Have you ever wondered how to incorporate antiques and traditional furniture into a modern home? Mixing old-world charm with contemporary aesthetics can feel like a daunting task, but when done right, it creates a home that feels warm, layered, and truly unique. According to industry expert Anita Vreeland, the key is balance and intention.
Carrying on her father’s company, Englishman’s Fine Furnishings, Anita Vreeland—along with her brother-in-law Kevin Bates and a trusted longtime team—has spent her career helping homeowners and designers seamlessly blend timeless elegance with modern sensibilities. With a background in interior design and a deep understanding of European craftsmanship, she brings an expert eye to every space she touches.
Anita’s journey in the world of fine furnishings began long before she joined the family business. Growing up in England in her father’s antiques shop, she enjoyed examining every piece he brought home and riding in the box truck with him to acquire more treasures. In 1981, her father, Michael Howarth, decided the family would emigrate from England to Atlanta, bringing with him a passion for antique furniture and a commitment to quality. Initially part of a furniture import business, he quickly gained a reputation as "The Englishman" in the local industry. When the economy shifted in 1991, he forged his own path, founding Englishman’s Fine Furnishings in Smyrna the following year. The store has since become a trusted destination for those seeking timeless craftsmanship and authentic European design.
For those looking to introduce antiques into a contemporary space, Anita offers practical advice: "Your home is an artistic expression of who you are. Mixing in vintage and traditional pieces can add warmth, depth, and personality." A carefully chosen antique table can anchor a modern dining room, while a collection of blue-and-white plates can add a classic touch to an otherwise minimalist wall. She emphasizes that antiques need not be intimidating; rather, they should be seen as an opportunity to infuse a home with character and history.
Englishman’s Fine Furnishings makes this blending of styles accessible, whether customers are searching for a statement piece or a full-home transformation. The store sources antiques and vintage items directly from dealers and pickers in England, ensuring authenticity and quality. Additionally, their custom furniture service allows clients to design pieces that fit their exact specifications. "A huge part of our business is custom furniture," Anita explains. "If someone has a specific piece in mind but can’t find it in the size or finish they want, we make it happen." The customization process is highly collaborative, ensuring that each piece reflects the client’s vision while maintaining the timeless quality that Englishman’s is known for.
Beyond its extensive collection, Englishman’s prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere. Unlike traditional retail environments, there’s no pressure or commission-based selling. Customers are encouraged to take their time, explore, and ask questions. The team—all of whom have been with Englishman’s for decades—is passionate about helping homeowners find pieces that will become cherished parts of their lives. In addition to working with individual homeowners, Englishman’s also partners with interior designers seeking unique, high-quality furnishings for their clients.
Located in the heart of Smyrna Vinings, Englishman’s Fine Furnishings is perfectly situated in a community that values both tradition and innovation. "The homes here are as eclectic as the people," Anita says. "We fit right in." The store attracts customers from across Georgia and beyond, with many traveling from neighboring states to experience its curated selection firsthand. Whether it’s a couple moving into their first home or a seasoned collector searching for the perfect statement piece, Englishman’s offers something for everyone.
Among the most sought-after pieces are Englishman’s dining tables. "Dining tables are our most popular item," Anita shares. "The classic farmhouse tapered leg table and our round extended tables are customer favorites." These timeless pieces are designed not just for beauty but for function—serving as the heart of the home where families gather and create lasting memories. She points out that these tables are built to last for generations, making them not just a purchase but an investment in the future.
In addition to furniture, Englishman’s also carries a variety of decorative accents, from artwork to candlesticks to classic blue-and-white ceramics. These smaller details allow customers to introduce European charm into their homes without committing to larger pieces. "Sometimes, just a single decorative item can shift the entire feel of a space," Anita notes.
For those new to the world of antiques, Anita encourages an open mind and a sense of adventure. "Don’t be afraid to mix styles," she advises. "Start with one or two key pieces, and build around them. A home should evolve over time—it’s about creating a space that reflects your story." She suggests that homeowners begin by selecting an antique piece they truly love, rather than worrying about whether it will "match" their existing décor. Often, these pieces become the heart of a room, naturally influencing other design choices in a harmonious way.
Stepping into Englishman’s Fine Furnishings isn’t just about shopping; it’s about inspiration, education, and a deep appreciation for the artistry of fine furniture. Whether you're drawn to the romance of antiques, the craftsmanship of custom-made pieces, or simply the warmth of a well-designed home, the Englishman’s team is ready to guide you every step of the way. With their expertise and commitment to quality, they make it easy to bring the elegance of European design into any space, creating homes that are as welcoming as they are beautiful.
Englishman's Fine Furnishings
4880 S. Atlanta Road SE; Atlanta, GA 30339
(404) 35-4464
EnglishmansFurniture.com
"Your home should tell your story—mixing antiques with modern pieces creates warmth, depth, and timeless character."