Designers' secret weapon: how amazon became their go-to source
Forget scouring Paris flea markets at dawn. Top interior designers are increasingly turning to a surprising source for everything from essential hardware to stylish accents: Amazon. While the platform may conjure images of everyday consumer goods, a growing number of design professionals are leveraging its vast inventory, speedy delivery, and competitive pricing for both client projects and personal homes.
The 3 am light bulb rescue: a designer's reality
The revelation isn’t about replacing bespoke sourcing entirely. Instead, it’s about filling crucial gaps – a specialty light bulb needed at 3 a.m. during an install, precisely sized rug pads, or even budget-friendly décor that acts as a clever styling hack. Galey Alix, a designer known for her vibrant aesthetic, puts it succinctly: “I jump on my Amazon app until I find one that will arrive by 9 a.m. that morning.” This immediacy and accessibility are proving invaluable in a demanding field.
Beyond the basics: unexpected finds and finishing touches
The appeal extends beyond mere practicality. Bria Hammel, a Minnesota-based designer, highlights Amazon’s surprisingly robust selection of decorative pieces. “From candlesticks and baskets to vases and picture frames, there are so many great ‘finishing touch’ pieces for styling.” Designers are uncovering unexpected gems, integrating them into projects alongside high-end furniture and custom pieces. It’s about layering textures and adding personality, and Amazon's breadth of options allows for creative experimentation.
Storage solutions: chic and concealed
Ariel Okin, a New York-based designer, champions Amazon for its chic storage options. She recommends StorageWorks wicker baskets, praising their versatility and aesthetic appeal. Soni Mehra, Principal Interior Designer and Founder of Studio Mirae, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the platform's ability to conceal everyday clutter with a wide array of styles and sizes. Natural materials, like jute rope bins and woven seagrass baskets, are favored for their intentional, non-utilitarian feel.
Vase variety & greenery realism
The quest for the perfect vessel also leads designers to Amazon. Bria Hammel pairs dainty vases with vintage accessories for a balanced look, while Devon Wegman uses small bud vases to add texture and seasonal flair to dining tables. The key is finding pieces that complement the overall design, and Amazon’s selection doesn’t disappoint. Victoria Holly, a Los Angeles-based designer, cautions against overspending on finishing touches, opting instead for realistic faux greenery to trim her plant budget, particularly the Spanish moss which she utilizes for a more organic aesthetic.
Rugs, wallpaper & more: a designer's toolkit
Beyond individual items, Amazon’s rug selection is drawing attention, with brands like Loloi and Rugs USA readily available. Isabel Ladd, of Isabel Ladd Interiors, relies on Amazon for extra-long shower curtain liners—a rarity elsewhere—allowing her to create custom, ceiling-to-floor designs. Mehnaz Khan, principal designer at Color Conscious Living, discovered high-quality faux grasscloth wallpaper from Society Social, proving that even wall coverings can be sourced affordably and efficiently.
The smeg factor: appliances as decor
Francesca Grace, an interior designer and Home stager based in Los Angeles, sees more than just function in Amazon's offerings. “Even though SMEG products are practical appliances and kitchen items, they serve as countertop decor with their retro-chic vibe and fun colors,