4 Living Room Accessories Designers Refuse to Buy New

If you think your home needs to feature all brand-new items in order to appear stylish, think again. Many interior designers actually prefer to go the secondhand route, finding that pre-loved accessories bring the most character and charm.

Wondering which items top their lists? Read on as pros share four categories of living room accessories they never buy new.

Pottery

Why buy newly made, mass-produced pottery when you can score something big secondhand? “An antique pitcher, bowl, or pot can add instant patina and interest to the space,” says Lauren Winsor, founder of House of Winsor, who likes to display these pieces on their own or use them to hold greenery.

If you can educate yourself on various makers and keep an eye out for those styles, even better. “The shapes and details from old American makers like McCoy are so special and eye-catching,” Winsor says. “You just don’t find pieces like these at today’s home stores.”

Small Trinkets

When it comes to shopping for items such as brass, glass, and silver trays, vases, candlesticks, and the like, Dusti Jones, founder of Dusti J Design, almost always goes secondhand.

“These pieces are often made with higher-quality products and a handmade craftsmanship that cannot be found in typical retail offerings,” she says. Beyond trays and vessels, Jones also likes to look for boxes, frames, and even magnifying glasses for styling.

Sarah Smythe, co-founder of Lagniappe, agrees—and notes that small accessories like these only get better with time. “Brass vases and candlesticks are far more compelling when sourced vintage,” she says. “Over time, brass develops a rich, nuanced patina that adds depth and warmth to a room. These elements help create spaces that feel personal, timeless, and thoughtfully assembled rather than overly new or trend-driven.”

Small Art Pieces

There’s no need to rush to fill every shelf with art right away. You can collect an array of special pieces over time by going the secondhand route, as Jessica Williamson, founder of JTW Design, likes to do in her projects.

“Bookcases provide the perfect canvas to incorporate original artwork alongside decorative accessories,” Williamson says, who gravitates toward sketches, oils, and photography. “These small, personal moments help tell our clients’ stories—where they’ve been, who they are, and simply what they love.”

Smythe agrees that “vintage and original pieces win every time” when it comes to art. “Whether it’s a small sketch, oil, or print, older artwork brings authenticity and a story that mass-produced art sometimes lacks,” she says.

Rugs

If you come across a secondhand rug you love, go for it. Jones encourages going vintage, noting that she has sourced beautiful antique and vintage Turkish rugs for many of the spaces she’s designed.

“They have lasted for years because of the high-quality artistry and materials used,” she says, adding that these pieces are well worth the price. “The patterns and colors can serve as gorgeous foundations for the entire living space.”