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Decorating your home with stylish, high-quality pieces doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. In fact, many unique and eye-catching finds are hiding in plain sight at thrift stores. Just like there are smart strategies to boost your home’s value, there are certain secondhand finds that designers consistently seek out.
Curious what designers are always hunting for? Here are ten thrift store items they swear by to bring personality and polish to any room.
Antique Furniture
Antique furniture brings a level of craftsmanship and character that’s often missing in newer pieces. Thrift stores can be a goldmine for one-of-a-kind finds that, with a bit of restoration or reupholstering, blend classic beauty with modern function. These timeless pieces add depth and personality to any room.
Mirrors
A unique mirror can instantly add charm to a room. Look beyond minor scratches—many can be polished out or simply add character. Mirrors with detailed or ornate frames can serve as striking focal points. A fresh coat of paint can also help match the frame to your home’s color palette and style.
Picture Frames
Thrift shops are full of picture frames in various shapes and styles. Unique frames can be used as-is, repurposed as decor, or given a fresh coat of paint for a more modern look. Whether displaying art, family photos, or used as wall accents, these frames add a custom touch to your space.
Fine China and Crystal
Delicate china and crystal pieces often turn up in excellent condition at secondhand shops. With their elegant patterns and fine detailing, they add instant sophistication to dining spaces. Whether displayed in a hutch or used for special occasions, these pieces bring a refined, classic feel to any table.
Original Artwork
Original art found at thrift stores adds authenticity and uniqueness to your home. From oil paintings to abstract prints, these one-of-a-kind pieces bring visual interest and a personal touch to your decor. Unlike mass-produced art, original works can make a room feel truly distinctive.
Elegant Light Fixtures
Vintage chandeliers, sconces, and lamps often feature high-quality materials such as brass, glass, or crystal. These fixtures can usually be rewired or updated to suit modern needs while preserving their classic appeal. Incorporating them adds a sense of elegance and timelessness to any room.
Vintage Rugs
A well-made vintage rug adds warmth, texture, and color to a space. Even if a rug shows some wear, it can still be used in lower-traffic areas or cut down into smaller mats. Intricate patterns and rich tones make vintage rugs a smart and stylish find.
Brass and Copper Accents
Brass and copper items such as trays, candlesticks, or hardware add a warm, upscale feel to any room. These metals naturally develop a patina over time, giving them a unique, lived-in look. Thrift stores often carry solid pieces that can be cleaned or polished for a refreshed appearance.
Leather Goods
Thrifted leather pieces like chairs, ottomans, and vintage luggage are known for their durability and charm. With a little conditioning, many used leather items can look almost new. Their rich tones and textures bring depth and a touch of rugged luxury to your interiors.
Architectural Salvage
Old doors, window frames, mantels, and other architectural pieces can be repurposed into dramatic design elements. These salvaged items bring history and character into the home, and often become great conversation starters.
Books and Decorative Objects
Vintage books and unique decorative pieces like vases, figurines, and sculptures can complete a room’s design. Books add warmth and visual interest to shelves and coffee tables, while small objects help personalize a space. These little details often make the biggest difference.
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Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
