5 Hidden Gems Interior Designers Always Look for at Thrift Stores

Art

Looking to find art at a great price? Designer Caroline Kopp suggests starting at your local thrift shop. “Finding a cool painting that speaks to me in a thrift shop is a home run,” she says. “You can find lots of decorative value there, especially if the piece is already framed. This is also a great place to pick up random pieces to fill out a gallery wall. Having vintage items in that mix takes it to another level.”

But keep in mind, not all art is created equal. Designer Suzanne Barrow recommends inspecting any piece you’re considering so you know it’s an original. While this is easier with unframed paintings, it can be a little tricky for framed ones. “Though it can be hard to tell if a piece is an original when it’s behind glass, the brushstrokes are a good indicator,” she says. “Does the piece have brushstrokes and, more importantly, do the brushstrokes match the artwork?”

Don’t forget to check for the artist’s signature. “Is the artist’s signature printed, or can you see an indent or texture from a pencil or paint?” says Barrow. “This can be evidence that the piece was truly signed by the artist and may be an original.”

Still, if the piece is inexpensive and you like it, don’t hesitate to bring it home. If it’s the right thing for you, it doesn’t really matter if it’s the real thing. 

Mirrors

Adding a mirror instantly makes a room look larger and brighter. But old and new, mirrors can be pricy. So it’s worth searching your local thrift store to see if you can find one that will add charm. “I collect mirrors, and I believe any room can benefit from having at least one mirror,” explains Kopp. “Older mirrors will have interesting imperfections in the mirror surface—this is real antiqued mirror, not the fake stuff, and something that is very sought after.”

Lamps

Vintage lighting can be a chic touch in just about every space. “Lamps are amazing fixtures of any room and can instantly add so much flair to your space,” shares Morgan Blinn of Rumor Designs. “Plus, lamps are super easy to refresh—simply pick a new lampshade and pop it on top for a whole new light.”

According to Autumn Pochir of Autumn Dawn Design, your local thrift store could even have a lamp for a few dollars that would normally cost hundreds at a more curated antique shop. “You might find a rare Tiffany lamp worth a substantial amount,” she says.

No matter what kind of lighting you find, it’s crucial to check that it’s in good working order. Be sure to inspect the wiring to determine if it needs to be updated to meet current regulations. “You can find a local electrician who can help with this requirement,” notes the designer.

Books

The cost of books can add up fast if you’re trying to decorate with them. Luckily, most thrift stores carry a generous selection of this item. “I love hunting for old books with beautiful covers to style shelves and hidden bookshelf doors,” says Nicole Jensen, interior designer at Murphy Door. “These pieces layer in personality and history that new items simply can’t replicate.”

Vases

Nice vases can cost a pretty penny—unless you buy them at a thrift store. “Look for vases and containers that could be used for floral arrangements,” Kopp says. “To make this as easy as possible, you want something with a smaller neck that flares out—this is the easiest shape to get flowers to look good without much effort.”