Busting Design Boredom

With today’s Internet access, shopping is now easier than ever. I typically buy almost all Christmas presents online because it just makes life so much easier. Sometimes though-especially when it comes to design-I get bored with all things online. It seems like I see the same products over and over again, and if you feel the same way, then keep reading. Whenever I feel uninspired with online decor and design, I hit the pavement and head to all the local shops that my feet will allow. I went to four antique shops last weekend, and I didn’t buy a single thing. NOT ONE SINGLE THING, PEOPLE! My husband would be proud. What I did do though was take pictures of all the things that inspired me, and there were a lot of things! If I see something that I love, and it’s an investment piece, then I take a picture of it, and I think on it, OR I try to find something that might be a bit of a knock off, but it fits my budget better. Regardless, the point of going to all of these beautiful stores is to bust design boredom (and supporting local shops is always a bonus). Below, you can check out a few stores I went to last weekend, and all the beautiful pieces I found. Be sure and read the captions as to why they inspired me, and hopefully they will inspire you too.

*All stores are local to Birmingham, AL.

Greystone Marketplace 280:

There were more of the floral decor pictures, but I couldn’t fit them all in the frame. I LOVE how many of these there are because it truly makes them a statement piece. I have been searching on Etsy for some printable versions of these because I need something like this in our home.

I have nothing to add to this picture other than these are some of the most beautiful, realistic faux flowers I have seen in a long time. They had set them up in the most perfect way, and they had a large grouping of berries that looked so real I had to touch them to make sure.

The shape of this nightstand made me want to scour Facebook Marketplace for all the cool shaped furniture I could find. Shape is everything when it comes to design because it adds so much interest to your home without trying too hard. From the pulls to the antique tiny picture on top, I loved everything about this look.

Hannah Antiques:

This wardrobe cabinet from Hannah Antiques was on sale for $500. I almost bought it, but I couldn’t think of a great place to put it right now. Wardrobe cabinets are extremely versatile. Repeat after me-they do not have to be used for wardrobes! I thought about using this one as a pantry in our kitchen because we don’t have a great pantry space right now, and it would add interest and warmth to an all white kitchen. I might go back and see if it’s still there.

This is a 22 karat tea set that I never knew I needed. The picture doesn’t do it justice, and for only $100 you absolutely can’t beat the price. I couldn’t stop staring at it. How gorgeous would this look on a credenza in the dining room? Or set out for a holiday celebration?

Trisha’s Treasures:

Ignore Stephen in the background. LOL. Seriously though, if you want a super unique chandelier, then Trisha’s Treasures is your go-to place in Birmingham. She had many more chandeliers, but I couldn’t get a great picture of them. I had never seen any of them before, so it was a breath of fresh air. They are huge, unique, and all beautiful. The materials were what made these so glorious-very unique!

Ever since I saw Nate Berkus with an all black oil painting, I have wanted one. The way he styled it was ingenious. He put a large vase with beautiful, colorful flowers in front of it, and they looked like they were part of the art. I couldn’t believe Trisha’s had one, and it was a great size too.

Trisha’s has a new art gallery that you won’t want to miss. It is full of inspiration and interest. I love the shape of these, and together they make a statement piece.

I felt extremely inspired after visiting these local shops, and I hope you do too. Comment below on other great stores that are local to you where you find inspiration!

Love,