Masterpiece London returned to Royal Hospital Chelsea this summer (30 June-6 July 2022) to showcase the finest works of art, design, furniture and jewellery from antiquity to the present day. At the annual collector’s paradise the Savills Salon blended contemporary design with carefully curated antiques to create a sustainable, chic and unique space.

Here are my top tips for creating a similar look at home.

Blend contemporary design with curated antiques

The blend of contemporary design with curated antiques is timeless and, importantly, is a more sustainable way to furnish your home. A greater awareness of sustainability has led to people being less concerned with the latest trends so embrace antiques from the ancient to Art Deco, whether you’re looking for furniture, collectibles or even glassware.

If you are sourcing new items of furniture for your home, look for pieces that have been manufactured in Britain which will ensure that they have a far lower carbon footprint than those that have not. Be aware of your material selection: wooden furniture is hugely versatile, but look for certified timber which is sustainably harvested and has a long life span.

Be brave in your choices and don’t stick to rules

Consider cross-collecting. Collecting across multiple fields is gaining popularity and for good reason as it gives you carte blanche to express your personality through your home. Be brave in your choices. For example, try mixing Old Master paintings with fashion photography or contemporary ceramics with 18th-century French furniture. Most importantly, have fun with your choices, don’t stick to any rules and choose pieces that you love.

Make way for maximalist interiors

Embrace maximalism. Think richly maximalist rather than minimalist and create an eclectic look by combining clashing colours, an array of textures, prints and, of course, objects. Display standout pieces in a fashionable ‘cabinet of curiosities’, where each piece can shine. 

Learn the layered look

When you combine pieces from different eras and different styles it gives a more natural and layered look to your home. Where that aesthetic is done well – in English country houses, for example –  families have been collecting for generations. You can’t emulate that by installing everything in one go. It takes time and an eye for enduring quality.

Tell a story

The stories artefacts tell are key to creating a unique design that can’t be replicated elsewhere. A bronze Greek breastplate, for instance, might be as handsome as a classical statue, but aren’t we also curious about the unknown warrior who wore it into battle? Collecting should be inquisitive as well as acquisitive. This will not only make your home more interesting and memorable, but imbue it with warmth.

Savills is returning to Masterpiece London for the ninth year as the official property partner and has partnered with celebrated interior designer, Sophie Paterson, who has created the Savills Salon. Sophie Paterson’s design blends contemporary design with carefully curated antiques to create a sustainable, chic and unique space. Combining cutting edge contemporary pieces such as the marble and bronze dining table by Tom Faulkner, design icons such as the oak chandelier by Cox London, and beautiful craftsmanship such as the hand-painted and embroidered silk wallpaper by Fromental.

Further information

Contact Sophie Paterson Interiors