In a world where fast fashion and fleeting trends dominate, combining antique pieces with modern design is a creative way to achieve a unique and timeless aesthetic.
“Every antique piece has a soul, a story embedded in its fibers,” says Tonna Cooney.
“My mission is to bring these stories into the modern narrative of home design, creating a space that’s not just contemporary but also rich in history.”
An expert in antiques, vintage, and rejuvenation, Tonna, the founder of Tangerine Home, champions the integration of historic treasures into contemporary living spaces.
Her philosophy bridges the gap between past and present, turning old treasures into key elements of modern home design.
Tonna’s approach to design is akin to alchemy. She transforms the old and forgotten into something vibrant and relevant: “Antiques shouldn’t be confined to a shadowy corner or a dusty attic. They should be front and center, conversing with the modern elements of your home,” she explains.
This conversation between old and new is where Tonna excels. She meticulously selects each piece, considering its history, craftsmanship, and how it will complement contemporary décor: “It's not just about aesthetics. It's about respect and reverence for the craftsmanship of the past, fused with the functionality of the present,” Tonna notes.
"...imperfections tell a story."
While people often strive for perfection and refinement, she finds beauty in imperfection. Tonna is drawn towards items with a patina, which proudly show their age: “There is an undeniable charm in the weathered texture of an old wooden table or the faded elegance of a vintage rug. These imperfections tell a story,” she explains.
Her design philosophy counters today’s disposable culture, advocating for sustainability through repurposing: “By giving new life to these old treasures, we’re not just preserving history; we’re also making an environmentally conscious choice,” Tonna adds.
One of the challenges of incorporating antiques into modern design is ensuring a seamless blend of styles. Tonna approaches this by focusing on balance and harmony: “It’s like a dance between the old and the new,” she describes. “I might pair an ornate Victorian chair with a sleek, minimalist table. The contrast is deliberate and thoughtful, creating a dynamic and harmonious space.”
Tonna's design aesthetic is a unique blend of shabby chic and rebelliousness that aligns with her ethos. She loves the edginess of British punk and has a soft spot for disco balls, which she combines skillfully to create an authentic and exciting vibe.
The result is an eclectic and iconic collection of beautiful, avant-garde and bohemian items all rejuvenated to bring a new lease of life to any interior.
Tonna also emphasizes the importance of personalization in the pieces she rejuvenates. “Your home should be a reflection of your journey, your memories. Mixing antiques with modern elements allows for that personalization,” she states.
"...contrast is deliberate and thoughtful..."
Beyond aesthetics, Tonna believes in the emotional power of antiques and retro pieces: “When I look for something to add to our store, I’m not just picking out furniture. I believe my customers are adopting a fragment of history, an heirloom that carries emotional weight when they decide on an item. That’s important to them and important to me” she shares. This connection, she believes, is what transforms a house into a home.
Working with antiques is not without its challenges. Tonna points out the difficulties in restoration and adaptation: “Sometimes, you have to get creative to repurpose an item without losing its essence,” she says. This process often involves meticulous repair and careful adaptation to fit modern needs while preserving historical integrity.
Lisa Resnick has used Tonna’s design expertise to create some unique spaces within her home: “She has an amazing eye for choosing what you might think isn’t a good fit. And then you place it in the room and it completely transforms it.”
She adds: “I love how much attention she has put into the rejuvenation process. And Tonna comes up with some really unusual ways to repurpose objects.
“Her design advice and sourced antiques will impact any home bringing a new feel and life to a space with even the smallest addition.”
"...antiques are not relics of the past..."
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern living, Tonna’s perspective on antiques offers a refreshing and inspiring approach to creating spaces that are both contemporary and rich with history: “I believe antiques are not relics of the past but key elements in the tapestry of modern home design,” she says.
There is no doubt in her hands, the old becomes new, the forgotten becomes cherished, and the historical becomes personal, transforming our living spaces into dynamic, storied environments.
Check out @tangerine_home on Instagram or go to their website.
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