10 things from grandma's house that are too good to toss

Key Takeaways

• Repurpose heirloom china, glassware, and silver to add charm and history to your gatherings.
• Vintage quilts, frames, and furniture bring unique craftsmanship and character to modern spaces.
• These items create a layered, personal home that feels meaningful and timeless.

It's safe to say that your grandma's home is likely full of all kinds of storied pieces. Rather than assuming that all of these are too dated to utilize in your everyday life or too tired-looking to display in your home, think again. After all, says Lisa Graham, the founder of Laurel Alexander Interiors, who serves the Southeastern U.S., "The most meaningful homes feel collected, layered, and deeply personal—not purchased in one afternoon." Here, Graham and other Southern designers speak to 10 different items from Grandma's that will add charm and elegance to your space, even into the mid-2020s.

China

In Bailey Ward's view, a good set of china is always worth holding onto. "Even if you’re not in love with the pattern, you can easily mix and match to give it a fresh look," says the founder of Bailey Ward Interiors in Atlanta, Georgia, who did just this. "I inherited a set of gold-rimmed Limoges china and love pairing it with more contemporary salad plates or playful block-print napkins for an updated feel," the designer explains.

Martha Midgette, the founder of Martha Midgette Designs in Raleigh, North Carolina, feels similarly that heirloom china is a must have. "Those delicate (yet durable) teacups with the slightly worn gold rim and serving platters with a specific floral pattern are much more storied than anything you’d find in today’s mass-produced wedding registry favorites," she says. "They’ll undoubtedly bring a sense of history to your table."

Really not much of an entertainer? Take it upon yourself to get a little creative. "Even if you don’t see yourself using Grandma’s fine china, you can create a memorable decorative wall vignette by hanging the plates on the wall in an interesting arrangement that is both a sentimental moment and a one of a kind design statement," suggests Brooke Cole, the founder of Brooke Cole Interiors in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Glassware

If you love to have friends over for cocktails, be sure to give Grandma's old glassware new life in your home. "Vintage glassware—think martini glasses, coupes, or crystal—adds instant charm to any tablescape while feeling substantial in your hand," Midgette says. And if you come across a complete set of six or more glasses, she adds, that's even better for hosting.

Silver

Additionally, real silver will never go out of style and is something you can easily repurpose in your own home. "I love hosting with my grandmother’s silver place settings, platters, and serving pieces," Ward says. "There’s something special about creating new memories while using pieces that carry such a meaningful connection to her."

Portraits

Even if you don't know who is in a given portrait that had been hanging at Grandma's, don't let that hold you back from displaying it in your home. "Nothing commands attention quite like a stern lady or a mysterious gentleman in oils staring out from your sitting room," Midgette says. "Hung in a favorite gathering spot, they can become a fun conversation piece that anchors your space with timeless character."

Needlepoint Pillows

There are many places to buy cheeky needlepoint pillows today, but what's better than an original? "Needlepoint pillows are making a comeback," Midgette says, noting that she appreciates many different styles. "Maybe it’s a hunting dog, a witty saying framed by a colorful geometric border, or an intricate floral design, the level of handiwork is honestly unmatched, layering more personality into your space."

Quilts

Graham underscores just how valuable the quilts in your grandmother's home may be. "Meticulous handwork like this is rare today," she says. "Many quilts were pieced from family clothing—literal scraps of history." Even if you don't wish to use the quilt for its intended purpose, Graham notes that would look nice draped over a blanket ladder or even displayed as art. "Frame a small section as textile art for a modern-meets-historic moment," she suggests.

Cast-Iron Cookware

Do not even think of parting ways with cast-iron cookware, Graham adds. "Southern kitchens and cast iron go hand-in-hand," she says. However, you may wish to give these pieces a quick update. "Restore and re-season, then put it back to work—cornbread, cobblers, Sunday suppers," she offers.

Vintage Magazines

What were the home and style trends in the '50s and '60s? It's likely that some of Grandma's oldest magazines will provide a glimpse into this special time, so keep them if you come across them. "Vintage home and design magazines are a goldmine of inspiration," Midgette says. "The nostalgic spaces, styles, and photo spreads transport you to another era when things felt slower and more intentional."

Solid Wood Furniture

Experts will all tell you the same thing—they just don't make furniture like they did back in Grandma's day! "Quality lumber and joinery are expensive and rare today," Graham says. "You can change a finish; you can’t fake solid construction." She adds that you can always reupholster a piece from Grandma's that has good bones and just needs a contemporary fabric swap.

Wood Frames

Speaking of wood, don't be so quick to get rid of wood frames, either. "Framing can be expensive, so those chunky wooden frames collecting dust are hard to beat," Midgette says. And think about all of the ways you can mix and match older frames and newer art. "Pairing a vintage frame with a modern abstract piece creates a neat juxtaposition that gives both the art and your walls depth and dimension," the designer adds.

Related: 10 Valuable Items That Could Be Hiding In Your Grandmother's House

Read the original article on Southern Living