Monday, February 18, 2013

Retail Store Inspiration: non-junk-style

It's no secret, I like to shop. You're not surprised, are you?

About a month ago, I had a little "me" time, wandering through the Galleria in Edina, MN. It's a high-end shopping center, at which I typically buy nothing. Except, Crate and Barrel was having a clearance sale, and I'm all about the bargains! It was one of those days with nothing on the agenda, and no rush. I love to shop alone on days like these, because I never feel rushed, or as if I'm making someone stand around while I look at some thing they'd never consider remotely interesting.

Annnnyway. I wandered Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, etc, etc checking out what they had. I mean, realistically, they are our competition. Have you seen our amazing antique rail carts? Their reproductions can't even come CLOSE to the real thing - not to mention the prices....whooooeeeee.

But, I did snap a few pics of what I thought were some hot items. I'd love to find some originals of these bad boys to have in the shop. Check out the eye candy below!

Loving the fabric prints, the hardware, and some of the really out-there styles, like the airplane-inspired armchair!







If you want some cool old wheels for decor, we've got 'em. And they won't set you back $99!  


 Above right:  Hey, we've got some skulls and horns, too!




Above: The front and back of the same chair. I saw a lot of the rough, unfinished burlap look. Very cool!




 Above right: I would give my left arm to find an original whatever-those-things-are to make into tables!



Above:  A steamer-trunk inspired desk! How cool is that?


Above left: $145 for this pulley!! None of our pulleys are priced over $45 :)