6 Thrift Store Buys That Designers Say You Need To Add To Your Dining Room
Looking to add some flair to your dining room without emptying your wallet? Thrift stores are treasure troves of unique items that can transform your eating space from boring to breathtaking. Professional designers often hunt through secondhand shops for one-of-a-kind pieces that add character and charm.
I’ve gathered some expert recommendations for thrift store finds that will elevate your dining room’s style instantly.
1. Vintage Silver Serving Pieces
Silver platters, teapots, and serving utensils bring instant elegance to any dining room. Even tarnished pieces have character and can be polished up or left with a patina for that coveted aged look.
I love grouping mismatched silver pieces on a sideboard or using them during dinner parties. They photograph beautifully and make even simple meals feel special. Plus, thrift stores often price these treasures at a fraction of what new serving pieces would cost.
2. Hardcover Art Books
Found a stack of gorgeous art books? Grab them! Large, colorful books add instant sophistication when stacked on a buffet or sideboard. They create height for displaying other objects and offer interesting conversation starters when guests visit.
You don’t need to be an art expert to appreciate beautiful imagery. I’ve picked up stunning photography, architecture, and fashion books for just a few dollars each. When dinner conversation lulls, these books provide the perfect browsing material.
3. Mismatched Wooden Chairs
Gone are the days of perfectly matched dining sets! Modern designers love the collected-over-time look of different wooden chairs around a dining table. The trick is finding chairs of similar heights but varying styles.
I recommend looking for solid construction and interesting shapes. A quick coat of paint can unify different pieces if they’re too mismatched. This approach not only saves money but creates a curated look that tells a story and feels much more personal than store-bought sets.
4. Crystal Decanters
Crystal decanters add sparkle and sophistication to any dining space. Fill them with water, wine, or even colored liquid for a decorative statement. The prismatic effect they create when light hits them is magical.
My favorite thrift store hack is using these elegant vessels as water carafes during dinner parties. Guests always comment on them! Even a single decanter on a small tray makes an impact. The best part? They typically cost under $15 at thrift stores versus $100+ for new ones.
5. Large Framed Mirrors
A statement mirror can completely transform your dining room by reflecting light and making the space feel larger. Heavy, ornate frames add architectural interest and become focal points even in simple rooms.
During my thrift store hunts, I’ve found that older mirrors often have better quality glass and more interesting frames. Look for solid construction and unique shapes. Don’t worry about minor imperfections – they add character and history to your space in a way that mass-produced items never could.
6. Brass Candlesticks
Nothing creates ambiance like candlelight, and brass candlesticks from thrift stores offer both warmth and visual interest. Varying heights create rhythm across a table or mantel.
The patina on older brass pieces gives them character that new items lack. I’ve created stunning centerpieces by grouping mismatched brass candlesticks down the center of my dining table. They work for everyday dinners or special occasions. Best of all, thrift stores usually price them between $3-10 each, making this an affordable luxury.
