Daniel is renovating his 1908 Edwardian home in the heart of Essex with his partner Archie. He tells us about his design inspiration and the thrill of buying vintage.
How would you describe your interior style?
I would describe my interior style as colourful, considered and eclectic. I am inspired by 20th-century design but with a 21st-century twist. I love to mix old with new and like to think of my interior DNA as timeless, buying pieces I really love and knowing that I'll have them for a long time. I like to lean into trends, but decide which ones have longevity and work for me in my home.
How do you use vintage in your home?
I love to use dashes of vintage in my home, mixing old with new can bring a new lease of life to your room or scheme. It gives that edge, that difference, whereas if everything was new, I don't think it would be as interesting. I also think the sustainability of vintage is fantastic, buying pre-loved and using foresight can really make a piece shine and finish a room off perfectly.
What do you love most about buying vintage?
What I love most about buying vintage is that they can truly be one-off pieces, conversation starters and can add the je ne sais quoi to any room. I also love how many bargains you can get. Some people really don't know what they are selling. There is a certain thrill when buying vintage and antiques, I often think ‘do I buy it now, or do I come back for it?’. The anxiety of it going is sometimes too much.
What does home mean to you?
For me, home means so much! I really believe you're a product of your own environment and your home is an extension of you. I literally dress in the colours of my home subliminally. So paint the walls the colour you wish, get the jazzy sofa, display your favourite vintage finds, and do whatever brings you joy. Home really is where the heart is.
Photography by Daniel Matthews
