Our homes, especially the older we get, are naturally furnished & decorated with a hodgepodge of “collected” items, acquired over years.  Whether pieces that still have life and usefulness or ones with purely sentimental value, our decor evolves over time, creating a mixture of old and new which fits our current lifestyle and needs.

From a decorating professional’s point of view, nothing’s as challenging—or as rewarding—as decorating with and/or around inherited or heirloom pieces of furniture.  These pieces, filled with history, emotional significance and unique character bring an element of charm and familiarity to homes newer furniture simply can’t replicate.

From grandfather clocks to china cabinets, curios to pianos, incorporating heirloom pieces into a modern home presents its own set of challenges.  The key is to try and strike a balance between honoring the past while still creating a space which reflects your own personal style.

Understanding an Heirloom’s Story

As a designer, getting “into the heads” of our clients is paramount.  Asking leading questions which help us understand what is important and how we can bring our client’s vision to life is always top priority.  Before designing around any heirloom piece or pieces, it’s essential for us to take time to understand their story.  Were they a central part of family gatherings? Did they belong to someone who had a deep love for them?  Is there a special memory associated with them?  Understanding the history behind each piece helps us appreciate its value to our clients and also inspires us to find creative ways to re-integrate them into them an updated home.

Grandma’s Piano

One of the most common “inherited” pieces we encounter in homes is the piano.  Once a status symbol and focal point in many living rooms, pianos have lost their relevance in most modern homes.  What once helped create so many fond memories has become an inherited “burden” to decorate around.  With fewer and fewer children (and adults) learning to play, these beautiful (and expensive) instruments are usually tucked away in corners without a clear purpose or function.

So what to do?  Pianos are difficult to ignore!  They want to be a focal point in the room whether used or not.  If your heirloom piano is in good condition and holds significant sentimental value, consider making it the focal point of the room.  Place it in a prominent position, such as against a feature wall or in a spacious living area where it can be easily admired.  Surround the piano with complementary furniture and decor that enhances its presence.  For example, a vintage piano might pair beautifully with mid-century modern chairs or a classic Persian rug.

Blending Old with New

One of the most exciting aspects of interior design is the ability to mix styles, creating a space which feels both timeless and contemporary.  When decorating around an heirloom piano or any other piece, consider blending it with modern elements to create a cohesive look.  For instance, a sleek, minimalist room with clean lines can provide a striking contrast to the ornate details of a vintage piano or cabinet.  Incorporate contemporary art, modern lighting fixtures or streamlined furniture to create a balanced and harmonious environment.

Color is another powerful tool for integrating an heirloom piece into your home.  If the piano has a dark wood finish, painting the walls a lighter shade to create contrast and make the room feel more open.  Alternatively, you can use the piano’s color as inspiration for the room’s palette, pulling in complementary tones through textiles, artwork, and accessories.

Embracing Change: When It’s Time to Let Go

While heirloom pieces often carry sentimental value, it’s essential to remember that your home should be a reflection of your current life and style.  If the piano no longer fits with your vision for your space, it’s okay to consider letting it go.  Grandma passed the piece to you because she wanted you to enjoy and cherish it as much as she.  It was never intended to be a “curse” or “obligation”.  Deciding to let go doesn’t diminish her memory or the significance.  Instead, it allows you to create a home that truly feels like your own and what grandma wouldn’t approve of that?

Before making a final decision, explore alternatives. Could the piano, china cabinet or table be repurposed or restored in a way that suits your design? Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint or a new location can breathe new life into an old piece. However, if it simply doesn’t fit, consider finding it a new home where it will be appreciated and loved.

Finding Peace in the Process

Whether you decide to keep an heirloom piece as a focal point, incorporate it into a blend of old and new, or pass it on, the most important thing is that your home feels like you.  Working with heirloom pieces is a unique opportunity to connect with your history while expressing your personal style.  It’s a journey that involves reflection, creativity, and sometimes, tough decisions—but the result is a space that tells your story.

In the end, decorating with and around heirloom pieces is about finding harmony between the past and present.  It’s about honoring the legacy of the pieces while making them your own.  And sometimes, it’s about recognizing that the best way to respect that legacy is to let it go, making space for new memories and new beginnings.

Happy Heirloom Decorating from Decor Designs.  815-245-2433