An Old Soul Warms the HeartAfter leaving a meeting today with a new client, I was driving in great ponder, "Why do I REALLY love antiques so very much?". I had just discussed design philosophy in great detail and how antiques play a leading role in my work. I'm not saying I couldn't design a room without them, but almost saying that. An antique piece is an "old soul" that grounds a space. It's a piece that gives a room presence and importance, elegance and clarity, and call me a little whacky, but its energy is good, solid and real. I tell young clients time and time again, "Save your pennies, your nickels, your dollars...buy the best quality piece you can for your money, you won't ever regret it". And hire a designer that can steward your money best. What you are paying a designer for is his/her "eyes", experience, knowledge and ability to help you have a well-rounded collection. And yes, I speak from experience...I couldn't buy pieces in my own collection today if I had to. I couldn't afford it, they have at least doubled, maybe tripled in value, and that my friends, is a good feeling. So, I'm sharing some "old souls" with you today. I love each and every one. Some come from dealers I work with regularly and some I've bookmarked along the way, ready to find the perfect place for them. Enjoy!The Tom Petty: Rustic, refined with a style all its own. Netherlands, Circa 1820, unusual Flemish three drawer chest in pine with original faux bois finish. Kantelberg Antiques & Interiors. Click here to visit.The Sela Ward: Classic, refined and exact. Mid-18th Century Georgian Mahogany Chest on Chest, England. Penny Farthing Antiques. Click here to visit.The Mick Jagger: Quirky, one-of-a-kind, perfect juxtaposition. Large 1870's Louis XVI Style Armchair. 1stdibs Paris. Click here to visit.The Charlize Theron: Quiet, elegant, with a story to tell. French, Set of four early 19th Century Louis XV Style Panels made from Dufour Scenic wallpaper. Jacqueline Adams Antiques. Click here to visit.The Halle Berry: Charming, curvaceous, a looker you can't miss. Pair Regency Peacock chairs in Grosfeld House style, 20th Century. The Collection Los Angeles. Click here to visit.The Eddie Vedder: Unexpected, layered, an artistic genius. 18th Century Italian painted commode. Karla Katz. Click here to visit.The Catherine Zeta Jones: Flawless, fine and staying power that's undeniable. Italian, Veneto, Neoclassical Walnut Scantonata Credenza, 2nd quarter 19th Century. Robuck Company Antiques, Ltd. Click here to visit.The Sarah Jessica Parker: Distinguished, superior, flawless. 19th Century Italian, Olive Wood, Side Commode. Karla Katz. Click here to visit.The Courtney Cox: Glamorous, beautiful with a grounded quality. Italian Baroque Walnut three drawer chest, Circa 1700. Epoca. Click here to visit. I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend. Please let me hear which is your favorite. I love to know what my readers are thinking. You're the best! We'll talk soon. Gwen To subscribe by email to Ragland Hill Social, click here.To become a fan of Ragland Hill Social, click here.To follow Ragland Hill Social on Networked Blogs, click here.To follow Ragland Hill Social on Google, Yahoo or Twitter, click here.