This weekend, in need of a little inspiration, I ventured just west of downtown Chicago to
Antiques on Old Plank Road. One word for this store — HEAVEN! I could've spent hours searching through the 30,000 square feet of European treasures. I wasn't looking for anything in particular during this trip but the chest of drawers pictured above really caught my eye. I was immediately drawn to it's worn oak finish and the original blue paint still lingering on it — amazing considering it's from the 1700s. And it's as versatile as it is beautiful, it could be a side table next to your sofa with a lamp and big mirror above it or it could be used as storage for gloves, scarves, dog leashes and keys in your entryway. It's a piece that would last a lifetime. Feeling inspired? Below are more of my favorite find...Enjoy!
I'm absolutely obsessed with this exquisite pair of vintage Italian scrolled iron side chairs and their amazing alligator upholstered seats.
I overheard the Sam, the incredibly friendly salesperson, telling another couple that Old Plank has the largest selection of antique French club chairs in North America - pretty impressive.
This stainless steel and bronze kitchen island is just one of the many custom-made piece available at Old Plank. Gorgeous, yes, but it's the antique French lady's writing desk with the original leather top and ebonized finish, pictured below, that really sent my head spinning. This petite table would work well in a bedroom as a vanity with the addition of a mirror and a modern stool or as a desk. Paying bills from a desk like this would feel so much more glamorous, don't you think?
The store is expecting a new shipment of French antiques sometime this week — looks like another trip is in order...who's coming with me?
Images by Kristin Kerr for Simply Smitten
