THE THRILL OF THE HUNT: SHOPPING WEST PALM BEACH

My recent trip to West Palm Beach's Dixie Highway was about the thrill of the hunt. This now well known strip of highway has been trolled by many an interior designer, and shops such as Lars Bolander and Mecox Gardens have migrated over from Worth Avenue and joined the mix.
I was supposed to be taking a little Easter break, but I had to get out and go. I had to see what I was missing. The 85 degree weather did not keep me tethered to a chaise by the pool; I knew I had to get cracking and go shop! My quest took me down the strip, filled not so glamorous shopping malls that held trash and treasures. Here are some of my great finds that I hope you will enjoy, and possibly even buy. I resisted sending a container back to NYC, but maybe you will have less restraint!

CIRCA WHO 531 Northwood Road was started by Tracy DeRamus, who really enjoys picking through estate sales and tag sales for vintage finds. Her store is chock a block-- filled to the rafters with a great selection of Palm Beach Regency punchy lamps, fretwork headboards, quirky objects and garden furniture. It has become a favorite of many interior designers on the both the East and West coasts.

A set of Chinese Chippendale Chairs greeted me upon my arrival

A yellow faux bamboo shelf and mirror painted in a sunny yellow would be great in a bathroom

A tall chest of drawers was already sold

bamboo fretwork mirrors awaiting perusal

a painted metal etagere with fun lamps

A bamboo desk and Gothic metal chairs (there were six of them)

Who doesn't love a wicker elephant side table?

RE VUE ANTIQUES 3701-3703 South Dixie Highway

They have no website and that is how they like it. Each find is fresh and you have to check back often. This spot is more "thrill of the find" than the others.

A set of yellow lettuce patterned china made in Portugal in the Dodie Thayer style. Love it!

A side table with rope detailing

Italian brass chairs are perfect for a vanity

This horseshoe desk was great

This chippendale chair was a total find- the faux tortoise finish and unusual arm made great

Crazy tole lamps

This tiny chest would make a sweet side table

If you are looking for tole flower chandeliers, you will have lots of luck here

A pair of faux malachite painted brackets

For a Yalie

CASHMERE BUFFALO 3709 South Dixie Highway has a mix of mid-century modern, vintage table linens and great accessories

The two room space has some real finds and deals

I have never seen this many tole painted chandeliers as I did here, take your pick!

Great lamps

A stunning assortment of coral necklaces

Vintage jewelery and funky vases

A blanc de chine moment

This refinished bench was a total steal

HEATH AND CO 3707 South Dixie Highway is well known for their lighting, as well as their amazing rewiring skills. If you buy a lamp that needs work, take it here.

This bamboo table was hidden under stuff was going for a song

A bamboo bar cart on wheels was hard to pass up

More painted tole on a larger scale

BRASS SCALE ANTIQUES 3719 South Dixie Highway tends towards the English style of antiques and decorative accessories.

Another ode to Dodie Thayer lettuce ware, this set is 18th Century Italian and I covet it.

You have to spend some time looking but there are some fun things

WILSON ANTIQUES 3716 South Dixie Highway has two shops next door to one another. This is for big time painted Italian pieces, French over scale chandeliers, and Swedish chairs in light aged finishes. I was wowed and it was hard to leave.

The view from the door

Check out the pair of star mirrors

This small pedestal table was a beauty

Iron pieces, aged garden ornaments and incredible mirrors were everywhere I turned

Big game anyone? Not to worry, he is wooden.

This pair of patinated bronze French 1940's sconces were statement pieces.

For the garden

DOLCE ANTIQUES 3700 South Dixie Highway is a visit for the amazing loot and quirky selection.

Looking for something zany? A bric a brac mix of over the top vintage ephemera, signage and more can be found here.

Another set of Portugese yellow lettuce ware plates. Why must you be everywhere when I do not have the shelf space for you?

This pair of unusual panels from the 960's depicting fruits and vegetables was fabulous.

These belong in a restaurant.

A brass and black glass mirror was sharp

THE PALM BEACH ANTIQUE AND DESIGN CENTER 6910 South Dixie Highway. This center is a bit further down and I went at the suggestion of New York based interior designer Christina Murphy. It is a large space with sectioned off areas. You will find a lot of mid century as well as Italian 1970's things.