The 3 Places Designers Shop (Frequently), But Don’t Want You To Know!

The internet has completely changed the landscape of design on so many levels.  Being able to hunt for the perfect piece from dozens of retailers in one sitting has allowed us to expand our reach, and thus our vision as both consumers and designers, tremendously.  We are no longer limited by geography.

While at the Salon today, I was chatting up my stylist about the parallels of fashion, hair and home (see my posts here and here on this connection).  She was lamenting about how she was ready to redo her home and how hard it is to find good quality furniture.  I have this conversation (or some variation) on a weekly basis.  To which, I usually ask: “when was the last time you bought a sofa?”  The reply is always within the past 5-7 years.  My point being, we are such a disposable society that we no longer keep or pass down heirloom furniture.  We should not look for furniture that could survive a nuclear war, or that our kids will want 20 years from now.  Most of us will go through 2-4 major style changes throughout our adult life; therefore, it is just fiscally prudent to save on furniture and decorative items for your home.  The most successful and interesting design is ALWAYS done with a high/low mix.

In this powder room below, I used a wall paper that is insanely expensive, but the mirror is from PB Teen, and the agate art I actually made for about $60.

Below are the three stores designers can be found on a weekly basis:

  1.  IKEA – If I had a dollar for every time someone turned up his or her nose at the thought of purchasing anything from IKEA, I would be a rich, happy girl lounging poolside with my bestie (my beverage butler 🙂 While I don’t advocate outfitting one’s entire home in IKEA, there are undeniably stylish pieces and décor staples that I go back to over and over again.  I need to do an entire blog post on all of the IKEA hacks I’ve done that ALWAYS end in “I can’t believe that is from IKEA”.   The key to successfully using IKEA furniture is the way in which it is assembled.  Each piece has to be reinforced with screws, and the dowels (most pieces come with) must be glued in. This retailer is a great resource and should not be overlooked.  Here are some of my favorite pieces from this retailer.

The modern classic Tulip table, need I say more?

Pedestal table, DWR Pedestal table

This rug is ICONIC; so much so, that other companies knock off this design, repeatedly!!  It is also one of the most pinned rugs on pinterest!

$300 for an 8 x 12

IKEA Stockholm Rug

I have used the Besta Storage buffet (shown below) more times than I can count.  I’ve painted this piece (gray, black and left it white), added beautiful hardware and voila!…a really nice piece for an entryway, dining room or family room!

Besta Storage, brass pull

I LOVE this rug for a kid’s room!!!  Its color scheme is very versatile.

The other things I love to get at IKEA are towels, faux succulents and art.

towels, succulent, art

2.  ZARA HOME – We all know and love Zara’s clothing store.  I have two pairs of jeans I wear on repeat (seen here and here) both are from this retailer.  This fashion powerhouse defies all that we think we know about fashion.  This brand is known world wide and dictates almost every trend we see each season.  However, most people don’t know that they have a home division as well.  Zara Home has a very minimalist vibe that is big on style, but not on price.  Below are some great staples from this retailer.

decorative coral, WS Home Coral

Love this starburst mirror!  We have seen this classic shape done in metal many times, but this style done in a completely mirrored surface is a unique interpretation.  The beveled “rays” add a high end detail.  At this price, this mirror is a must have.

mirror

Some other great stapes: cabinet knobs, accent table, hotel bedding and stool.

Mother of Pearl knobs,Marble accent table, Hotel banded bedding, hammered stool

3.  World Market – You are guaranteed to find something at World Market.  It is extremely trend driven, so this is a great source if you want to update your home with on trend pieces.    I love their selection of outdoor furniture.  Outdoor furniture can be very expensive, and even if it’s kept covered, it still looks worn and faded after a few years.  World Market’s price point lets you get good looking furniture that you don’t have to feel bad about replacing in a few years. Below are some pieces that are a great find!

The French bistro chair is always a classic and can be used indoors or outdoors.  Serena and Lily has cornered the market on this chair; however, this piece from WM looks likes a pretty good dupe to me.

World Market Bistro Chair, Serena and Lily Bistro Chair

Sectional sofa, Stool, Adirondack chair, Wicker chair

Interior Design is really about creating a space that captures the spirit of those who inhabit it, while respecting the identity of the space itself.  I love the quote by William Morris, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”.  If you adhere to this, you will never go wrong.

I would love to hear about your secret sources, or the stores that you know will always have what you need.  Also, let me know what you want to read more about!

Happy Weekend!!!

XO

Laurie