The Thrill of the Thrift: Finding Unexpected Treasures for Every Space

When the mood strikes, I love popping into a local thrift store to see what hidden gems I can uncover. There’s something about the thrill of the hunt—the unpredictability, the quiet patience it requires—that feels both grounding and creatively energizing.

Some of my favorite pieces in my home have been thrifted. A vintage vase with the perfect patina, a silver tray that adds just the right amount of charm, a petite side table that now lives beside a favorite reading chair—all found secondhand. These pieces instantly added character to my space, and that’s exactly what I look for when I’m sourcing accessories, art, and furniture for my design projects.

While flea markets have their own charm, thrift stores are often more accessible. They’re usually more affordable, closer to home, and you don’t need to wake up at the crack of dawn to find something great. I can stop in on a whim—no planning required.

One personal rule I follow: I always buy at least one thing. It doesn’t have to be perfect or immediately useful, but if it speaks to me, I trust that it will eventually find its place. That’s where the magic happens—in the mix of old and new, high and low, curated and collected. That’s what makes a space feel layered and lived-in.

So next time you pass by your local thrift shop, pop in. You never know what treasure is waiting to be found.