Adding History and Style: How Designers Use Secondhand Finds

-- photo by Grey Joyney for Bovara Studios

Ever wonder what professional designers find at estate sales? We asked two experts to share their most cherished finds, proving that a little history can add a lot of style to any home. These designers share top estate sale treasures below used for decorating with secondhand finds.

Adding History and Style: How Designers Use Secondhand Finds

Favorite Treasures: Two Designers Share Their Top Estate Sale Finds

Favorite estate sale finds look different to everyone—and that’s part of the fun. It’s always a thrill to source a piece that so distinctly reflects your personal style or fills a gap in your home that has been bothering you for months. 

Here, we’re sharing two designers’ top estate sale finds, which demonstrate that no space is complete without something old and stylish. Whether you’re heading home with a few sizable pieces of furniture or a smaller decorative accent, it’s amazing how much charm a pre-loved find can add to your space. 

An Authentic Set of Vintage Cesca Chairs 

“In a recent mid-century project, we scored a pretty beat-up set of what looked like original Marcel Breuer Cesca chairs at an estate sale. The paint was chipping, the cane seats were blown out … but the construction (a single, unwelded metal tube) hinted that they were authentic.”

“Turns out, they were original Gavina chairs, which was the original manufacturer before Knoll acquired the design rights. We restored them and incorporated them into the dining area of the project. They add a layer of architectural history that feels right at home in such a special mid-century home.” — Courtney Batten, founder of Paige Studio 

A Rare Silver Epergne Centerpiece 

“The silver epergne on the coffee table in my home is one of my favorite estate sale finds. I spotted it and immediately knew it was coming home with me—it has such a sculptural elegance to it. Technically it’s meant to hold flowers, but it’s just as striking when it's empty- almost like a piece of art.” 

“I almost never see an epergne out at estate sales or even at antique shops; they’re just a rarity. I love how it adds a layer of history and shine to this space, sitting confidently among the more modern elements. It’s that kind of unexpected piece that gives a room soul.” — Grey Joyner, the founder of Grey Joyner Interiors 

If you’re wondering how to find vintage furniture at estate sales, be sure to see AuctionNinja’s Buying Guides and Tips on vintage home decor finds and antique furniture from estate sales. 

Both Courtney and Grey’s experiences prove that estate sales are more than just a place to find a good deal—they're a treasure trove of history and character. (Courteny’s expertise helped her to know how to spot authentic cesca chairs.) By incorporating these unique, pre-loved items into their designs, they create spaces that feel rich with personality and soul. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a new homeowner, remember that the most memorable spaces are often those that tell a story, one cherished find at a time.

Written by:

Sarah Lyon

July 28, 2025     Updated 01:08 PM

Sarah Lyon is a Washington, DC, native living in New York City. As a freelancer, she frequently covers pieces pertaining to interior design, travel, and other lifestyle topics. Her pieces have appeared in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, the Washington Post, the New York Times, and more. When she isn't writing, Sarah works with designers to help them style spaces for photo shoots (and can't stop rearranging and redecorating her own apartment, either!). She has a penchant for shopping secondhand and loves giving preloved pieces new life. Sarah’s own spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz, and Washingtonian.com. Her Dupont Circle apartment was featured in both the spring 2019 print edition of Small Space Decorating and the January 2019 print edition of Washingtonian Magazine.

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