The best thrift store finds to update your space
Words and Imagery: Geneva Vanderzeil // @genevavenderzeil
Intro: Sarah Tarca // @tarca
Image: Geneva Vanderzeil // Home is Where You Make It by Geneva Vanderzeil, $35
I’ve always felt like thrifting (or op-shopping as us Aussies like to say) is very polarising. You either completely live for it, and walk into a Salvo’s with adrenalin pumping and your heart full of expectation about what treasure you may find in the mountain-high piles of stuff. Or, alternatively, the mere thought of that pile makes you both itchy and need to take a nap. I’m in the former camp, a gift that was passed on from my mum and solidified during countless weekends as a kid scouring local garage sales looking for gems for my dress-up-box. Those weekends were some of the best of my childhood, and I still dream about the amazing things we found there (that have since been redonated).
Regardless of what camp you’re in, now more than ever, buying second-hand is becoming more important from an eco-conscious perspective. But, while that’s true, it doesn’t change the fact that it can also be overhwhelming. Not just because of the sheer amount of stuff either, but because it’s really hard to know what to look for – especially when it comes to your interiors. That’s where Geneva Vanderzeil steps in. The editor, author, stylist, maker and photographer (formerly of the Instagram account / blog A Pair And A Spare) is one of the undisputed Queens of DIY, and has a knack for making everything (even a $3 op-shop kids trike) look like it was handmade in Scandanavia. Here, fresh from her brand new book, Home Is Where You Make It, she shares the best items to look for in a thrift store to instantly update, and make an impact to your space.
“I talk a lot about designing a space that feels real, lived in and not like a showroom. But how do you actually achieve that? For me, it means adding different items and mixing up the decor so it feels layered rather than static. And that’s where buying second-hand comes in! I absolutely love the depth that’s created by adding antiques or second-hand pieces to a space. It’s the perfectly imperfect nature of these items that gives your space life. You don’t need to buy a big piece of
furniture to get this effect – a few small items here and there won’t cost a lot, but they can add so much interest and character to your space. And the best part? Buying second-hand is eco-friendly.”
Books
I have a fascination with unusual books from second-hand stores – the stranger, the better. I love old book covers and colourful hardback books, for reading as well as the depth they bring to a space. Keep your eye out for pretty covers that you can match to the décor and colours in a room.
Mirrors
Take even a cursory look around an antiques store and you’ll find mirrors of all shapes and sizes, and it’s this variety that adds serious personality to your space. In the last few years I’ve found round mirrors, arched mirrors, antiques with decorative edges and so many more. They don’t cost too much and make such a big difference.
Baskets
Investing in older baskets bought from an antiques store is a great way to add depth to your space and give it more personality.
Artwork
I’m yet to fully embrace buying original artwork. I have to admit that most of the pieces I like are outside my price range. But that doesn’t mean I have to opt for cheap knock-off prints or dull still-life pictures. Flea markets are great places to find artwork that has a life and a history.
Ceramics
You’ll always find me hunting through the ceramics section, no matter how boring and bland the second-hand store. It really pays to keep your eyes open. No matter where I am, I always manage to find amazing second-hand terracotta vases, retro cups and milk jugs, and handmade mugs.
Lamps
Lamps are an opportunity to experiment with detail and style. And, in this case, go vintage or go
home! I love everything about a fringed retro lamp, an ’80s-inspired ceramic shell lamp or anything with a pleated paper shade. Consider swapping out old or ugly shades if the base is good.
For more tips on upcycling, repurposing and styling your space, grab copy of Home Is Where You Make It, by Geneva Vanderzeil, photography by Geneva Vanderzeil. Out now.
Murdoch Books RRP $35.00.