You Heard It Here First: This 17th-Century Furniture Style Is Hip Again
Ten ways to give it a spindle.
Updated Oct 11, 2018 9:39 PM
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From burying yourself in a Brontë sisters’ novel to obsessing over period-piece films, we could all use a bit of escapism right now, and because we’re spending so many hours at home, there’s never been a better time to travel through our furniture choices. Though it may be a centuries-old technique, we’re seeing spindle pieces everywhere.
From appearing in Graham Kostic’s Illinois home to Urban Outfitters’s most recent collection, the Victorian style, also known as bobbin or spool, was further popularized by 19th-century Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind, after she reportedly slept in a spindle-style bed. (Guess you could call her a cottagecore influencer?) Here are all the ways to work the look into your home, too.
Welcome Home
Crafted from acacia and fine rush, this bench is the perfect piece to welcome guests in an entryway. Or if you want to keep it all to yourself, use it as a decorative and functional moment at the end of your bed.
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Sitting Pretty
Piano-lacquered limbs that look more like a beaded necklace than a piece of decor make this chair stand out from the rest, beckoning you to curl up against its thick foam cushions with a good book and a roaring fire.
Fine Dining
When you have a table that looks like it’s straight out of an old-timey romance novel, you have no choice but to break out the taper candles and classic French wine and cook up a hearty stew to dine in 18th-century style.
Work of Art
WFH might be a fairly new concept, but spindle-style desks date back to what feels like the beginning of time. (Can’t you just imagine Jane Austen writing Pride and Prejudice on one of these?) This soothing gray option is technically for kids but can fit adults comfortably, too.
Royally Obsessed
Nothing screams “elegance” quite like a tufted ottoman, and while you might be used to only seeing them on The Crown, we highly recommend giving yourself the royal treatment in your own castle (er, apartment). Choose from four wood finishes for the legs and endless upholstery options, from solids to houndstooth.
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Landing Pad
A console table this chic deserves to be in the spotlight. Place yours in the entryway to house your most sculptural lamps and eye-catching tchotchkes.
Baby Talk
Spindle-style cribs have long been in vogue, but bring this one into the 21st century with neon linens and a sleek, sculptural mobile. Or go all out with a head-to-toe wall mural to punch it up.
Beauty Sleep
A dramatic headboard can overtake a room, but this delicate bobbin has an airy quality that plays well with other design moments. Frame it against patterned wallpaper to allow the wood to really pop.
Bedside Friend
Understated enough to make your statement lamp stand out and eye-catching enough to liven up your room, this bedside table does it all, even hiding your not-so-aesthetically-pleasing necessities. Your retainer and Advil have never felt so fancy.
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High Design
Elevate a willowy plant or ceramic vessel on a folk-influenced pedestal that can double as a nightstand or drink holder next to the sofa.
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