Have you ever wondered how some people pull a room together and it has that certain “Je ne sais quoi”? Where did they find that distressed column? How did they manage to locate a 6-foot window from a since-restored town hall? The answer is simple: flea markets.
If you’ve never been to one before, I will warn you: They’re addictive. I’ve become one of the faithful, a diehard attendee who flocks to different events every year in search of the perfect find. Most times I go with a wish list that includes items and measurements; other times, I’m enticed by the vision of something unintended but wonderful all the same.
As a designer, I like to introduce architectural elements to a home to add character. In my own house, architectural pieces highlight my style. I think mixtures of old juxtaposed with new, different textures and interesting patinas add a quality look to my haven. And the sky’s the limit as far as selections go. Farm tables, bookcases and ironstone pitchers are just a few of the pieces that I’ve collected for my home over the years.

A Study In Contrasts
Sometimes it's the simple things
that have the greatest impact:
Here, oversized glazed white planters
are fronted by little vintage juice glasses
topped with pomegranates for a punch of color.

photos by kelly mcguill unless otherwise noted