa, art ETC. Good bones are the foundation of a collection. Buy what you love because antiques never go out of style. They can transition from space to space and move with you. I still own and use some of my very first purchases from my post college apartment.”

Q: How do you incorporate antiques into place settings and entertaining?

A: “Rugs and textiles can go table top! A vintage Suzanni makes for a perfect table cloth. I also love mixing my collection of heirloom china, crystal and silver often mixing and matching several sets together!

A room size Heriz rug outside my front door makes a grand entrance for guests!”

Q: Art is a very personal part of peoples homes. Do you prefer antique or modern art?

A: “Buy what speaks to you. I have a mix of antique landscapes, family portraits, folk art, Studio by the Tracks and modern pieces!’

Q: What are you collecting?

A: “Is this a trick question? EVERYTHING!
I love to collect Alabama artist pieces, I also love to set a table so I’m always drawn to china, silver and crystal.” #hoarderproblems

Q: How does your home reflect your style?

A: “I have a mix of family antiques, travel finds, art and rugs. I’m constantly rearranging. If I find something I cannot live without I will find a spot for it! All of my walls are painted Bone White, showcasing my collections.”

Q: Any tricks to ease the stress of entertaining and make it more enjoyable to host?

A: “Don’t be afraid to use your pretty things. Relax and focus on enjoying your company.”

Q: Color is in full force again in the design trade. Are there any colors coming back that you are happy to see? Not so happy to see?

A: “All shades of red are coming back. We are seeing lots of earth tones: orange, terra-cotta, soft brown and yellow.”


Q: Are there any style rugs that were trending and moving out of popularity? Are there rugs that are out of style and coming back?

A: “Moving away from cool neutrals to warmer neutrals with strong color. Traditional Persian rugs with strong reds are coming back. I am excited to see the mix of traditional rugs with modern furniture. Traditional never goes out of style.”