She's known for being able to outfit and transform homes in her hit show Fixer Upper. Joanna Gains is able to pull off some amazing transformations, partly because she loves to go on the hunt for one-of-a-kind antiques.
On almost every episode of the HGTV show, we see her and Chip search for pieces both big and small at flea markets, auctions, and antique shops in the Texas area.
If you're trying to get better at spotting the deals like Joanna Gaines check out this list that the home renovators put together that will help you get better at using thrifty items in your home.
1. Architectural Pieces
Mixing up old and new pieces can really add to your home's decor.
With "stuff that's architectural and a little of unexpected," Joanna says. "Anything that came out of an old house or building that's kind of its own story. That's the kind of stuff I'm always looking for."
This means anything from old doors and windows to old corbels, spindles and gates will add the perfect touch to your home.
2. Ornate Frames
Who wants another picture from from IKEA? Find something as unique as your family when bargain hunting. Whether you want to use it in a photo gallery or something different like framing your kid's artwork, frames are always something to look out for when shopping.
"It's a fun play when you have your kids' artwork paired with an antique frame," she says.
Adding extra matting to make the kids' abstract work look a little more polished adds a nice touch too.
3. Strange Storage
Let me be honest, you can never have enough storage in your home.
"I'm always looking for storage, so anything that I can put in the living room that we can hide something under that's also a unique piece"”[like] old storage boxes and bins," Joanna says. "And I'm always looking for something you can store toys in but that's kind of cool and unique."
Joanna has transformed everything from old chicken coops to nesting boxes into perfect places for kids' toys and books.
4. Vintage Books
"I love antique books," Joanna admits. They are great ways to add interest into an empty bookshelf, table or mantel. This pop of color could be exactly what the room needs.
"They're quirky and make [a space] feel not so expected," she says.
And who knows, maybe one of the stories will strike some inspiration in you.
5. Old Light Fixtures
It's like a light went off, when you think about this item. When shopping Joanna always has her eye out for old light fixtures.
"Old light fixtures to incorporate in newer renovations," Joanna says. "When we're doing these renovations I always want it to feel like there's history there, and one way to incorporate that is using antique light fixtures that you [can] have rewired."
An interest light fixtures can really pull the room together and give it the unique vibe you may be looking for.
6. Knicknacks
While many of us admit that we have too much 'stuff' cluttering up our homes, we likely just don't have the right 'stuff' on the shelves.
"I love knickknack-type stuff for the bookshelves," she says. "I feel like bookshelves and open built-ins can feel a little stale, so for me it's finding these random little things that speak to you. I have this brass mouse that's so random, but to me it's just the cutest thing. It's those things that help tell your story."
So when you're shopping keep an eye open for little things that tell your story!
7. Old Signage
Her partner in crime, Chip Gaines admits that he can never pass up on old signage and letters.
"I love those letters!" Chip says.
The couple loves this feature so much that they even featured several in their iconic Magnolia brand logo.
They suggest using them in your own home as wall art or as a fun piece on your bookshelf.
What is your favorite transformation the couple has done?
Source: Good Housekeeping / Cheatsheet
