Q. My mom and dad are moving into a small condo and have lots of furniture they bought in the 1960’s, as well as pieces from my grandparents. I know “Mid Century Modern” is in and selling for high prices but I feel guilty selling it. I know my parents would like to see me appreciate it like they did but after looking at it in my parents house for so many years, I am having a hard time visualizing how it would look in my house. Any suggestions?

A. A majority of the antiques market is in a bit of a slump right now due to the market being flooded with objects from your parents and grandparents. Younger people are not interested in antiques and do not have a strong tie to family heirlooms. Styles and trends come and go. I am sure many would never have believed that the furniture from the 1960’s and 1970’s would ever come back.

There are many pieces from this period that are really transitional pieces which can easily mix with other styles and periods. They have simple lines and are unfussy. Particular manufacturers are worth holding on to because they are considered classics, made well and of high quality materials. Some names are Knoll, Dunbar, Baker, Brown Saltman Widdicomb and others. Try to find a manufacturer’s label and identify who made it. Pieces made of solid wood, brass, bronze and other high end materials transcend time.

Regarding other older dark finished furniture, the definition of an antique is when something is over 100 years old. Just because it is old does not mean it is valuable. There is a lot of mass produced dark stained furniture that has very little value in today’s market. These pieces are ok to go ahead and paint, stain or refinish. Reupholster and take off the skirt on Granny’s wing chair and you may just fall in love with it (and will still keep your memories of her sitting in it intact). You may have some twin headboards that you slept in when you were a kid but if you put the two together and make some adjustments, it may become the king-sized headboard you’ve been looking for.

Using a piece in a new way can make it fit. The big old armoire may become the coat closet that you lack in the front hall. A small low dresser could become a nightstand or an end table. Take the glass off of the 1960’s coffee table and put another top on it. Sometimes just changing the hardware can be all that is needed. There are ideas everywhere from magazines and websites like pininterest.com which can give you some inspiration.

Karen Waterman is a fine art, antique furniture and decorative arts appraiser in the East Bay area and will answer as many questions regarding your “hidden treasures” as possible. By sending a letter or email with a question you give full permission for use in the column. Names, addresses or e-mail will not be published and photos will be returned if requested. Send e-mails (digital photos preferred ) to watermanappraisal@gmail.com. Send snail mail to Waterman Appraisal and Consulting Services, PO Box 134, Barrington, RI 02806.