Welcome to this edition of Complementary. Guest Curations! We are delighted to feature Nancy Zoleta from @ahomeforkeeps, a passionate home decorator who believes that investing in exquisite pieces can transform any space. Nancy’s philosophy revolves around finding the right items that complement each other, showcasing that it is all about the details.

Nancy’s Black Rock Galleries Auction Picks

Nancy's curated collection reflects her love for French, Parisian, and neoclassical styles. Each piece is carefully chosen to add elegance and charm to any home.

1. 19th Century French Louis XVI Style Settee

2. Large Porcelain Neoclassical Banquet Lamp

3. Ca. Early 20th Century French Marble Top End Table

4. Pair of French Tall Marquetry Decorated End Tables

5. Set of Six Fine French Vintage Carved and Paint Decorated Dining Chairs

6. Regency Style Mahogany Gilt Decorated Armchair

7. A Fine Pair of Classic French Style Figured Wood Veneer Cabinets

8. French Louis XV Style Walnut Dining Chairs

9. Pair Fine Bell Lantern Form Clear Etched Glass and Brass Wall Sconces

10. Fine Directoire Style Armchair

Q&A with Nancy

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

I became fascinated with chateau renovation projects on YouTube and fell in love with the furniture, art, and decor. This inspired me to start going to estate sales and searching online to incorporate these styles into my own home.

Peek Inside Nancy's Home: What catches your eye first?
Is it the curated console display, the styled seating area, or the classic artwork collection?

How do you describe your design style or aesthetic?

I love a mixture of French, Parisian, and neoclassical styles. These influences create a sophisticated and timeless look that I adore.

Dinner Party Envy? Let's Steal Some Design Secrets from Nancy's Dining Room
This chic dining room features a long turned-leg wooden table covered in a crisp white
tablecloth flanked on both sides by upholstered chairs. An elegant iron and crystal
chandelier hangs over the seating area. A gilt framed mirror on the wall beyond the
table hangs above a styled sideboard. Other framed works of art and
a subtlypatterned area rug round out the overall design.

What are some things you always find yourself bidding upon in online auctions?

I am particularly drawn to French decor and furniture. The craftsmanship and elegance of these pieces are unmatched.

Mixed Materials Magic: The interplay of wood, marble, crystal, and
brass creates a visually stunning centerpiece on this table.
An elegant gilt carved table with a dark marble top showcases a beautiful display
of decorative items. The scene is bathed in natural light from nearby windows,
highlighting the rich details and luxurious feel of the setting.

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

My favorite pieces are my console tables and accent tables. They add both functionality and beauty to my home.

Peek into a life well-lived: This photo captures the little details that make a house a home.
An ornate French style side table provides a space for decor and function.
(Note the basket with rolled towels.)

What's your favorite Black Rock Galleries purchase?

I have not purchased anything from Black Rock Galleries yet, but I will be keeping an eye on a few items now!

Share a story about when you regretted not purchasing an item you saw at an estate sale – that missed opportunity that still lingers in your mind?

Oh, I regret not buying an art portrait and a buffet table at an estate sale. They were exquisite pieces, and I still think about them often.

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

The most unique item I’ve encountered was a really old classic car. It was a stunning piece of history.

Any tips or advice for online auction or estate sale newbies?

For estate sale newbies, do not wait for the last day hoping for a 50% discount. If you love an item, just get it. For online auctions, I have done a few and lost a few, so my advice is to keep a close eye on the bids and be ready to act.

What's your favorite element of Nancy's living room?
The cozy armchair, the grand fireplace, or something else entirely?

Nancy's journey and her curated collection offer valuable insights into how you can transform your home with carefully selected pieces that exude elegance and sophistication. Follow her at @ahomeforkeeps for more inspiration and tips on creating a beautiful home with standout pieces!

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Simply tag your photos with:

@blackrockgalleries and #myBRGstyle.