Kim Lucian's Antique Treasures & Auction Adventures: Exploring Vintage Elegance and Design Delights

Another exciting edition of Complementary. Guest Curations is here! This week’s guest curation features Kim Lucian, the talented blogger and content creator behind the blog Design Confetti.

Kim’s keen eye for vintage and antique pieces combines with her passion for transforming spaces. She also shares her experience about her ongoing Victorian renovation in San Francisco on TikTok.

Kim has been in the world of interior design for the past 15 years, working as a writer and photographer. She currently shares her renovation journey online.

Kim's unique perspective and love for ornate details make her an excellent guide through the world of estate sales and online auctions.

Let’s check out her hand-picked curation of estate and online auction merchandise!

Discovering Ornate Comforts: Kim’s Curated Collection from Black Rock Galleries

1. Impressive and Interesting Collection of Vintage and Antique Leather Bound Books

2. Antique French Diminutive Carved and Paint Decorated Display Cabinet

3. 18th Century American Windsor Chair

4. Fantastic Collection of 13 Carved & Gilt Framed Pictures and Mirrors

5. Pair of Gilt Wrought Iron Sconces

6. Vintage Burled Mahogany Roll Top Desk

7. Charming Vintage Peint Mein (Handpainted) Sardine Can Motif Limoge Box

8. Vintage Wood Console/Server Table

This collection showcases Kim's adept selection of exquisite antique and unique vintage finds from estate sales and online auctions. It also mirrors her distinctive design style — comfortable and collected – featuring moody colors and intricate details.

Q&A with Kim: Learning Her Design Philosophy and Secrets for Estate Sales and Online Auctions

How did you become interested in estate sales and online auctions?

I’ve always loved to shop for unique vintage and antique pieces. However, after purchasing and renovating a Victorian, I became interested in sourcing pieces that fit the character of the house.

How do you describe your design style or aesthetic?

Comfortable and collected with moody colors and ornate details. I love spaces that invite you to spend a little time with them and reward you with things you might not have noticed at first glance.

What are some online auction treasures you always find yourself bidding upon?

Leather-bound books, Delft pottery, crystal chandeliers, bobbin chairs, antique oil paintings, tapestries, and smaller unique items that I know I couldn’t pick up just anywhere. Like matchstick holders and silver sugar tongs. I love all the little details.

What's your absolute favorite item ever purchased at an estate sale or online auction?

My Gilded Girandole Mirrors. I initially purchased just one then immediately turned back around and went back for the other and was so grateful it was still there. They completely make the room! Plus I learned the lesson: never break up a set!

Share a ‘regret story’ about an estate item you didn’t purchase – that missed opportunity still lingering in your mind.

There are too many. But the one I think of often was an estate sale with piles of gorgeous handwoven rugs. I picked up a few, but when I look back at the photos I snapped, I kick myself for not taking any of the larger ones home.

Another I think about often was a complete Delft mural backsplash I spotted at auction. The shipping put it out of reach, but I still dream about it.

What is the most unique or rare item you encountered during your experiences with estate sales and online auctions?

Probably the 18th-century patent file we picked up at a flea market (or, as my husband calls it, "60 junk drawers!"). I've never come across anything else like it.

Any tips for online auction or estate sale newbies?

Spend time learning what you like and looking at inspiration images of styled antiques that resonate with you. Set your budget before an auction. It can be so easy to become too competitive over a piece and get swept up in the excitement. (Don’t ask me how I know.)