Unearthing Stories & Hidden Treasures: Auction Event at Riverstone

Guests at Riverstone Fulham, Riverstone Kensington, and the Bishops Avenue Marketing Suite recently stepped into the fascinating world of antiques with renowned auctioneer Thomas Forrester, known from BBC’s Bargain Hunt, and his business partner, Neil Shuttleworth. More than just a glimpse into rare collectibles, the event was an afternoon of fascinating insights from the world of antiques. 

From cherished family heirlooms to unexpected treasures, each item carried a story, and as valuations unfolded, so did the fascinating journey behind them. 

An Afternoon of Discovery 

With a career spanning decades and numerous televised auctions, the duo captivated guests with their deep knowledge of antiques and the ever-changing market. From mid-century modern designs to overlooked collectibles that hold surprising value, their insights offered a fresh perspective on the evolving world of auctions. 

One recurring theme was the shift in taste—while Victorian furniture once dominated the market, today’s collectors seek out unique, well-crafted, and storied pieces, often favouring items from the 20th century, especially those with prominent designers behind them, are particularly sought after which recapped that value is not always about age or grandeur but about craftsmanship, provenance, and, sometimes, sheer serendipity. 

Hidden Value in Plain Sight 

One particularly intriguing story Thomas shared was about a couple who had lived in their home for decades and, when preparing to downsize, unearthed a pair of seemingly ordinary chairs. Despite extensive woodworm damage, the chairs turned out to be from the 18th century and fetched an impressive sum at auction—an astonishing token on what may appear ordinary can, in fact, be extraordinary. 

Guests were particularly captivated by the tale of a unique camera designed for game hunting photography in the 1920s. Initially valued modestly, it eventually sold for a staggering £150,000, thanks to its rarity and historical significance. 

The 4 D’s 

Beyond the thrill of valuations, they also spoke about the key reasons people seek their expertise – the 4 D’s”: Death, Divorce, Debt, and Downsizing.  

When it comes to downsizing, it’s not simply about reducing possessions; it’s about creating a living space that aligns with how life evolves. A couple Thomas worked with once shared their personal journey of decluttering—what started as a difficult process of parting with possessions turned into a revelation that “less is more.” They found a renewed sense of freedom in selecting only the pieces that truly held meaning, creating a space that reflected their current lifestyle rather than their past. 

Over Afternoon Tea 

Thomas and Neil mingled with guests and residents, offering them personal valuations of the collectibles they brought in for the occasion. Adding a personal touch, Thomas signed a copy of The Bargain Hunt Spotter’s Guide to Antiques, now proudly displayed in Riverstone’s resident libraries—a lasting memento of an unforgettable afternoon.