Nothing beats finding a vintage piece of furniture or fashion that is one of a kind and has something special about it. It’s like finding buried treasure, and you’ve struck gold when it’s yours to take home.
What I love about vintage furniture is that it so often carries a sense of history with it. I can’t get enough of pieces that are a bit weird and wonderful, I love to think about the story behind it.
I’m particularly drawn to mid-century design, and many of the vintage furniture and lighting pieces I source come from this era. Design during this period was driven by innovation and thoughtful craftsmanship, with materials and construction techniques that were built to last.
Taking time to source the perfect piece and then make sure that it is high quality will mean that you’ll have something that you’re likely to cherish for years to come.
This guide shares my practical tips for buying vintage furniture, from assessing quality and authenticity to understanding restoration, scale and long-term value. Taking the time to source the right piece means you’re far more likely to choose something you’ll live with and love for years to come.
1. ASSESS THE QUALITY
If you are unable to view a piece in person, you can request photos and a condition report so you are aware of any damage. There will always be wear and tear on vintage pieces, that is part of the appeal showing their signs of love, so don’t be surprised if there are some scratches here and there. However, you do need to ensure the furniture is structurally sound for frequent use so if you can test in person, this is always the best way and ask the owner if any repairs are needed on the piece so you know what you are buying.
Italian Walnut Dining Table by Fernando Meccani (1974) and Monk Dining Chairs by Afra & Tobia Scarpa (1973) from Kerrie-Ann Jones Gallery.
2. DON'T BE AFRAID TO RESTORE
Restoring a vintage piece is a great way to save money. Vintage sellers will often put a mark up to recover the cost of restoring furniture, however if you are happy to buy a piece un-restored and either fix it yourself or find someone to do it, you will make a big saving. If the issue with a piece is cosmetic, for example the upholstery, this is an easy fix by sourcing the fabric and an upholsterer who are expert in restoring vintage furniture.
3. RESEARCH THE INVESTMENT
Do your research on the item name, brand or designer to ensure the piece is genuine article. Unfortunately, there are replicas of iconic vintage designs, so you want to make sure you are getting the real deal. If you have an authentic piece, then it is a worthwhile investment.
Secondly, look for quality materials. If the piece is made from good quality or luxury materials it's likely the piece will be durable and last for many more decades to come. If it’s clear that the piece is in good condition, structurally sound and free from any big scratches, then it is a valuable piece and will hold its value for years to come. Exceptional craftsmanship is another consideration. Pieces that are well made and have taken many hours to design and build are going to last.
Italian Lambswool Boucle Sofa by Mario Sabot (1970s) from Kerrie-Ann Jones Gallery.
4. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR DESIGNER BRANDING OR MARKS
A lot of valuable vintage pieces will have manufacturer stamps, designer signatures or a label either underneath or at the back of the piece. This can increase the value so it pays to do your research! The same can be said for the limited availability or rarity of a piece. If the piece is a rare or a limited edition, its value can be much higher as they are more sought after by collectors. If something is an iconic piece it’s timeless and will always hold its appeal. Iconic design pieces are highly coveted so they become an investment that you can sell easily in the future.
5. MAKE SURE THE PIECE WILL WORK WITH YOUR SPACE
There is nothing worse then buying furniture only for it not to through the door or the scale looks wrong in relation to the room. Before buying your vintage piece, check the dimensions of the piece. Vintage furniture can often be larger or smaller than contemporary pieces.
Also, ensure the piece will fit with the scale of your other furniture and the room. A large sofa might overwhelm a small living space.
Rare, Collectible Ash Wood and Cognac Leather Dining Chairs by Silvio Coppola (1970s) from Kerrie-Ann Jones Gallery.
6. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
If a piece speaks to you and fits your space and lifestyle, that’s what matters most. Trends come and go, but vintage pieces you truly love will always feel right in your home.
Integrating vintage furniture into your home’s design adds history, charm, and individuality - making your space feel curated and unique.
If you are looking for a beautiful vintage furniture piece for your home, I have you covered! Visit our Gallery page or Sydney showroom to view my curated collection of mid-century designs. 
Artona Armchair by Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Maxalto - a subsidiary of B&B Italia (1975) from Kerrie-Ann Jones Gallery.
FAQ: HOW TO BUY VINTAGE FURNITURE
How do I know if vintage furniture is authentic?
When buying vintage furniture, authenticity is often confirmed through construction details, materials and maker’s marks. Look for manufacturer stamps, labels or signatures, and check joinery and finishes for signs of hand craftsmanship and natural age rather than uniform wear.
Is buying vintage furniture a good investment?
Buying well-made vintage furniture can be a worthwhile long-term investment, particularly for pieces by known designers or manufacturers. Quality materials, strong construction and good condition all contribute to a piece’s ability to hold or increase its value over time.
What's the difference between vintage, antique and reproduction furniture?
Vintage furniture is generally between 20 and 100 years old, while antiques are over 100 years old. Reproduction furniture is newly made to replicate older styles. Understanding this distinction is essential when buying vintage furniture, as value and pricing vary significantly.
Should I buy restored or unrestored vintage furniture?
Both restored and unrestored vintage furniture can be good options. Restored pieces are often ready for immediate use, while unrestored pieces may offer better value if restoration costs are reasonable. Always factor restoration quotes into the total cost before buying.
How can I assess vintage furniture when buying online?
When buying vintage furniture online, request detailed photographs, a condition report and information about any previous repairs. Pay close attention to structural elements such as frames, joints and legs, rather than focusing only on surface wear.
What should I look for when buying vintage lighting?
When buying vintage lighting, check whether the wiring has been updated to meet current safety standards. Many older fixtures require rewiring, so it’s important to factor this cost into your decision before purchasing.
How do I know if a vintage piece will fit my space?
Before buying vintage furniture, carefully check dimensions and compare them to your room layout, access points and existing furniture. Vintage pieces can differ significantly in scale from contemporary designs, so proportion is key.
