Step five: Shopping and ordering

Step Five: Shopping and Ordering

Shopping for a project is one of my favourite parts of the process; it's the stage where everything begins to come together and the room starts to take shape.

• When it comes to sourcing items for a room, I believe in going everywhere – from local secondhand shops to high-end furniture dealers. There are incredible deals and unique treasures to be found in all sorts of unexpected places, so cast your net far and wide.
• Balance is a huge consideration when furnishing a room. Consider how a large and squishy sofa might need something dainty and elegant to balance it, or how a dark and heavy sideboard would work better when paired with a simple, light chair beside it.
• I always find it's good to include a bench within a room. Benches can be stored underneath consoles and pulled out when you need an extra seat, or they can sit in front of a fireplace as a place to perch without obstructing the view.
• As well as checking out antique shops and auction houses, work to build relationships with individual dealers too. They will be able to provide invaluable advice and help if you're looking to source specific items.
• Try to include a mix of modern and antique pieces; the juxtaposition of the two next to each other in a scheme is what creates the interesting tension you're after in a dramatic interior.
• If you are shopping online, it's best to have a clear idea of exactly what you're looking for, otherwise the process can become too overwhelming. Don't get too locked to a screen – it's always best to try and get out and about when sourcing, because you never know what you might find.

Tips for Shopping at Auctions

• Use as many different online auction sites as you can find, and visit as many auctioneers as you are able to. The wider the search, the more likely you are to find the gems.
• Each lot will have an estimate, which will often be very low as it's set to draw you in. Spend some time just observing an auction to get a sense of the types of prices things end up going for.
• Do your research, and look up what a similar piece has sold for elsewhere in the marketplace. This can help you to understand whether or not you're getting a good deal.
• Set strict limits, based upon the research you've done beforehand. You don't want to get carried away in the moment and pay too much for something.
• Don't worry if you lose out on something; remember that another piece will always come along.
• Enjoy the thrill of the hunt, and keep your eyes peeled wherever you go.

Tips for Choosing a Sofa

• If you have a very clear idea of what you want but can't find it in the marketplace, try approaching an upholsterer to make it for you.
• When buying a sofa from a manufacturer, always go and view it in person before purchasing. You need to sit on it and feel the fabric to make sure it's completely right.
• A good sofa will be a big investment, but it's one that I believe is worth it because it will get a great deal of use.

Fix, Repair, Restore and Refurbish

• Often, items bought at auction will be a little bit dilapidated – this may even be the reason you managed to get it for a good price.
• If the piece is particularly old, unique or special, send it to a professional restorer or craftsperson.
• You can have items painted, polished, sanded, ebonised or reupholstered; the possibilities are endless.

Don't Forget...

Once you've confirmed a piece of furniture for a room, I would recommend printing out an image of it to stick to your scheme board, directly onto the corresponding place in the floor plan. This will help you to keep track of what you've sourced, and what you still need to find.

Your Assignment

Start shopping for items for your own scheme – look up your local auction houses and antique dealers, and get a sense of what might be available online too. Step out of your comfort zone and have fun trying new things.

Sourcebook

Online Auctions:

• Sotheby's
• Christie's
• Stair Gallery
• Doyle Auctions
• Hayloft

Places to Buy Good Sofas:

• Restoration Hardware
• Ballard Designs
• Crate & Barrel