Let’s be honest: sourcing unique, one-of-a-kind pieces for our homes is the ultimate dream—but it’s often much harder than it sounds. So when Anne Hepfer, luxury interior designer and upcoming author of MOOD, shared her go-to resource for incredible finds, we were all ears.
What item made your work life easier this week/month/lately?
Anne Hepfer: Sourcing on 1stDibs, the luxury online marketplace responsible for pushing the antique business into the 21st century.
How did you discover this item?
AH: As an interior designer, it’s our responsibility to know our trades well and have a strong relationship with our suppliers. I have worked with 1stDibs since they launched in 2000.
Will you use this item in the future?
AH: Yes, I will absolutely use 1stDibs in the future. When handling multiple products at once, it can be really stressful having to deal with shipping delays and backorders, so the fact that 1stDibs can get high-quality products to me quickly is such a stress relief.
How has this item made your job easier?
AH: 1stDibs has category specialists at the ready to help with your sourcing. We’ll send them inspiration images, dimensions, and specifications, and ask them to find us some options—they always deliver.
How might someone not in your line of work benefit from this item?
AH: It’s a literal treasure chest of inspiration across all areas of design from jewelry and fashion, to art and furnishings.
What, if anything, would you change about this item?
AH: As an American living in Canada, I’ve come to really appreciate locally made goods. I’d love to see more original pieces from Canadian sellers/makers.
Are there any care/use tips someone considering this item should know about?
AH: Every item is listed for a price, but there is always an option to “make an offer. So I say, name your price! You never know how eager someone may be to sell their item. Ask for what you want, and you might just get a deal.
