Style Guide

Decorate with vintage and bring timeless

charm to your home

There’s something magical about vintage pieces—they carry stories, personality, and a sense of history that brand-new items just can’t replicate. Decorating with vintage is about weaving charm into your everyday life. Whether collected, inherited or reimagined for a more contemporary home, layering vintage pieces will create a graceful, lived in home.

Start small

A vintage print in your hallway, an old wooden chest and a cheeky bust can become conversation starters. These pieces add character without overwhelming your space, and our signature antiqued brass finish on this retro-fit Plug-in Scallop Wall Light bring the whole scene together.

Mix old with new

One of the joys of vintage decorating is contrast. Paring pieces with a deep history alongside a modern vase and our retro style Ellington Wall Light keeps your space feeling fresh and intentional, rather than dated. This charming stool was made by Robert "Mouseman" Thompson (1876–1955), who was a renowned British furniture maker from Kilburn, North Yorkshire, famous for carving a small mouse onto his high-quality English oak pieces. His company, Robert Thompson's Craftsmen Ltd, still operates using traditional methods, often inspired by Arts & Crafts principles.

Don’t be afraid

Show wear and tear. Scratches, faded paint and patina on vintage items are part of it’s story. This Right Handed Double Rococo Wall Light pairs charmingly with the slightly bowed top on this Victorian side table and the antique glass vase with fresh, minimalist flowers captures the natural daylight streaming into the room.

Use your treasures with intention

Always choose pieces that speak to you and fit your space. A home decorated with intention and sprinkled with history is a home that feels truly lived in. Our Club Wall Light, Drayton Pendant and old style hinges and latches, suit this reclaimed wooden door and, with the addition of an earthenware jug, the picture is complete.

Decorating with vintage isn’t about perfection - it’s about personality. A few well-chosen pieces can transform your home into a space that tells a story - your story. For more inspiration on how to decorate with vintage pieces, see our Shop The Look page: Celebrating Vintage Style

For more information about your Jim Lawrence lighting, explore our Knowledge Base for handy guides, FAQs and top tips. Browse the Jim Lawrence website to see all of our hand forged and finished lighting and homeware.