Why Modern Spaces Crave Meaning
In a world flooded with fast trends and disposable decor, modern homeowners and interior designers are increasingly drawn to pieces with depth, emotion, and meaning. The era of fast furniture is waning, and in its place rises a new philosophy: intentional living—where every object tells a story. And among the most powerful storytellers? Original vintage photographs, presented in handcrafted, ethically sourced exotic wood frames.
At i deserve nice things, we transform forgotten photographic artifacts into legacy art pieces for the contemporary home. No prints. No copies. Just real history, thoughtfully upcycled into heirloom-quality wall art.
The Emotional Weight of Vintage Photography
Unlike mass-produced artwork, vintage photographs carry a sense of soul. They whisper stories of people long gone, relationships forgotten, and lives lived in a different time. Their mystery invites us to wonder. To connect. To reflect. And in doing so, they transform sterile modern interiors into spaces rich with narrative, texture, and feeling.
Every photo in our collection is an original artifact, carefully sourced from flea markets, estate sales, and antique dealers across the globe. We don’t touch them up or digitize them—we preserve their scratches, their edges, their truth. Because in a world of over-editing and perfection, authenticity resonates.
Where Emotion Meets Craftsmanship
Each image we find is elevated by a handcrafted frame made from exotic hardwoods like Wenge, Merbau, Jatoba, and Tigerwood. Designed and built by founder and artist Matthew Dols in our Prague studio, every frame is unique and made to highlight the image’s emotion and era.
This is what makes our work more than decor—it’s emotionally resonant design. The frame and photo become one object: a piece of living history suited for modern, mid-century, rustic, or minimalist interiors.
The Rise of Slow Decor and Sustainable Design
As the world moves toward more sustainable lifestyles, the trend of slow decor is gaining momentum. More buyers are asking, "Where did this come from? Who made it? What’s the story behind it?" These questions guide them to brands like i deserve nice things.
We create with intention: our materials are ethically sourced or reclaimed, our pieces are made by hand, and our entire philosophy is rooted in preserving beauty and memory—not replicating it.
Why Vintage Photography Works in Modern Interiors
- Contrast & Depth: A vintage black-and-white photo adds striking contrast to modern white walls and clean lines.
- Texture & Tone: The grain of exotic hardwood frames introduces organic texture that softens sleek or industrial spaces.
- Conversation Starter: Guests are naturally drawn to ask, "Who is that?" or "Where’s this from?"—sparking meaningful dialogue.
- Timelessness: These images don’t follow a trend cycle. They outlast them.
Designers Love the Unexpected Character
Interior designers are increasingly seeking out art that makes a statement—not through scale or color, but through emotion. Our customers include stylists, collectors, and architects who want something that breaks from the ordinary. Something with history. Our pieces help ground spaces, layer in nostalgia, and connect people to the human experience.
Testimonials from Buyers
“Every piece I buy from i deserve nice things tells a different story. The Merbau wood frame is stunning, and the photo feels deeply personal even though I don’t know the person.” – Clara, Stockholm
“This is art with soul. The frame is so beautifully made it almost feels like sculpture. It changed the whole mood of my living room.” – Julian, New York City
How to Bring Meaningful Art Into Your Space
- Start with the Emotion: Choose a piece that evokes a feeling—nostalgia, romance, wonder, quiet strength.
- Let It Lead: Use it as the emotional anchor of a gallery wall or as a standalone piece to create focus.
- Layer in Textures: Our wood frames pair beautifully with linen, velvet, leather, and vintage rugs.
- Honor the Story: Let the piece’s mystery remain part of your home’s evolving narrative.
Ready to Invest in Legacy?
Unlike posters or prints, each of our framed vintage photographs is a one-of-a-kind object. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. When you purchase from i deserve nice things, you're not just buying decor—you’re investing in history, art, and timeless design.
Every purchase supports small-batch artisanship, sustainable sourcing, and a deeper philosophy of what home can mean. Browse the full collection today and find the image that speaks to your soul.
Final Thoughts
In an age where interiors are often curated for social media, it’s refreshing—and necessary—to return to what matters: meaning. Vintage photography connects us to the past while grounding us in the present. It asks us to feel, to wonder, and to remember that beauty isn’t always new. Sometimes, the most powerful object in a room is the one with the deepest story.
You deserve nice things. So do the stories we carry with us.