5 IDEAS: What Designers always buy in Antique Stores

I believe that antiquing should be made an Olympic event, with those of us dedicated to the “sport” recognized as trained professionals who eat sleep and dream about our next conquest. The thing that keeps me coming back is that unexpected item, but there are always a few things that I am on the lookout for that, if I see, I will usually pick up.

1. An unusual chair.

Almost any space has room for just one more piece, and I think that the more unusual it is, the better. I have bought chairs made of old saddles pieced together, or walking sticks, or even sculptural chairs from Africa—any of these are great additions. I have one next to my bathtub holding fresh towels stacked with books, or I like one next to a bed as an additional space for magazines. What I’m trying to say is that there are lots of uses for them other than just sitting of course!

2. I am a passionate baker, so I am always on the lookout for unusual baking items.

Cookie cutters, cake tins and even old earthenware mixing bowls are usually great finds. Nothing against new pieces, but I really love the feel of working with pieces that have a history, it makes me feel connected to the tradition of baking.

3. Weird small objects that I can make into a lamp.

Most of the rooms I design will have one or two weird little pieces in them that may give you pause. Often it will be an object that I have found and made into a simple lamp. If you like this idea, look for old money boxes, toys (I once made a fabulous lamp out of an antique ferris wheel) or look for architectural models if you want something a bit more sophisticated.

4. Vintage architectural elements.

For better or for worse, in southern California, our old vintage buildings are torn down quite regularly, and it can lead to a treasure trove of old architectural decoration at some of the dealers. Whether it’s carved stone, concrete precast or even glazed terracotta, these pieces are fantastic for the garden. I love to have a few ruins, strewn through through my garden beds, as it gives a cool sense of age, like we have planted on top of an old architectural dig.

5. Glass jars.

It is well known that I am a candle fanatic. During the holidays my whole house, inside and out, is usually lit with candles, so I love to have selections of cool old glass jars around to put my candles in. If the jar is big, I will put a selection of different sizes, and smaller ones will have just a single votive. Try adding a couple of scented ones, particularly outside where it can add to the natural fragrance of your garden.