Antique wall art — from book engravings to 19th-century illustrations — is bang on trend in today’s interiors. Here's how to use these timeless pieces to elevate your home in line with the most stylish trends.

Why Antique Art Is Back in Vogue

Today’s design lovers are steering away from mass-produced prints and toward artwork that tells a story. Antique book engravings offer just that, a sense of history, craftsmanship, and individuality.

From botanical studies to architectural plates and zoological illustrations, these prints introduce texture and quiet sophistication into modern interiors.

The Rise of “Modern Traditional” Styling

One of the leading interior trends right now is modern traditional, a blend of contemporary furnishings and classical details. Designers are creating layered interiors where old and new coexist beautifully.

Antique wall art slots seamlessly into this look, offering contrast and refinement. A sleek hallway feels warmer with an 18th-century engraving. A minimal reading nook feels anchored with a classical portrait or architectural plate.

Gallery Walls with Character

Gallery walls are popular, but the 2025 approach is less curated, more collected. Rather than uniform rows of digital prints, decorators are mixing frame styles, print sizes, and historical eras to create unique, eclectic displays.

Antique prints are perfect here — especially when grouped by theme:
- A trio of natural history engravings
- A collection of hand-tinted botanicals
- A mix of portraiture and architectural studies

Sustainable Decorating with Antique Art

Sustainability in interiors is no longer optional. Buying antique artwork is inherently sustainable — no new materials, no factory waste, just existing beauty being re-used thoughtfully.

Decorating with genuine historical pieces is not only better for the planet, it’s also a way to stand out from the crowd.

How to Style Antique Prints in Your Home

Here are a few ideas for styling antique wall art with impact:

In the hallway

Create a strong first impression with a symmetrical set of framed botanicals, anatomical or marine life engravings.

Set of four 18th century detailed medical engravings wall mounted above a 19th century console table with marble top. Modern handmade sculpture of three jumping hares placed on the centre of the console table. — Detailed medical engravings, above a Victorian console table, decorated with modern sculpture.

In the bathroom

Add charm and texture with smaller-format nautical, marine life or natural history prints in simple frames.

A framed coloured illustration (to scale) showing the sailing and rigging plans of a Two Mast Topsail Schooner framed and mounted above a bath, with modern taps with telephone shower attachment in half wood panelled bathroom with blue colour scheme — Topsail schooner plans above bath.

In a reading nook or study

Anchor the space with a bold architectural drawing or classical portrait.

Over a fireplace

Use one large 18th-century piece as a focal point, especially in rooms with minimalist or rustic elements.

Final Thoughts: Decorating with Depth

In a world of digital overstimulation, living with physical artwork — especially pieces created centuries ago — brings a sense of calm and authenticity.

Antique wall art invites slow looking. It reminds us of craftsmanship and curiosity. It makes a room feel collected, not just decorated.

Explore Our Collection

👉 Browse our antique wall art collection: www.lodestardecorative.co.uk/shop

🖼️ Contact us for help sourcing a particular print or illustration: www.lodestardecorative.co.uk/contact

How Antique Wall Art Is Trending in Modern Interior Design