Where Chicago Interior Designers Shop for Unique Pieces
Moody Living Room, Designed by Sarah Jaquelyn Interiors
Lake Forest Showhouse, Pantry Hallway, Designed by Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors
Gameroom Bar, Designed by Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors
When people ask what makes a home feel truly designed versus simply decorated, the answer often comes down to where designers shop. As a Chicago interior designer, sourcing is one of the most important, and most fun, parts of our process. It’s how we create spaces that feel layered, personal, and completely unique to each client.
If you’ve ever wondered where interior designers in Chicago find those special pieces that make a home stand out, here’s a look inside a few of our favorite local sources, and why we return to them again and again.
Lost Eras – For Vintage Character & Timeless Depth
One of our go-to sources for vintage and antique pieces, Lost Eras brings an unmatched sense of history into the spaces we design. Their collection instantly adds depth and character, something that simply can’t be replicated with new furniture.
We’re constantly drawn to the craftsmanship and patina of their pieces. These elements introduce a warmth and authenticity that help a home feel layered rather than one-dimensional. Incorporating vintage finds allows us to create interiors that feel collected over time, not designed in a single day.
For clients who want a home that feels timeless and one-of-a-kind, this is always one of the first places we look.
Eskell– For Curated Accessories & Finishing Touches
Accessories can make or break a space, and Eskell is one of our favorite destinations for those final, transformative details.
What sets Eskell apart is how curated everything feels. Nothing feels mass-produced; instead, each piece contributes to a layered, intentional aesthetic. From artisanal objects to textiles and small décor pieces, their selection helps us add texture, warmth, and personality to a room.
When we’re styling a space and want it to feel complete, elevated, and thoughtfully finished, this is our go-to.
Odd Alchemy – For Local, Handcrafted Design
Supporting local makers is an important part of how we design, and Odd Alchemy is a perfect example of why.
We’re consistently inspired by their handcrafted pieces, which feel artistic, unexpected, and full of personality. These are the kinds of elements that elevate a space from beautiful to memorable.
Incorporating work from a local artisan allows us to bring truly custom, one-of-a-kind details into our projects. Their pieces also introduce a subtle edge and texture that layers beautifully into our signature timeless interiors.
El Design – For Statement Lighting & Ambiance
Lighting is one of the most impactful elements in any interior, and EL Design is a must-visit for both designers and homeowners alike.
Their expansive, multi-level showroom showcases thousands of fixtures, allowing us to experience firsthand how lighting transforms a space, from soft ambient glow to dramatic statement moments. It’s not just about picking a fixture; it’s about understanding how light shapes the entire environment.
We love their curated mix of contemporary and classic designs, which makes it easy to find pieces that feel both fresh and timeless. Their knowledgeable and collaborative team is also an incredible resource, helping us select lighting that truly elevates each room and complements the overall design vision.
Why “Where Designers Shop” Matters
The difference between a good space and a great one often comes down to sourcing. As a Chicago interior designer, we don’t rely on one single store or style—instead, we blend vintage, artisanal, and contemporary pieces to create homes that feel rich, layered, and deeply personal.
Shopping locally also allows us to:
Discover one-of-a-kind pieces
Support Chicago makers and businesses
Create more meaningful, custom interiors for our clients
Looking to Design a Home That Feels Collected & Intentional?
Whether you’re starting fresh or refining your current space, knowing where to source is key—but knowing how to bring it all together is where design expertise truly comes in.
If you’re looking to create a home that feels elevated, timeless, and uniquely yours, we’d love to help guide you through the process.
Sarah Jacquelyn Schwuchow
ASID, NCIDQ, WELL AP, RID