For a neighborhood known for its cutting-edge fashion sense and boisterously colorful street art, the East Village is home to a surprising number of home décor shops that offer muted modern wares and elegantly curated collections. Grab your measuring tape, and let’s take a tour of the best East Village spots for housewares and furnishings — just in time for Spring cleaning!
117 E. 7th St. near Avenue A
Still House (Image: Courtesy of Still House)
Founded in 2011 by Urte Tylaite, Still House began with a curated selection of jewelry, art objects, and home goods, and has since grown to include a signature wholesale jewelry line and an online store. Many might label Still House’s products minimalist, but to be sure, they bring maximum design impact to your humble abode. These cast glass topaz spike bowls from Hudson Beach Glass are perfect for holding jewelry or keys, and the Craighill Jack puzzle strikes the perfect whimsical tone on your bookcase.
304 E. 5th St. near Second Avenue
White Trash (Image: Courtesy of White Trash)
Proud of the value they provide to their shoppers, White Trash offers mid-century modern furnishings from the 1940s through the 1970s. Here, you’ll find storage, seating, tables, lighting and much more. If you’re decorating your office and want to strike the perfect Don Draper-vibe, go for this 1963 black leather executive’s chair with aluminum trim or this 1950s brass and teak table lamp. Inventory changes often at this small East Village furniture destination, so check their store and website often.
207 Ave. A at 13th Street
Obscura Antiques & Oddities (Image: Curious Expeditions/Flickr)
Obscura Antiques & Oddities is the place to shop if you — or someone you love — is into the more macabre side of home décor. Here, you can decorate your guest bathroom with an assortment of antique medicine bottles, or host the perfect ghoulish game night with bone dice and devilish decks of cards. One of the most impressive pieces is a bona fide 1930s sideshow banner advertising the “Torture-Proof Man.” It’s equally impressive price tag: $4,500. Be sure to check the store’s Facebook page for new arrivals or shop the oddities directly from their online store.
18 Cooper Square at 5th Street
Interesting objects at Lost City Arts (Image: Jean-François Renaud/Flickr)
Owner James Elkind has travelled the world to collect and curate the pieces at Lost City Arts, which celebrates 35 years in business this year. With an impressive and expansive inventory, including this lovely Danish credenza, this American turned magnolia vase and this striking Finnish pendant light, you’re sure to find something for the room or from the country your design needs dictate.