Decorating {dot} com
March 26, 2008
For years interior designers scoured antiques shops and designer showrooms to furnish their clients’ homes and offices. No more! The internet has changed the way even the most exclusive decorators find everything from French antiques to vintage textiles. I outfitted my Southern California home with mid century pieces like Miles van der Rohe’s table stand and coveted Brno chair, all of which I scored on Ebay.com. I enjoy navigating the virtual garage sales by typing in the designers names into Ebay’s search engine, rather than using vague descriptions like “chair” or “table”. To ensure you are dealing with reputable parties, I recommend you review the seller’s ratings before you bid. The key to finding a treasure on Ebay? Be willing to spruce up a find with new upholstery or a fresh coat of paint!
Another great site to score pieces from the likes of designer Steven Gambrel, is 1stdibs.com This site hooks up buyers with screened dealers in the six major design cities, including Paris and Los Angeles, as well as the Hamptons. Now I can log on to my Mac to find furniture in Paris without having to leave my home. On other sites, 99% of the items hold no interest for me, but on 1stDibs, I always find things that end up giving my home its character.
If antiques or vintage is not your thing, try edhardysf.com for Chinese furnishings and belvedereinc.com for mid century lamps and furnishings.
However, shopping on the Web should not replace a visit to a store. You cannot judge comfort online!
Happy Hunting!
Moi xoxo

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