Josh Brolin’s kitchen shelves feature an unexpected antique twist – now I’m tempted to display vintage frames among my teacups

The actor's kitchen is mostly modern; however, he adds visual interest to his standard wood shelves with the addition of antique, framed paintings

Josh Brolin
(Image credit: Photo by Joe Maher/Getty Images)

When in doubt, antiques add personality to just about any space, from ultra-modern to super minimal. While they often accent spaces like living rooms and bedrooms, Josh Brolin makes the case for antiques in the kitchen with his farmhouse-inspired room.

The Pierce and Ward-designed kitchen features marbled counters and backsplashes, simple, wooden floating shelves, and a classic, white ceramic farmhouse sink. However, it' the antique, framed paintings sitting on the shelves that caught our eyes.

Rather than hanging these pieces on the wall in a traditional fashion, they are placed on the shelves among teacups, bowls, and flowering plants, bringing a unique twist to the typical kitchen shelf. It certainly makes the case for decorating with antiques, particularly in the kitchen.

Shop the antique kitchen decor edit

If you want to follow in Josh's footsteps, interior design experts recommend being very discerning when shopping for pieces, looking at how long they will last, and what care might be required.

'When sourcing, focus not just on the age but on the craftsmanship and condition,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein.

'Look for intricate details that showcase skilled artistry because these are hallmarks of quality antiques. Don’t hesitate to ask about the history of the piece; sometimes the story behind an item is as valuable as the object itself.'

She says that opting for specific materials is a good idea, as some have more longevity than others.

'Choosing the right material also depends on your lifestyle and space. For high-traffic areas, sturdier materials like bronze or marble are practical, whereas porcelain and wood are better suited for curated, low-risk spots.'

We can see why brass frames would be a safe option for a spot like a kitchen shelf, where they are surrounded by delicate ceramics and porcelain.


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Hannah Ziegler
News Editor

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.

Her love of film is rivaled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.

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