We're almost embarressed to say that we JUST discovered this amazing resource we have to show you today. We don't feel too bad though---the owner told us her business is one of Austin's best kept secrets (due to the fact that most people want to guard this secret for themselves!) Well, we're spilling the beans today, and the best part: it's something that everyone---not just Austin residents---can enjoy! What is it? Read on to find out!
Owner Elle Greene started Austin Modern as a physical storefront in 2003, lending her amazing eye to finding the funkiest and coolest Mid-Century modern furniture, lighting, art and accessories. She started her website a year after the storefront opened, and while business was good, she began to realize that many of her best customers weren't from Austin at all. So, with the recession taking a hold on the nation, she went completely online in 2008, and she says its the best decision she's ever made!
Block off at least an hour or two to spend time looking through this website; you're going to love pretty much everything you see. And, luckily for all of us, the prices are very reasonable (seriously!). If you live in Austin, you can call for an appointment to check out items from their warehouse in person along with shopping online. If you did decide to buy from Austin Modern, you'd join a long list of clients that include architects and interior designers in cities like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago and even famous designers like Jonathan Adler. And while they don't offer interior design services, Elle does share her expertise in the form of local lectures, her most recent on decorating with Mid-Century Modern.
The Austin Modern's website is usually updated every Sunday, so check back often to stay on top of the newest and best deals. And if you're in Austin, give Elle a call to see some of these great items in person!
What do you think about Austin Modern? Did you already know about this secret and are now mad that we told everyone? Let us know!
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
Cool site but I don't think I'd describe the prices as reasonable. Yikes!
view ShopgirlCA's profile
In New Orleans, check out Neophobia, on Magazine Street.
It consistently has great finds!
http://neophobia-nola.com
view JWet's profile
I love that monkey table! Nice stuff.
view copelli21's profile
I love Elle's shop! We have some artwork from her shop hanging in the house. It was always a pleasure to visit her shop... friendly service and great insight into the Austin vintage scene.
view rainylakechick's profile
I agree with ShopgirlCA...these prices are hardly reasonable!
view suzy8track's profile
For those new to Austin or looking to visit, Homegirls is another amazing Austin store:
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/la/at-austin/austin-store-homegirlsaustin-texas-055759
view nmckinney's profile
Elle has unbelievable merchandise. Not only does she have a good eye, she's got the training and knowledge to back it up. If you're looking for the "real deal", are a serious collector or just appreciate quality, her prices are really reasonable. If you are just after the "look" or the "in" style of the moment, you can find better prices for sure. Target or Ikea offer items with the "look of" or "in the style of" for cheap. Granted, the stuff won't last too long and has no real investment value, but if you're going for a look rather than having a true passion for, you are better off shopping there.
Having had the opportunity to see Elle's treasures in person, and seeing mass produced copied pieces, even from the same time period, there is a world of difference. That's where the passion and true appreciation for a designer or artisan enters into the mix, you not only see, you feel the difference. Try to buy any of Elle's pieces off a showroom floor in NY or LA - then you'll realize how great a deal you're getting on her website.
view myshabbichic's profile
Hello - Elle Here!
Thank you all for your comments! I'm excited to be featured on A.T. this is such a lovely site!
There's room in this world for a variety of price points, Austin Modern works within a niche market. I'm thrilled that even the posters who think we're outside of the range of "affordable" would like to be part of our mailing list!
Thanks to you posters for taking the time to post your thoughts and opinions. I'm just glad to have been included on one of my favorite sites!
view Austinmodern's profile