Second hand furniture abodes well for Hackney
Scandi-chic at Chase and Sorensen
In an age defined by a craving for ‘authenticity’, there is perhaps nothing quite so authentic as buying second-hand furniture.
Not only is it a means of obtaining household trappings that are more inexpensive and environmentally-friendly, but it also makes for a more discerning sense of style in your abode. Here is our pick of Hackney’s best second-hand furniture shops.
The Dog and Wardrobe
First up is The Dog and Wardrobe. A small space at Regent Studios off Broadway Market, open on the weekend (or on weekdays by appointment), they have everything from desk lamps and globes to bigger pieces such as tables and chairs.
Owners Jane and V are designers during the rest of the week and are willing to source specific items for customers on request, giving the shop a distinctly personal touch.
Retro Zebra
A warehouse rather than a shop, Retro Zebra stocks an array of mid-century Danish furniture and lighting.
“These pieces have lasted over 50 years already unlike modern cheap flatpack furniture and will only continue to increase in value and desirability,” shop owner Karina told the Hackney Citizen.
The distinction of “warehouse” means an appointment for viewing is necessary. And not all stock is on display, so if you’re looking for something particular, best let them know in advance.
Chase and Sorensen
For a similarly Scandinavian look, you might want to cast an eye at Chase and Sorensen on Dalston Lane.
Though some of their goods are contemporary, they have a nice selection of 1940s, 50s and 60s furnishings sourced directly from Denmark every few weeks.
“The simple lines and details make many vintage designs have a timeless feel and yet at the same time their history has the ability to add depth and character to an interior,” shop owner Kristina Sorensen told the Hackney Citizen.
Feng Shui-improving: Rouge stocks restored Chinese furniture. Photograph: Rocio Chacon
Rouge
But if the continental European aesthetic isn’t exotic enough, then Rouge in Stoke Newington offers a range of rustic north Chinese vintage furniture.
The pieces are hand-picked by shopkeeper Lei Yang, who gets the items restored in artisan workshops in rural Beijing before bringing them back to London.
Paradise Works
Paradise Works has perhaps one of the best selections of restored pieces. Off the Lea Bridge Road, it is a large shared space between three of London’s best second-hand furniture stores: Archive Furniture, House Of Twenty and Bennet and Brown.
Open only on weekends, the spaciousness of Paradise Works allows the businesses to display their larger furniture pieces.
Bennet and Brown
If you are worried an item you are buying isn’t in the best condition, then you should stop by the main store of the aforementioned Bennet and Brown.
The Finsbury Park business are furniture restorers specialising in upholstery work, French polish and woodwork.
Owner Dominic Bennet said: “Things from 60 years ago have much more longevity than anything from now. And then there’s the green element too – secondhand effectively means that you’re recycling.