In the design world, there has been a fundamental and nearly universal shift toward an appreciation of history and a sense of place. Whether it’s through a book, a photograph, a resurrected paint pigment, or the practical need to restore an ancestral estate, preservation has become more than just a process; it’s also one of the most integral and exciting sources of inspiration for designers and design lovers alike.

On March 15th, we hosted a panel to discuss this concept of “Preservation as Inspiration” with four experts in the world of history and design: Winslow Hastie, CEO, Historic Charleston Foundation; Nick Ashley-Cooper, 12th Earl of Shaftesbury; Eve Ashcraft, Color Expert; and Steven Gambrel; Interior Designer.

Below, five lessons learned from our panelists:

‍

‍

1. Preservation is not just about the past; it is also firmly focused on present context and future expression.

2. Preservation starts now – when we save things, we are starting fresh.

‍

‍

3. Preservation provides multiple points of entry—books, tours, colors, experts.

‍

‍

4. Preservation defines a process not a precept (not a thing that you have to do before you do great design but rather the equally innovative lens that makes great design possible).

‍

‍

5. Preservation delivers inspiration. You can do great design work because of it, not despite it.

‍

‍

Head over to our Preservation as Inspiration page to listen to the full panel discussion — plus a behind-the-scenes look at all of our Charleston Antiques Show events!

‍