Life in the Past Lane

Amp up your home d�cor with local pieces, antique finds and a touch of whimsy

By Kate Sullivan
CTW Features

Image courtesy domino magazine

With online shopping, today's consumers bring the name-brand stores that aren't in their neighborhoods to their doorstep with just a click. Catalogs, malls and national home-furnishing chains unite homes from coast to coast in commonality. But what does this accessibility do to originality?

Break free from mass-produced monotony by adding flair from your local heritage to your home.

When taking the rummage route, there is no money-back guarantee. Tom Delavan, editor-at-large with decorating magazine Domino, points out that some pieces make for more of a sure shot than others. "Wood is hard to fake. Old wood will have some warping called worming which appear as little holes. But once painted though, you have no idea." When it comes to adding to your fine dining, Delavan says, "Authentic antique silver usually has some hallmark, like a stamp on the individual piece." Don your detective hat and start the search for oldies but goodies.

For owner of the Painted Lady in Chicago, Beth Harlow, the scavenger hunt for style comes easy. But most of us need a map. Here's Harlow's advice to life in the past lane.

* Thrift Shops - Community or church-based shops like the Salvation Army usually get new truck shipments weekly. Knowing when the load lands give you first dibs to used furniture. Since most items come from donations you have to sift though yesterdays purchase to find the older antiques but for Harlow this search is worth it. "You can find a really good buy and if your location receives shipments daily, go as often and early as possible.

* Estate Sales - Not your typical yard sale, watch for these in the paper and online by searching your surrounding area. "The biggest challenge to estate sale shopping is finding the listing," says Harlow. Her trick of the trade? Most families' hire outside companies to run the sale, so to really dive deep in your search, get to know the players in town and make connections with those coordinating. "Now my contacts call me when they spot something they know I would like," says Harlow.

* Antique Malls - Housing booths of different dealers under one roof, this venue offers everything from lamps to collectibles to furniture. Do a walk-though to get to know the lay of the land. For Harlow, "Find one mall you like to frequent and go to the booths that sell the items you want to do some cost comparison." Another tip? "While they won't offer it unless you speak up, but always ask if they offer a discount at checkout. Most will give you 10 percent off the total.

Adding antique accents into your home comes easy when you get a little inquisitive and make your presence known amongst those who make a living out of life in the past.

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