5 Home Decor Pieces Designers Always Wait to Buy on Sale, Even for Their Fanciest Clients

Garage sales offer a unique opportunity to find distinctive and affordable items that can elevate home decor, a practice embraced by interior designers for both personal spaces and high-end client projects. Designers frequently scour these sales for specific categories of items that provide character, history, and a curated aesthetic that mass-produced goods often lack. These finds are not just cost-effective but also enable the creation of personalized and sophisticated interiors. Vintage frames are a top recommendation from designers like Danielle Chiprut. These frames, especially gilded and carved wood ones, can instantly add character to a space. They can house new artwork, become part of a gallery wall, or even stand alone as sculptural elements. Chiprut emphasizes their role in seamlessly blending old and new elements in a thoughtful and refined manner, making them a staple for adding a touch of timeless elegance without a significant investment. Artwork is another highly sought-after item at garage sales. Natalie Papier highlights the ease of acquiring unique art pieces, while Noel Gatts advises choosing art that personally resonates, regardless of its perceived monetary value. Gatts also points out the potential to discover valuable, signed original pieces. Even if the art isn't perfect, designers note that elements like matting or framing can be easily updated, transforming a garage sale find into a cherished display piece. The personal connection to the art makes it invaluable for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ceramic vessels, encompassing pottery, ceramics, and bud vases, are favored for their ability to add warmth and patina to a room. Chiprut suggests using these items in various ways, such as bookshelf decor, filled with flowers on a coffee table, or as stylish catchalls. These unique pieces stand in contrast to generic, mass-produced decor, injecting a sense of individuality and history into a living space, contributing to a layered and interesting interior. Glassware, including depression glass, milk glass, or crystal pieces, is another category that designers like Gatts actively seek out. These items are often used to style cabinets, tables, and consoles, adding a delicate touch of vintage charm. Beyond decorative purposes, garage sales are excellent sources for utilitarian glassware, such as dessert plates, teacups, saucers, and mixing bowls, offering functional elegance at a fraction of the retail price. These pieces can be integrated into daily use, enhancing the dining experience and contributing to the home's overall aesthetic. Finally, vintage books are prized for both their content and their decorative potential. Gatts suggests selecting books based on their color palette to complement a room's design, using them to create attractive stacks on tabletops or to fill shelves, thereby adding character and a sense of erudition to a space. However, a practical consideration is to check for musty odors before purchasing, ensuring that these charming additions enhance rather than detract from the home environment. These five categories demonstrate how thoughtful thrifting can lead to sophisticated and personalized home interiors. #GarageSaleFinds #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #VintageFrames #Artwork #CeramicVessels #Glassware #VintageBooks #ThriftingTips

This article highlights five specific home decor brands that interior designers actively seek out when thrifting, offering insights into why these items are valuable and how they can be incorporated into home aesthetics. The recommendations come from experienced designers Anne Coyle, Meghan Jay, and Leah Bolger, providing practical advice for secondhand shoppers aiming to find unique and high-quality pieces. Wedgwood Jasperware is identified as a top pick by Anne Coyle, who praises its classical form, utility, and aesthetic versatility. Created in 1774, this unglazed stoneware is known for its pastel shades, with royal blue being the most iconic. However, Coyle advises looking for less common colors like celadon, lilac, and basalt black. She emphasizes that Jasperware pieces, even if small, can serve as thoughtful gifts or decorative accents, such as canisters for tea sachets or trinket trays paired with hand soap. Waterford Crystal is another brand Coyle recommends for thrifting, particularly at auctions and estate sales. She values Waterford for its exceptional quality and beauty, noting the diverse patterns that reflect light uniquely. Coyle suggests that mixing and matching different Waterford patterns can create a more interesting tablescape, drawing from her personal experience of replacing broken pieces with varied designs over time. Meghan Jay encourages shoppers not to overlook vintage fabrics, which can be found as surplus material, tablecloths, napkins, or even clothing. She advocates for repurposing these textiles into DIY home decor items like pillows, chair cushions, or cafe curtains, transforming them into unique accents with a bit of creativity. Murano Glass, recognized for its vibrant colors and sculptural qualities, is a brand Meghan Jay seeks out. Despite its prestigious reputation, she maintains an optimistic view on finding Murano pieces at thrift stores. While large items like chandeliers are rare, smaller decorative bowls and paperweights are more commonly available, offering an opportunity to acquire a piece of this renowned Italian craftsmanship. Leah Bolger consistently looks for Rosenthal plates, appreciating them not just as dinnerware but as small art pieces that can add culture and vibrancy to any space. She suggests framing them as wall art, displaying them on open shelving, or using them as decorative elements in the kitchen. Rosenthal, a German porcelain manufacturer, has a wide range of styles, from traditional to mid-century modern, making them suitable for various decor preferences. Bolger specifically mentions seeking out pop art-inspired plates, including those designed by Roy Lichtenstein in the 1980s, highlighting the blend of nostalgia and modernity these items can bring to a home. #HomeDecor #Thrifting #VintageHome #InteriorDesign #SecondhandShopping #DesignerTips #WedgwoodJasperware #WaterfordCrystal #MuranoGlass #RosenthalPlates

This article explores the favorite home items of various interior designers, offering insights into products they would repeatedly purchase and tips on how to incorporate them into personal living spaces. Kimberly Bevan from Bevan Interiors highlights the Design Within Reach Rice Paper Shade, praising its ambient glow, large-scale buoyancy despite its size, and versatility across modern and traditional settings, all at an accessible price point. She advises light feather dusting for maintenance. Emily Vaughan of Emily Vaughan Interiors recommends the BlueStar Range, a professional-grade appliance acquired during a 1952 home renovation. She values its open burners for even high-temperature cooking, easy-to-clean cast iron cooktop, and capacity for two full-size sheet pans, noting that colorful appliance options could enhance cohesion in a kitchen. Shelagh Conway from Triple Heart Design values the Maison Distressed Black Oak 4-Door Buffet Sideboard as a substantial dresser that provides a grounding element in her large bedroom, adapting to various design changes. She suggests embracing black in bedrooms for a calming effect, often mixing it with other wood tones for textural depth. Byron Risdon of Byron Risdon Interior Design Studio endorses West Elm Luxe Chenille Throws for their softness, luxury, and durability, making them suitable for both guests and daily use. He looks for comfort, softness, and durability in throws, suggesting a size that covers the body without being overly large. Ariel Richardson, lead designer at ASR Design Studio, praises the Miele Washer and Dryer for its compact, stackable design, efficient cleaning cartridges, and ventless drying technology, which allows for flexible placement. She emphasizes the environmental and clothing benefits of front-load washers. Tamara Honey of House of Honey finds the Disco Ball to be an instant mood transformer, recommending its placement near a window to enhance the magical effect of glimmering lights. Aimee Meisgeier from AM Interior Design favors the Beta Modular Sofa for its deep comfort, modular customization, and corduroy fabric, which is both cozy and practical for pet owners. She advises measuring the space and defining needs before purchasing a modular sofa. Linette Dai of Linette Dai Design cherishes the CB2 Muse Smoked Coupe Glass for its chic design and modern aesthetic, using it for both cocktails and sparkling water. She suggests pairing coupe glasses with bite-sized snacks in sculptural dishes. She also appreciates the CB2 Suspend Walnut & Marble Media Console for its natural elements, beautiful walnut veneer, marble top, and practical storage. She advocates for minimalist styling of console tops with essential, functional decor. Azali Kassum of Azali Kassum Design collects Victoria Morris's ceramics, specifically the Large Gourd Vase in Ivory, for its unique handmade flair and sculptural elegance. She advises hand-washing ceramics with gentle soap and air-drying in the sun. Gina Gutierrez from Gina Rachelle Design recommends the Joss & Main Tellis Marble Picture Frame for its classic and timeless appeal, versatility in size and finish, and ability to fill empty spaces. She applies the “rule of three” for styling. Sarah Rinehart Fleischer of SRF Interiors finds joy in Dana Bell's painting, “Dancing on Yellow, 2001,” for its bold colors and perfect fit in an awkward wall space. She suggests keeping room measurements handy for online art purchases. Lorna Gross, CEO of LORNA GROSS Interior Design, finds the Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Home Scented Candle to be a constant source of calm. She advises keeping candle lids on to prevent dust and burn marks, and lighting kitchen candles after meals. Nadia Watts of Nadia Watts Interior Design highlights the Kartell Pilastro Stool for its unique lines, interesting shape, and multi-functional use as a side table, footstool, or extra seating. She prefers furniture that is both artistic and functional. Brianna Untener of Brianna Scott Interiors loves the Serena & Lily Milo Alpaca Throw for its softness, luxury, and year-round coziness. She prefers displaying throws on chairs to visually unify a room. Shauna Glenn of Shauna Glenn Design trusts the Annie Selke Paint Chip Multi Hand Micro-Hooked Wool Rug for its durability in high-traffic areas and ease of cleaning. She emphasizes regular vacuuming and shaking of wool rugs. Joni Burden of J. Banks Design favors the Gabby Laura Swivel Chair for its timeless elegance, compact size, comfort, and versatility. She appreciates swivel chairs in family rooms for their adaptability. Isabel Ladd of Isabel Ladd Interiors consistently uses Palmer Green Paint by Benjamin Moore, describing it as a deep, rich green with yellow undertones that acts as a neutral in maximalist aesthetics. She recommends using tinted primer and considering the desired ambiance when choosing green paint. Ariel Richardson also champions Ruggable Rugs for their durability, washability, and stain-repelling properties, making them ideal for households with pets and children. She advises washing on a delicate cycle with cold water and low heat drying. Abby Gruman of Abby Leigh Designs chose the Artistic Frame Studio Side Chair for its cane and wood contrast, modern flair, and traditional essence, valuing it for family gatherings. She notes the current trend of cane in unexpected furniture pieces. Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors transformed her family room with Phillip Jeffries 9190: Beat Wallpaper, creating a living mural that unifies the space and encourages creative endeavors. She suggests regular dusting and occasional wiping for wallpaper maintenance. Alex Yeske of Alex Yeske Interiors appreciates The Rush House Original Rug, a natural fiber seagrass rug, for its warmth, texture, softness, and customizable, replaceable squares. She recommends vacuuming on a lighter setting and blotting stains for natural fiber rugs. Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio values the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine for its combination of functionality and quality, including an integrated burr grinder and steam wand. She suggests creating a dedicated coffee station. Paige Blodgett Scher of Paige Blodgett Interiors painted her entryway with Bancha Paint by Farrow & Ball to define and warm the small space, praising its yellow undertones and dramatic effect. She advises choosing darker shades to add depth to small areas. Cynthia Lananh of Cynthia Lananh treasures the Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle for its neutral, sophisticated scent and elevated packaging. She suggests pairing candles with design-savvy accessories. Brittany Hakimfar of Far Studio considers the Zip Water HydroTap Celsius All-in-One Water Filter Faucet her most beloved appliance for its instant still, sparkling, hot, and cold water delivery in luxurious finishes. She recommends classic chrome or matte black for contemporary kitchens and living brass for traditional ones. Finally, Lina Galvão of Curated Nest loves the Scout Design Studio Promenade Sofa for its approachable style, sculptural arms, comfort, and forgiving fabric. She notes that for modern, sculptural sofas, one might forgo pillows to let the shape shine. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerPicks #HomeFurnishings #DecoratingTips #ApplianceRecommendations #Textiles #ArtAndAccessories #PaintColors

When selecting artwork for a home, the process can initially seem overwhelming given the myriad of options, from prints and posters to original pieces. However, interior design experts emphasize that choosing art should be an enjoyable and straightforward experience. This guide distills professional advice into five key considerations, helping individuals make informed decisions regardless of their budget or prior experience with art acquisition. The first critical step involves reflecting on the desired ambiance of a room. Art is inherently subjective, meaning there is no right or wrong choice, as long as it resonates personally and evokes positive feelings. However, for those seeking direction, considering whether the space should feel sophisticated, cozy, dramatic, soothing, or perhaps evoke a specific geographic location, can guide art selection. Art serves as a powerful tool to establish or enhance a particular mood, transforming a room’s character. Secondly, the existing color palette of a room plays a significant role in determining suitable artwork. One approach is to select art that harmonizes with the present hues in the decor and furnishings, creating a cohesive look. Alternatively, for those aiming to create a focal point or a statement piece, consulting a color wheel to identify complementary colors can yield striking results, such as pairing orange with blue or red with green. This strategic use of color ensures the artwork integrates seamlessly or stands out purposefully within the overall design. Scale and positioning are paramount to how artwork is perceived in a space. It is crucial to choose pieces that are appropriately sized for their intended wall. A large piece on a small wall can make the space feel cramped, while small art on a large wall can appear lost and unanchored. Furthermore, proper positioning, especially considering sight lines, is essential for optimal visual impact. Thoughtful placement ensures the artwork is effectively showcased and contributes positively to the room's aesthetic flow. Budgetary considerations are another practical aspect. Artwork prices vary widely, and it is important to factor in potential hidden costs such as sales tax, shipping fees (particularly for out-of-state purchases), or auction house charges. Additionally, many pieces, regardless of their initial cost, will require custom framing, which can add substantially to the overall expense. Obtaining quotes from frame shops beforehand is advisable. For those on a tighter budget or just starting their collection, experts suggest beginning with smaller, original studies from favorite artists, which can be surprisingly affordable. Posters and prints also offer more budget-friendly options. When opting for prints, a strategy could be to acquire high-edition, lower-value prints from renowned artists, or low-edition, affordable prints from emerging artists. Finally, the practical aspect of hanging the art should not be overlooked. Once artwork is acquired, it should be framed and hung promptly. This not only protects the piece from potential damage but also allows it to immediately fulfill its decorative purpose. Utilizing sturdy art hanging hooks instead of simple nails is recommended to ensure stability and security. By adhering to these five guidelines, individuals can confidently approach the task of selecting and displaying artwork, transforming their living spaces with pieces that are both visually appealing and personally meaningful. #ArtworkSelection #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtBuyingTips #RoomAmbiance #ColorPalette #ScaleAndPositioning #ArtBudgeting #FramingArt