Photo: Via Tini
Tini
We remember when Tini, which is an acronym for This Is Not Ikea, was online-only, and Alexis (the owner) would email back to let you know if a piece was still available (such suspense!). It's been a true treat to watch this business grow, and we know for a fact that these pickers are constantly on the hunt (they once visited a yard sale we had) for quirky-cool pieces that can instantly boost a room to retro-glam status.
Tini, 515 South Fairfax Avenue (Near South Hayworth Avenue); 310-999-5951.
Sunbeam Vintage
This wondrous warehouse is named for the theater that once stood in its space, and was previously only open to set designers, by appointment. The prices here can't be beat, even at the flea market!
Sunbeam Vintage, 106 South Avenue 58 (At North Figueroa Street); 323-908-9743.
Finster Studio
You won't find any snobbery lurking at this eclectic outpost, and varied pieces abound, geared to every aesthetic. From upcycled furniture to mid-century tchotchkes sold by super-cool shopkeepers, there's definitely something at Finster to send every shopper away with a smile!
Finster Studio, 2638 North Figueroa Street (Near West Avenue 26); 323-342-0234.
Vintageweave
You simply can't go to West Third Street without stopping by this Francophile's dream. Think antique cake plates, beautiful glass bottles, and even garden items. The owners cross the pond to treasure hunt in Europe on the regs, and we've never left empty-handed — this is the spot for gift shopping for the chic gal who has it all.
Vintageweave Interiors, 7928 West Third Street (At South Fairfax Avenue); 323-932-0451.
Herman Schwartz
This little shop on Pico has stayed under the radar because it's easy to miss when you're whizzing by, but don't let it go unnoticed any longer. There's nothing stereotypical about owner Larry Cylinder's buys — every single piece this shop stocks is a statement-maker. Oh, and you can find cool contemporary art is here, too.
Herman Schwartz, 5825 Pico Boulevard (Near South Fairfax Avenue); 323-274-5151.
Reel Appeal
The set items from extinct TV shows and movies that have wrapped must go somewhere, and Reel Appeal has cornered the market. Formerly located in a ginormous warehouse in the Arts District downtown, this shop is so under-the-radar that it went MIA for a hot minute (and still doesn't even have a legit web site). Now, this liquidation destination is near the Burbank airport, and it's always best to call the owner first to find out what treasures currently lie in its trove. There may be a random collection of gumball machines and arcade games one day, or chic leopard dining chairs à la Tony Duquette, the next. Just so you know, this is our absolute favorite on this entire list.
Reel Appeal, 2911 Winona Avenue (Near North Ontario Street), Burbank; 818-565 3569.
InvenTORI
We all know that Tori and Dean are an enterprising pair, and we think their latest venture will be the most successful of all their exploits. Started because Tori could no longer house all of her finds at home, this has turned into a spot where you can snatch up precious antiques peppered amongst unique new pieces for your home, kitchen, and even your pup.
InvenTORI, 13826 Ventura Boulevard (At Woodman Avenue); 818-981-1007.
Nick Metropolis Collectible Furniture
Perhaps you've passed by this corner-side La Brea open-air shop with its eye-poppingly bright oddities, but have never stopped to go in. Well, next time, we highly recommend you pull over, find parking, and get weird! This place is like a carnival for cocktail-party conversation pieces. There are old-school classroom lockers, tiki bars, and yes, even some items that are just plain ugly, to up your Saturday entertainment factor.
Nick Metropolis Collectible Furniture, 100 South La Brea Avenue (Near West 1st Street); 323-934-3700.
Looky Thrift Store
Feast your eyes on some great finds at Looky. There's nothing stuffy about this joint, and it can be hit or miss, but when you scour, you'll be extra stoked, because your wallet will definitely be spared.
Nadeau
Nadeau has become a sweet spot for those who prefer to trick out their apartment with fun, sometimes-painted second-run furniture. Its motto is "furniture with a soul," and you can be one hundred percent certain that whatever distinct piece you head home with is authentic — they take this stuff really seriously.
Nadeau, 9040 Santa Monica Boulevard (At North Doheny Drive); 310-559-6326.
Painted Ladies
This genius boutique carries all sorts of vintage furniture and fixtures, all re-painted in the prettiest hues. This place for your pad is girly-gorg, through and through.
Painted Ladies, 1619 Lincoln Boulevard (Near Washington Boulevard), Venice; 310-822-5507.
45 Three Modern Vintage Home
If you're in the mood for '60s or '70s chic, this is your one-stop shop. Beautifully styled and packed with art, rugs, pillows, furniture, and tchotchkes, this mid-century mecca is filled with pieces to light that spark of inspiration. The last time we were there, the owner, Staci gave us the heads up that she's expanding into the space next door, for an estate-sale-only outpost, soon. And we can't wait!
45 Three Modern Vintage Home, 1051 1/2 South Fairfax Avenue (Near West Olympic Boulevard); 323-932-0832.
DeKor
Scandinavia reigns stylishly supreme at DeKor. Owner Isabelle Dahlin fills her space with some of the most whimsical textiles, art, glass, and pieces crafted from reclaimed wood. She's a bona fide designer, too, so be sure to ask for tips while you're there.
DeKor, 2145 West Sunset Boulevard (Near North Alvarado Street); 213-375-7627.