Vintage Lake Shore Drive penthouse. The tall empire desk is from Antique Resources. (Image Credit Craig Dugan)
Designers Who Blend Antiques in Contemporary Spaces
Greetings!
We're thrilled to bring you the first of monthly Designer Spotlight Series!

Antique Resources not only treasures the timeless beauty of antiques, but also celebrates the creative minds who find the most interesting homes for them.

This month, we're shining the spotlight on Tony Stavish of A. W. Stavish Designs of Chicago. Tony has been coming to Antique Resources for over 30 years. He is more than a customer at this point, and we are truly thankful he continues to visit and consider Antique Resources as a source for good quality antique pieces. We are thrilled Tony accepted the invitation to share his talent with you.

Tony has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to integrate our antiques into beautifully designed spaces. Recently, Tony selected a pair of French Empire Gilt sconces with a Swedish faux finish in pale antique colors.
The sconces and chandelier (above and right) were purchased from Antique Resources. The paint finish is from Simes Studios.
Meet Tony Stavish
Tony Stavish truly enjoys using antiques in his projects.

"I love the history of it all. Antiques have lived a life and will now get to live a second life in a new home. Antiques give rooms and people’s lives a sense of history that would not be there if we purchased something new."
The master bath is same Lake Shore Drive penthouse as the blue living room above; this space was previously an attic luggage store room. (Image Credit Craig Dugan)
Tony is fascinated with history and shares images from his travels where he always finds design inspiration on his website. 

"I have come across some of my favorite antiques unexpectedly in a Paris flea market or shopping the markets in the south of France and the Portobello Road shopping district in London," said Tony. "I was in Ireland last September and spent 80% of the time touring historic castles and homes for inspiration." 
French Louis XV Style Mirror from Antique Resources (Image Credit Craig Dugan)
Favorite pieces from Tony:

An 18th century oak side table with exquisite quarter-sawn oak graining. It was originally a writing table that will now be used as a nightstand in a bedroom. 

A giant English Empire armoire replaced a closet in a guest bedroom. It contained two sections: one part of the interior was upholstered housing the TV.
"People will always be drawn to history, old things and the pent-up discovery that comes with it. Renew, reuse, and recycle. There is nothing better than antiques for sustainability." - Tony Stavish
Hinsdale Show House
When asked how he strikes a balance between antique and modern, Tony says that "it all comes down to proportion and scale. With the old and the new, making sure things fit and feel comfortable."

"There is no secret formula it all comes down to scale and proportion and how they relate."

"I really enjoy introducing clients to antiques and working with the pieces they already have in new ways."

The pandemic created an interesting opportunity for Tony to introduce antiques to clients. Many furniture options had long or unknown delivery times due to supply chain issues.

"I purchased a circa 1780 English Elm Cricket Table for a client in California and was pleased the client was open to antiques," said Tony.
This charming Circa 1780 English elm cricket table has acquired a nice patina.
Blending historical pieces with contemporary aesthetics is shown in the above residence. The Cricket Table; dating back to the 1700s, seamlessly integrates into the room's fresh, organic modern vibe.

“This image showcases the versatility of Tony’s design expertise, from traditional to eclectic styles, and now to this stunning space with its clean lines and natural elements,” said Maribel.
Circa 1810 George III Mahogany Sideboard. Recently, Tony acquired this Georgian sideboard that is being kept private for personal enjoyment.
From Milwaukee Markets to Chicago Chic:
Tony's Journey to Interior Design Mastery
Tony was born to be an interior designer. He grew up in Milwaukee before coming to Chicago. Tony knew from a young age that his mother had impeccable design taste!

"We did not have a lot of money yet our home always looked very put together. Together we would visit markets and yard sales. Once we came home with a piano on top of the car!"

If you had to advise up-and-coming interior designers, do you have any words of wisdom to share?

"Make friends with our predecessors and learn through what they have accomplished.

"I also show photos of other people's work so they can visualize how their space can look.

"What keeps me coming back to Antique Resources? The variety and the service - items are in great condition. Another reason I shop there is that
Antique Resources brings the world of antiques to Chicago, from France, England, Argentina and many other places."


The Future of Antiques

I asked Tony if he felt that Antiques have a future and here is what he had to say:

"People will always be drawn to history, old things and the pent up discovery that comes with it. Renew, reuse, and recycle. There is nothing better than antiques for sustainability."
"I really enjoy introducing clients to antiques and working with the pieces they already have in new ways." - Tony Stavish
Get Featured in Our Next Newsletter 

Are you an interior designer with a knack for blending antique and modern aesthetics?

We would love to highlight your projects and photos in our upcoming newsletters. Please send us photos and stories of your favorite spaces featuring pieces from Antique Resources.

Here’s why you should share your work:

  • Showcase Your Talent: Let the world admire your creativity and expertise.
  • Inspire Others: Your designs can motivate fellow designers and enthusiasts.
  • Connect: Become part of a community that shares your passion for unique and historical pieces.
Special Thanks 

A heartfelt thank you to all the designers who have supported us through the years. Your vision and passion transform Antique Resources from a mere store into a fountain of inspiration.

Stay Connected 

Follow us on Instagram @antiqueresources and on Facebook @AntiqueResourcesInc and use #AntiqueResources to share your work and connect with fellow designers.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community. We look forward to celebrating your incredible designs and the unique ways you incorporate antiques into modern living spaces.

Best,