What types of items are you drawn to when shopping at an auction?

We're always drawn to pieces with character - items that feel storied, sculptural, or a bit unexpected. Whether it's a beautifully worn leather chair, a soulful piece of art, or something with great shape and scale, we look for things that add depth and personality to a space. Auctions are the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind details that make a room feel thoughtfully collected.

What are some of your tips for finding antiques and vintage pieces to create unique interiors?

Stay curious and follow what catches your eye. We always suggest looking beyond trends and focusing on shape, material, and craftsmanship - those are the details that stand the test of time. Mix high and low, and don't be afraid of a little patina. Imperfections often add the most charm. Most importantly, buy what you love - those are the pieces that will make your space feel personal and layered.

How do you incorporate antiques and interesting finds into your projects?

We love using antiques and collecting pieces to bring soul and contrast to a space. Whether it's an antique wooden stool in a modern kitchen or a traditional chair reupholstered in a fresh fabric, these finds are what make a space truly interesting. It's less about placing a perfect "statement piece" and more about creating a mix that feels natural and lived-in.

How important do you think it is to mix antique and vintage pieces when designing a home versus buying everything brand new?

We prioritise this on every project and with every client! Antiques and vintage pieces bring a sense of history and personality that new items just can't replicate. They add texture, depth, and a feeling that a home evolved over time. Even in the most modern spaces, a well-placed vintage piece can ground the room and make it feel more inviting and authentic.

The Parnham Park auction has many special and unique natural history highlights including a mammoth skeleton, ammonites, corals and a large amethyst cluster. What are some thoughtful ways to integrate historically significant pieces into a space with more contemporary design elements? What are some creative ways to incorporate natural elements into an interior?

Historically significant pieces, especially those from the natural world, can be such striking additions to contemporary spaces. A large mineral or fossil can become a sculptural focal point on a clean-lined pedestal or displayed in a minimal niche.

When it comes to natural elements, we love layering materials like stone, wood, and raw textures alongside more refined finishes. It creates a harmonious balance. Even something as simple as a beautiful piece of driftwood or framed botanical series can bring in that organic feel and connect the indoors to nature in a really thoughtful way. 

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Auction Details

Auction: Tuesday 13 May, 10.30am BST
Auction venue: Dreweatts Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE, England
Viewing venue: Parnham Park, Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3LZ, England

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VIEWING: Viewing at Parnham Park, Dorset | Entrance with catalogue only (admits two)

Friday 9 May: 10.30am-5pm
Saturday 10 May: 10.30am-5pm
Sunday 11 May: 10.30am-5pm
Monday 12 May: 10.30am-5pm

CATALOGUE: To purchase a printed catalogue, please visit our Catalogue Subscriptions page. 

BIDDING: 
Bidding is available online, in person at Dreweatts, by telephone or you can leave commission (absentee) bids. To learn more including details on registering to bid, payment and shipping, click here. To register to bid, click here.

FURTHER INFORMATION: 
General enquiries: + 44 (0) 1635 553 553 | housesales@dreweatts.com
Press enquiries: press@dreweatts.com