Ithaca, NY, boasts a vibrant and eclectic home decor scene, offering a range of styles and price points to suit every taste. Whether you're searching for antique treasures, modern minimalist pieces, or handcrafted artisan goods, you're sure to find something special in this charming college town. This guide highlights 11 of the best home decor stores in Ithaca, ensuring your next home improvement project is a resounding success.
Unique Finds & Local Charm: Exploring Ithaca's Home Decor Scene
Ithaca's home decor scene is as diverse as its landscape. From cozy boutiques filled with vintage finds to modern showrooms showcasing cutting-edge designs, there's a store for every style and budget. Many shops highlight local artisans and sustainable practices, reflecting the community's commitment to environmental responsibility and supporting local businesses. This adds a unique charm not found in larger chain stores. This list combines established favorites with newer, exciting additions to the Ithaca home decor landscape, providing a comprehensive guide for your next decorating project.
Top 11 Home Decor Stores in Ithaca: A Style Guide
This curated selection showcases a variety of styles and price points, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your home.
1. The Ithaca Vintage Co.: This store is a treasure trove of vintage and antique home decor. Expect to find unique furniture pieces, quirky artwork, and charming accessories. It's perfect for those looking to add character and a touch of history to their homes.
2. Modern Surroundings: This store specializes in modern and minimalist home decor, with a focus on clean lines, neutral palettes, and functional designs. If you appreciate sleek aesthetics and contemporary style, this is the place to visit. They often feature locally made pieces, adding an extra layer of uniqueness.
3. The Giving Closet: This isn't your typical home decor store, but it offers a surprisingly delightful selection of upcycled and repurposed home goods. By supporting this charity shop, you can find unique and affordable items while contributing to a good cause.
4. The GreenStar Co-op: While primarily a grocery store, GreenStar’s home goods section features eco-friendly and sustainable home decor options. Expect to find items made from recycled materials, organic fabrics, and ethically sourced products. This option is perfect for the environmentally conscious shopper.
5. Collegetown Bagels (Home Goods Section): Yes, a bagel shop! Collegetown Bagels surprisingly stocks a small but carefully curated selection of home decor and gifts. It’s a fun place to pick up a unique, unexpected item.
6. Handmade Ithaca: This store showcases the work of local artisans and craftspeople. Find handcrafted pottery, jewelry, textiles, and other unique home decor items, perfect for supporting local talent and adding a personal touch to your home.
7. Wegmans (Home Goods Section): Like GreenStar, Wegmans offers a convenient option for everyday home goods and some decor items. This is a good option for basic needs and affordable options.
8. Target (Home Goods Section): The ubiquitous Target offers a wide selection of home decor at various price points. It’s a great option for finding trendy items and satisfying broader home decor needs.
9. HomeGoods (if in the area): If you're willing to travel slightly outside of Ithaca, HomeGoods is worth considering for a vast selection of discounted home decor and furniture. It's a treasure hunt for those looking for great deals.
10. Local Flea Markets and Antique Shops: Ithaca has several seasonal and year-round flea markets and antique shops sprinkled throughout the area. These offer a chance to discover unique and affordable home decor finds, including vintage furniture, artwork, and collectibles. Be sure to check local event listings for specific dates and locations.
11. Etsy and Online Marketplaces: Don’t forget the power of online shopping! Etsy and other online marketplaces offer a vast selection of handmade and vintage home decor items, often from independent sellers. You can find unique pieces that you may not find in local brick-and-mortar stores.
Finding Your Perfect Ithaca Home Decor Style: A Few Tips
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Define your style: Before you start shopping, take some time to consider your personal style. Are you drawn to modern minimalism, rustic charm, bohemian flair, or something else entirely? Knowing your style will help you focus your search and avoid buying items you won't love.
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Set a budget: Home decor can be expensive, so it’s crucial to set a budget before you start shopping. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.
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Consider the size and scale of your space: When choosing home decor items, consider the size and scale of your space. Oversized items can overwhelm a small room, while small items can get lost in a large one.
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Don’t be afraid to mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and textures to create a unique and personalized look.
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Support local businesses: Ithaca has many fantastic local businesses that offer unique and high-quality home decor. By supporting these businesses, you can help contribute to the local economy and find one-of-a-kind treasures.
This guide provides a solid starting point for your home decor journey in Ithaca. Remember to explore, discover, and have fun creating a space that reflects your unique personality and style. Happy decorating!
