Meet Jourdan Fairchild — a North Carolina–based interior designer transforming homes with story and soul. A former magazine editor, Jourdan has a soft spot for older homes and secondhand furnishings as unique and authentic as her. Her interiors feel collected, layered, and deeply personal — proof that beautiful design doesn’t come from following trends, but from telling your own story.
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Jourdan as our guest curator, sharing a glimpse into her distinctive eye for vintage and secondhand treasures. From sculptural lighting to timeworn ceramics, her selection celebrates character, craftsmanship, and the timelessness of the well-loved and well-made.
Pair of Jens Quistgaard Danish Mid Century Modern S Shaped Taper Candle Holders and Metal Bowl
Majolica Fern & Bamboo Tea Set With Teapot, Sugar Bowl, And Creamer
Vintage French "Horchow Collection" Wood & Metal Fish Tray, Salmon Caviar Serving Cutting Board
Framed Abstract Figurative Painting 31" X 17" Contemporary Modern Art
Vintage Green Glazed Studio Thrown Vase Converted to Table Lamp, 16.5"H
What got you interested in secondhand, vintage and antique items?
I grew up in a Greek Revival–style house built in 1859, raised by a mother who loved color and cherished antiques she brought home from trips. My love and knowledge deepened when I was an editor at Country Living magazine in NYC, where it was my literal job to learn about vintage and secondhand items.
I had very little expendable income at that point, and so I loved that shopping for old pieces was sustainable, affordable, and would lead to a truly unique sense of style in my apartment. Now incorporating vintage and antique pieces is a huge component in my design philosophy and style as an interior designer.
What are the one or two things that you always find yourself bidding on/looking for when shopping secondhand?
I'm always looking for vintage accessories as well as lamps/lighting. These are often the pieces that add that final layer of personality to a room.
What's your absolute favorite item ever purchased at an estate sale or online auction?
I have a floral wood inlay secretary from an estate sale that's so wildly unique and I just adore.
Any tips or advice for online auction or estate sale newbies?
With online auctions, I try every possible search term I can think of (even misspellings). So I search “Art Deco, Italy, France, burl, Murano, hand-painted, rattan, Nemadji pottery, etc. etc.” And with estate sales, I try to go early and head to the opposite area of the house where other people are going. I also act fast and try not to overthink.
Whether she’s uncovering a one-of-a-kind burlwood cabinet or styling a bamboo chair beside a modern abstract, Jourdan’s curation embodies the joy of the hunt—that perfect balance between history, artistry, and intuition.
Follow @jourdanfairchild for more design inspiration, and explore her AuctionNinja picks to shop the vintage finds she can’t get enough of.
Ready to locate an estate sale company or explore online estate auctions? Visit AuctionNinja.com. If you're new to online estate auctions, try it risk-free by sigining up here.
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