Nadine Finnegan, founder of Decurate Interiors, is known for creating timeless, layered spaces that blend warmth, elegance and functionality. With a background in both Interior Design and History, combined with a deep appreciation for global travel and craftsmanship, Nadine draws inspiration from vintage textiles, antiques and thoughtfully sourced pieces. Her work reflects a passion for character-rich interiors that feel both personal and refined.
How do you go about incorporating vintage textiles into your work?
I’m a huge advocate of incorporating both vintage and antique textiles into my schemes and love that each piece is completely unique. Depending on the piece in question, I may choose to weave in a vintage textile as a simple cushion, a beautiful Vintage Silk Sari lampshade or a bedspread. Sometimes I may give them a bigger moment with a large scale wall-hanging, that really helps to add drama to any space. Whatever you choose, you’ll be adding a huge dose of individuality and charm to your overall scheme.
How best to display them?
I personally love to incorporate vintage textiles as wall art. When most people have a big blank wall, they often reach for photos or a larger piece of art but when I’m creating a room scheme, I purposefully leave large gaps in the room allowing me to use vintage textiles.
Where to start when using vintage textiles?
Using vintage textiles should feel effortless and never contrived. Don’t try to create a scheme that feels too “matchy-matchy”. The objective should be to bring some balance and ultimately add a dose of joy to your scheme. I live by the words of the great Interior Designer, Alidad who says: “As long as the colours sort of become friends and can have a little chat every now and then - that's fine.”
Can they inspire a whole scheme?
Absolutely! They’re a great starting point as you can draw so many wonderful colours from them, which will help to inform the overall look and feel of the room. I am constantly drawn to the rich and textured patterns of suzanis which can instantly be used to make sense of any scheme.
Unique creative ways of working with vintage textiles?
Vintage textiles are super versatile and can be fashioned into almost anything from a headboard, curtains to a chair cover. The possibilities are endless! Why not consider creating a truly one-of-a-kind item of furniture such as an ottoman upholstered in a suzani. It’s the height of chic and has an almost heritage and heirloom quality about it.
Why do you love working with vintage textiles?
Vintage textiles are timeless and truly help to create visual interest. Layering them helps to envelop the space in warmth and cosiness. I also believe they’re a smart decorative choice, as there is something to be found in everyone’s budget!! I collect suzanis and love to use them as bedspreads, layered alongside smaller-scale prints.
Why would you recommend others to work with vintage textiles?
I love that they’re a super sustainable way of decorating and that each piece brings with it so much character and charm of yesteryear.
What would your top 3 tips be for anyone looking to start using vintage textiles?
Often the sourcing part can feel daunting but should be the most fun. I’m constantly keeping my eye out for those rare gems that you can often find online, as well as at antique fairs and flea markets. I’m a great believer that the right piece will often find you!
I don’t tend to worry too much about their condition unless they’re hugely distressed with holes and are torn beyond repair. If you find that the textiles are in a fair condition but they’ve got bits which are not right, I tend to use them on smaller items such as a cushion, as they can be sized accordingly. It’s also a good idea to make friends with your dry cleaner as they can usually help with cleaning delicate textiles, particularly if you’re looking to display a piece as a wall hanging and it’s in need of a gentle spruce.
