There's nothing quite like the feeling of stumbling upon a new antique shop that's filled to the brim with rare, out-of-this-world finds. It takes some of us a lifetime to discover the very best shops the nation (or even just our hometown) has to offer. But for Nate Berkus, antique shopping is simply part of the nine-to-five.
With loads of experience sourcing and styling vintage and antique goods, the world-renowned interior designer has visited antique shops worldwide. But with roots and a family home in New York City, he's compiled a tried-and-true list of quality antique shops in the Big Apple and beyond. These are Nate's favorite places to antique in New York – and a bit farther northeast, fit for those who love a quick road trip.
Nate's top antique shopping spots, from New York City to Connecticut
It's no secret that New England and the East Coast are treasure troves for historic architecture and storied antique goods. But it takes a trained eye to pare down the enormous list of antique fairs and shops scattered across the states. Luckily, Nate's done just that – your antique shopping trip is saved.
1. Mantiques Modern
Nate's first pick is Mantiques Modern, a sprawling vintage shop located in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood. With a specialty in 20th-century 'designer furniture, art and objects,' this is a one-of-a-kind find that's stocked with a constantly updated selection. With items from vintage Gucci salt and pepper shakers shaped like penguins to an Andy Warhol rug, there's no shortage of unique items to be found in-store and online.
To commemorate 50 years in business, the shop announced a temporary partnership with Bergdorf Goodman in 2019 – a testament to its reputation amongst designers and customers. Still selling out of the 4,000-square-foot shop on West 22nd Street today, Mantiques Modern is a Nate Berkus go-to: 'They have an unbelievably cool selection of vintage luxury and small items for the home,' says Nate.
2. Showplace
The next Nate Berkus selection is Showplace, home to a designer retail showroom, dealer galleries and bi-weekly auctions. Situated between Manhattan's Flatiron and NoMad neighborhoods, this three-story vintage is a gold mine of drool-worthy finds. The shop is stuffed with antique furniture, jewelry, artwork and more – plus, you'll get the chance to shop Nate Berkus-approved pieces in person.
'I think they have an incredible selection. There are lots of dealers who have been in the business selling antiques and decorations, even vintage fashion, for years ... I have a space there as well, but when I go, I usually don't go to my own space – I go to everybody else's. Almost everything, actually, in the three stories of vintage and furniture and fashion is online,' says Nate.
3. Stamford, CT
Heading outside of the city with his suggestions, Nate recommends making the trip up to Stamford, Connecticut – a town boasting tons of stunning antique pieces. 'An incredible, incredible town, filled with warehouses of vintage and antique furniture. So that's an amazing resource if you're ever on the East Coast,' Nate says.
4. Norwalk, CT
Just under 10 miles away, you'll find the city of Norwalk, another of Nate's go-to locations for antiquing adventures. With plenty of shops, fairs and pop-ups to choose from, you won't be able to leave empty-handed.
'It is a little bit further from Manhattan – it's about an hour and a half – but my team and I go there all the time to pull for bookshelves and accessories and pottery. You can find amazing deals on really beautiful things,' he says.
If you're lucky enough to live near New York, or if you're planning an antiquing trip in the area soon, keep these picks in mind. Who better to recommend hidden gems than Nate? The celebrated designer has built his career on curating gorgeous spaces that feature only the best antiques, and with these suggestions, you'll be one step closer to the transitional style you've been searching for.
