Where do interior designers shop?

Are you always on the hunt for unique accessories and furniture for your home? Do you believe that no room is complete without statement furniture, unusual artworks or antiques? If so, then knowing where we interior designers source such things is the kind of invaluable insider information you need. Here, I’ll guide you through some of my favourite places for seeking out those must-have finds.

Shop locally

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You never know when that perfect piece will appear, so my first advice is to shop often. Dealers in antiques, vintage and collectibles get new stock in all the time so it pays to pop in regularly, which is why finding good places local to you is invaluable.

For anyone based in London, make a beeline for Lillie Road in Fulham. This destination for antique shops is home to more than 15 retailers, offering a wide range of different specialities. Another West London institution is Guinevere at 574-580 King’s Road. Established in 1963, this family-run business is known for combining different styles and eras of furniture and objects, making it an inspiring place to shop. Guinevere is also famed for its themed window displays, which are worth a visit in themselves!

I’ve made some great discoveries at auctions over the years. And nowhere is better for interiors than Lots Road Auctions. This Chelsea-based auction house holds a weekly Sunday auction for furniture, decorative items and antiques. There is also a specialist fine antiques auction once a month. Plan before you bid by viewing the catalogue for the upcoming auction online from the evening of the Thursday before.

Seek out boutique businesses and new artists

I’m passionate about supporting up-and-coming artists and try to buy from them whenever possible. It can also mean beautiful pieces come with a slightly smaller price tag. For original artworks, look to your local art society – I’ve found the Richmond Art Society to be an invaluable source. With two exhibitions a year focusing on local, new and up-and-coming artists, there’s always surprises to be found.

Meanwhile, Rise Art works with curators, gallerists and collectors to champion and showcase the work of outstanding emerging artists. Browse and buy online from a huge choice of paintings, prints, photos, drawings and sculpture. Brilliantly, you can also rent artworks for a monthly fee and enjoy a constantly changing backdrop to your interiors.

As far as boutique businesses go, I love the work being done by UK-based interiors stylist Anna Unwin. Buy direct from her online shop, AU Bespoke, and choose from furniture, lighting, textiles and objects. Each one is selected by Anna for its strong sense of design and idiosyncrasy, and valued for its history and longevity.

Antique markets and shops

There are antiques markets up and down the country, but for my money you can’t beat Sunbury and Sandown Antiques Markets. Held on Kempton Park and Sandown Park racecourses respectively, there’s always a huge range of dealers there and brilliant finds to be had.

Staying in the south east, I have to give a mention to Hampton Court Emporium. This fascinating destination is set across three floors, with more than 35 dealers in antiques and collectibles trading here, and all experts in their fields. It’s a treasure trove for antique and reproduction furniture, silverware, porcelain, glassware, lamps, chandeliers and mirrors, and much, much more.

Charming Henley on Thames is home to several antique shops, so not only can you enjoy a day out by the river, you can also pick up some lovely pieces for your home at the same time.