This week, we are thrilled to introduce Caley Svensson, a content creator and interior designer with a unique flair for blending the charm of the English countryside with the spaciousness of her American “mcmansion.” Caley’s passion for secondhand shopping and decorating with antiques brings a rich history and storytelling element into her home. In this edition of Complementary. Guest Curations, Caley shares some insights into her passion for design along with her favorite finds in this week’s curation.

A Passion for Antiques and Second-Hand Treasures

Caley’s love for antiques and secondhand shopping blossomed when a close friend introduced her to the world of estate sales and online auctions.

"I became interested when one of my good friends saw how much I loved antiques and shopping secondhand," she shares. "She showed me how easy it was to use an auction platform and how she scored a gorgeous dining table for under $100. I knew right then and there I would be hooked too!"

A grand foyer featuring a curved double staircase, large chandelier, and a pedestal table with a large flower arrangement. A nicely decorated living room is in the background.

Design Aesthetic Rooted in Farm Life

When it comes to her design style, Caley’s aesthetic is a beautiful blend of her love for horses, farm life, and antiques.

"My design aesthetic is driven by my love of horses, farm life, antiques, and creating comfortable family homes," she explains.

This naturally evolves into an English Country style, where inspiration for color palettes come from both the great outdoors and the charm of country manor homes filled with heirloom antiques.

When it comes to her design style, Caley’s aesthetic is a beautiful blend of her love for horses, farm life, and antiques.

Bidding Favorites and Cherished Finds

Caley is a frequent bidder at online auctions, with a particular weakness for antique oil paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

"I can't help myself! However, some can get very pricey. I always mark as 'favorite' and will keep my fingers crossed that it stays within my budget," she confesses.

Caley's home is a reflection of her auction and secondhand find favorites including a stunning art wall filled with gilt-framed pastoral landscapes, portraiture, and still life paintings

Among her prized possessions, Caley highlights a stunning dining room chandelier purchased from a home in Westchester for under $1,000.

"I can't even imagine what the original owner paid! It's just a showstopper in the dining room," she says.

The showstopper crystal chandelier in Caley’s dining room, enhanced by the coffered ceiling and pastoral mural wallpaper along with mahogany dining furniture.

The One That Got Away

Every auction enthusiast has a story of the one that got away, and Caley is no exception.

"Oh yes! A couch from an auction. I had every reminder set on my phone but also had dinner plans that night. I was watching it carefully but then got lost in conversation with friends. My husband called to ask if we won it - and I froze! I forgot to raise my bid and lost by $5,” explains Caley.

“But it didn't end there,” she continues. “I was shopping on FB Marketplace and saw the couch listed for sale - the owner said it was too big for her space! But she wanted 4x the asking price. It killed me but I just couldn't pay it. I even begged her to lower the price and told her I was the one bidding against her. She wouldn't budge. I still think about that couch to this day."

Unique Finds and Lasting Memories

One of the most unique items Caley encountered was an antique copper soup cauldron, which was purchased by her parents and later given to her and her husband.

"Currently we keep our kids' toys in it - but it's a huge statement piece and apparently was used to cook soup for a village hundreds of years ago. I have yet to see anything like it," she marvels.

Tips for Auction Newbies

For those new to the world of online auctions and estate sales, Caley offers some valuable advice.

"My best advice is to look at the auction that doesn't seem too fancy or over the top,” she explains. “Usually, it is less bid on and often you can find great treasures where others aren't looking. Save everything to your favorites and always set a reminder! Lastly, broaden your search, there is often shipping."

A light and airy dining area featuring white walls and green trim.

Caley’s Curation

As part of her guest curation, Caley shares some of her favorite items, each embodying the timeless elegance and rustic charm of the English countryside:

1. Maitland Smith Mahogany and Satinwood Regency End Table (item #321273)

2. Set of 10 Regency Style Caned Back, Velvet Upholstered Dining Chairs (item #321326)

3. Fox Hunt Series Bench from Kenneth Lynch and Sons (item #255309)

4. Decorative Brass Mounted Painted Ceramic Compote Centerpiece Bowl (item #321307)

5. 19th Century Signed Oil on Canvas Painting, Bucolic Landscape with a River and Cliffs (item #320271)

6. Pair of French Empire Style Brass Candlestick Form Table Lamps (item #321340)

7. Bill Huebbe Equestrian Chandelier with Nine Lights (item #289687)

8. Carved Marble Bust, Victor Hugo (item #320630)

9. Compatible Pair of Large Chinese Blue and White Porcelain Ginger Jars with Exotic Birds (item #291268)

10. Intricate Tapestry After an 18th C. Flemish/Belgian Work "Goddesses of Spring" (item #321434)

Caley Svensson’s ability to seamlessly blend the beauty of the English countryside with her modern American home is truly inspiring. Her passion for antiques and secondhand finds not only adds character to the spaces she decorates, but also preserves a piece of history.

We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into Caley’s world and find inspiration in her curated selections.