The Cool Home Finds Designers Have Picked Up at Their Local Hardware Stores

While many designers leave the drywalling and tiling to the contractors, almost every one we’ve met has gotten their hands dirty in one way or another—whether it be on a client project or at their own house. They’ve perused the aisles of their local mom-and-pop hardware store, Home Depot, and Lowe’s hundreds of times and found some really good buys along the way, from greenery and decor to tools that get them out of sticky situations. Ahead, four designers share the best thing they ever bought at a hardware store. 

Statement Trees

We often go to Home Depot for last-minute trees. This one is a great example. —Corine Maggio, founder of CM Natural Designs

Hackable Lighting

Lighting shouldn’t be overlooked at big-box stores — the price points are beyond reasonable and leave room for modifications. I have zhuzhed up many lights with fabulous fabric, paint, and trim. I look for something super-economical I can spray-paint or reupholster. —Laura Collins, founder of For Porter

A Stone Sink

I’ve had real success with sinks from Home Depot. I got this chiseled stone vessel sink there for one of my projects and it is absolutely the stunner of the space. It looks custom. —Sam Sacks, founder of Sam Sacks Design

A Souped-Up Drill Kit

Why didn’t I think I needed a drill as a homeowner?! One day, I absolutely had to buy it for something and I’ve used it so many times since then. This one charges superfast, the battery lasts a long, long time, and it’s easy to swap bits. I feel like a pro when I’m using it.  —Amelia Strat, cofounder of Kroesser + Strat Design