A very special experience.   The Johnston Collection Receives a  Refreshing Makeover.

 

Words by Jamie Allpress, Allpress Antiques

Photography by Russell Winnell

Recently I was invited to re-arrange the entire contents of the The Johnston Collection, to create my own interpretation and to give visitors to the house a fresh experience.

I heard about the Johnston collection many years ago and on seeing it was 'enthralled' by the overall quality and uniqueness of Mr Johnston's collection.

Visually for me sometimes less is more and my initial reaction was to lighten the content.  Thus began a process as an example I placed on painting where previously there had been two, lots of subtle changes.  I certainly don't appreciate minimalism but on the other hand, I don't like a cluttered appearance.

There are several exceptional pieces in the collection, I would say the 18th Century English walnut longcase clock is my favourite.  It was traditionally in the narrow hallway where it could be shown to it's full potential.  I decided to move it to the drawing room, where it has ample wall space framing it and is immediately visible when entering the room.

Most people have a preference for a certain style, whether decorative 18th -19th Century French or Victorian furniture, Deco or my particular love for the 16th - 19th Century English and Continental country furniture also art, treen, ceramics and pewter from the same periods.

When decorating a very important point is to be patient and thereby hopefully avoiding any future mistakes and regrets. Consult with your favourite dealer or decorator who are usually happy to share their knowledge and contacts.  It's often helpful to look through magazines to get ideas of a certain style you like.

When you enter a house or foyer of a building I love to be bowled over by the immediate impact of that special piece, that first impression is so important.  Keep in mind you can mix antiques and modern  pieces very effectively in either a contempory or traditional setting.