The Spruce: I Asked Designers What They Always Buy on Amazon, and They Spilled All Their Secrets
This article was originally published in The Spruce on October 21, 2024
I chat with designers on a weekly basis, often about specific design projects they've completed. When something extra beautiful in one of their designs catches my eye, I'll often ask if they're up for sharing their source.
One thing I've noticed over the years is that many designers have a knack for sourcing the most unique items from the most common places, like Amazon.
But perusing Amazon can sometimes feel a bit like thrifting. You may have to sift through listings a bit to find some diamonds in the rough, but when you do, it's often a steal of a deal.
To help uncover some of these hidden gems, I chatted with two designers to learn about their go-to Amazon buys.
Bed Sheets
Photography: Amazon
Cozy sheets are inarguably one of the best things in life, and Samnotra has discovered one set that feels extra opulent (without the matching price tag). She's re-purchased these microfiber sheets by Danjor Linens multiple times.
"These sheets feel so luxe," she says. "That is not an exaggeration, friends. The microfiber material is breathable making it perfect for the warmer climates we have in Tampa. We use them in guest rooms for our clients and in our own homes."
Lamp Dimmers
Photography: Amazon
Even the most well-designed room needs flattering lighting to live up to its full potential. That's why Mazzarini swears by installing dimmers on even his table and floor lamps, which he says can make your home look luxe on a budget.
"Installing light dimmers works wonders," he says. "With a simple adjustment, you can create a warm mood or set the stage for a cozy movie night."
Creative Co-Op Products
Photography: Amazon
Be it she's looking for a terracotta lantern with a patina finish, a hand-forged metal candelabra, or a French country scalloped tray, Samnotra almost always turns to one Amazon Storefront.
"Creative Co-Op is a great home accent line that collaborates with artists all over the world," she says. "Their pieces are often handmade and will add character to your office built-ins, dining room sideboard, kitchen counter, and so on."
One piece she especially loves by this brand is the Wavy Scalloped Arched Metal Framed Wall Mirror since it combines a modern curve with a vintage gold finish.
Coffee Table Books
Photography: Amazon
For Mazzarini, coffee table books are for more than just inspiration. They're pieces of decor within themselves. He loves choosing books with varying colors and classy themes, like gardening, art, and fashion.
"We'll almost always start by stacking coffee table books and love to match the covers to pillows and throws for a fun, cohesive pop of color," he says.
Coffee table books also make beautiful bases for displaying small pieces of decor, candles, and coasters. If you could use a few more of these books in your life, it's hard to beat the prices on Amazon.
Tov Furniture Products
Photography: Amazon
Here's another decor line that Samnotra says never disappoints, especially when it comes to lighting.
"TOV Furniture is a line we use when we want to add a bit of fun," she says. "The brand is affordably accessible to retail consumers on Amazon, and it’s an excellent spot to find lamps. They are never boring."
Samnotra puts TOV Furniture products in any space that needs a bit of a trendy flair, like guest rooms, kids' rooms, offices, or entryways.
