Image Credit: Grey Crawford courtesy of Massucco Warner
by CAROLINE BIGGS
Image Credit: Kristin Dion Design
Curious what types of housewares interior designers prefer to shop for secondhand? From bathroom vanity mirrors to artwork and more, designers say you should always at least consider buying these 10 big-ticket items used.
Image Credit: Marika Meyer Interiors
“Chairs can easily be reupholstered and updated with a fresh coat of paint. If you get lucky, you may not even need to purchase one,” says interior designer Marika Meyer.
Image Credit: The IT Factor Courtesy of Joy Street Design
“You can find dressers composed of quality woods with nice details like dovetail drawers and transform them into an entertainment center,” says Kelly Finley of Joy Street Design.
Image Credit: Stephani Buchman courtesy of Rebecca Hay Designs
An antique bathroom mirror is an eco-friendly way to upgrade a lackluster bathroom without any heavy lifting or spending, according to interior designer Rebecca Hay.
Image Credit: Maggie Griffin Design
“The more beat up, the better. A few nicks and scratches will make even the most conscientious guest reassured in putting their feet up on your coffee table at the end of the day," says interior designer Maggie Griffin.
Image Credit: Don Freeman courtesy of Jayne Design Studio
The best looking rugs are usually pretty pricey. That’s why shopping for vintage and antique rugs instead of mass produced, store-bought styles is a smart choice, according to William Cullum, senior designer at Jayne Design Studio.
Image Credit: Philip Harvey courtesy of Massucco Warner
“Vintage art is usually very well persevered and any local frame shop can swap out the frame to make it feel like new,” says Melissa Warner Rothblum of Massucco Warner.
Image Credit: Kristin Dion Design
“My favorite vintage purchase of all-time is a stool that can easily be moved around from room to room," says Kristin Dion of Kristin Dion Design,
Image Credit: Sean Litchfield courtesy of Becky Shea Design
Dining chairs are often a splurge because you need multiples, which is why interior designer Becky Shea suggests purchasing them secondhand.
Image Credit: Mike Chajecki courtesy of Rebecca Hay Designs
“Look for solid wood style versus veneer, so that you can re-finish and potentially re-stain it to fit the colors in your home," says Hay.
Image Credit: Grey Crawford courtesy of Massucco Warner
“Vintage sofas are easy to find in petite sizes as well as extra-long sizes. The trick is making sure it’s comfortable to actually sit in,” says Rothblum.