Thrift stores are treasure troves for interior designers and home decor enthusiasts. With a little creativity and patience, you can find unique, high-quality pieces that add character and charm to any space—without breaking the bank. Professional designers often scour secondhand shops for hidden gems that elevate a home’s aesthetic.
If you’re looking to refresh your space on a budget, here are seven thrift store finds interior designers love—and how to style them for a designer-worthy look.
1. Vintage Frames & Artwork
Why Designers Love Them:
Vintage frames add instant elegance to any room. Whether ornate gold, rustic wood, or sleek mid-century designs, thrift stores often carry unique frames that can be repurposed or upcycled.
How to Style Them:
- Create a Gallery Wall: Mix and match frames of different sizes and finishes for an eclectic look.
- Turn Them into Mirrors: Remove old artwork and replace it with a mirror for a custom piece.
- Use as Statement Art: Sometimes, the artwork inside is just as valuable—look for vintage prints, botanical illustrations, or abstract paintings.
2. Solid Wood Furniture (Dressers, Side Tables, Chairs)
Why Designers Love Them:
Well-made wooden furniture from past decades is often sturdier and more affordable than modern mass-produced pieces. Thrift stores frequently have solid oak, teak, or mahogany dressers, side tables, and chairs that just need a little TLC.
How to Style Them:
- Refinish or Paint: Sand and stain wood for a natural look, or paint it in a bold color for a modern twist.
- Mix with Modern Decor: Pair a vintage wooden dresser with contemporary decor for a balanced aesthetic.
- Repurpose: Turn an old dresser into a bathroom vanity or a side table into a nightstand.
3. Ceramic & Porcelain Vases
Why Designers Love Them:
Vases are versatile decor items that can serve as standalone art pieces or functional holders for fresh or dried flowers. Thrift stores often carry high-quality ceramic, porcelain, or even hand-painted vases at a fraction of retail prices.
How to Style Them:
- Group in Odd Numbers: Arrange three vases of varying heights for visual interest.
- Use as Sculptural Decor: Even without flowers, a beautiful vase can enhance a shelf or console table.
- Paint for a Fresh Look: If the glaze is outdated, a coat of matte paint can modernize it.
4. Brass & Metal Decor (Candlesticks, Trays, Lamps)
Why Designers Love Them:
Brass and other metal accents add warmth and sophistication to a space. Thrift stores often have candlesticks, trays, and even vintage lamps that can be polished or spray-painted for a luxe feel.
How to Style Them:
- Polish for a Shiny Finish: Use brass cleaner to restore tarnished pieces.
- Mix Metals: Combine brass with black iron or chrome for a layered look.
- Repurpose: Turn an old brass tray into a stylish coffee table centerpiece.
5. Textiles (Vintage Rugs, Blankets, Curtains)
Why Designers Love Them:
High-quality textiles like wool rugs, embroidered throws, and linen curtains can be expensive new, but thrift stores often have them at a steal. Vintage textiles add texture and coziness to any room.
How to Style Them:
- Layer Rugs: Place a vintage Persian rug over a jute rug for depth.
- Use as Wall Hangings: Frame a beautiful textile as unique art.
- Reupholster: Turn vintage fabric into pillow covers or chair cushions.
6. Glassware & Decorative Dishes
Why Designers Love Them:
From Depression glass to mid-century milk glass, thrift stores are full of beautiful glassware and decorative dishes that can be used for styling shelves, tables, and even walls.
How to Style Them:
- Display on Open Shelving: Arrange glassware by color for a curated look.
- Use as Catch-Alls: Small dishes can hold jewelry, keys, or candles.
- Create a Centerpiece: Fill a glass bowl with seasonal fruits or decorative balls.
7. Unique Lighting (Lamps, Chandeliers, Sconces)
Why Designers Love Them:
Lighting can make or break a room’s ambiance, and thrift stores often carry one-of-a-kind lamps, chandeliers, and sconces that just need a new shade or a fresh coat of paint.
How to Style Them:
- Rewire for Safety: If needed, update old wiring.
- Swap Lampshades: A modern shade can transform a vintage base.
- Use as Statement Pieces: A bold thrifted lamp can become a room’s focal point.
Final Thoughts
Thrift store shopping is a sustainable and budget-friendly way to elevate your home’s design. By keeping an eye out for these seven designer-approved finds, you can create a stylish, personalized space without overspending. The key is to see potential in every piece—whether it’s refinishing furniture, repurposing decor, or mixing vintage with modern.
