We're sorry. An error has occurred
Please cancel or retry.
The Art of the Find
Some error occured while loading the Quick View. Please close the Quick View and try reloading the page.
-
10 November 2026

Turn Thrifted Finds into First-Rate Style
Discover how to design a beautiful home—without spending a fortune. In The Art of the Find, interior designer and secondhand shopping expert Paige Kontrafouris shares her secrets for creating timeless, designer-worthy spaces using vintage finds, estate sale gems, and DIY transformations.
Blending practical design principles with actionable thrift shopping advice, this guide empowers readers to create curated, stylish interiors on any budget. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, downsizer, or seasoned thrifter, you’ll learn how to plan your vision, shop smart, and turn overlooked items into statement pieces.
With tips on color theory, furniture styles, space planning, and sustainable decorating, this is the perfect resource for anyone who loves secondhand home decor or is looking for an inspiring thrifted home decor book.
Inside, you’ll find:
- How to source, style, and transform vintage finds into show-stopping decor
- Budget-friendly design tips for creating beautiful, cohesive spaces
- The best places to thrift, what to buy, and how to bring your vision to life
If you liked A Life Less Throwaway, Styled, or Relaxed Maximalism, you’ll love The Art of the Find.
“The Art of the Find goes beyond inspiration—it’s an invitation to understand the language of design and create spaces that feel deeply your own. Paige shares the formulas, foundations, and tangible tools that bring clarity and confidence to every design decision. More than anything, she empowers you to engage in the art of the find for yourself, giving you the knowledge to curate one-of-a-kind spaces that reflect your vision and tell your story.”
—Stephenie Watts, interior designer, boutique stay hotelier, and curator of retreat experiences
“Most artists and antique dealers hope their pieces end up in the right hands, and Paige has the most capable and imaginative hands in the game. This book is a guide to finding your own style, backed by knowledge, history, and wit.”
—Spencer Beck, artist
“Paige has written the blueprint for homemakers looking to craft a tastefully curated home with her chic, thrifted touch.”
—Kemp Harper, interior and lifestyle creator on Instagram
“With a background in interior design and a lifelong passion for thrifting and antiquing, Paige brings a unique blend of creativity, beauty, and heart to every page. Her eye for detail and love for timeless style shine through in her work. I couldn't be prouder of all she has created and accomplished.”
—Allison Battinelli
Introduction
- Welcome to The Art of the Find
- Why Secondhand? The Beauty of Thrifted Design
- How to Use This Book
Section 1: Style—Defining Your Aesthetic
- The Foundations of Great Design: Color, Pattern, and Scale
- Mixing and Matching: Creating a Cohesive Look with Found Pieces
- Understanding Design Eras and Furniture Styles
- Personalizing Your Space: The Power of Unique Finds
- Styling like a Pro: Layering Textures, Patterns, and Accessories
Section 2: Budget—Smart Spending for a Stylish Home
- Setting a Realistic Budget (and Sticking to It!)
- Where to Save, Where to Splurge
- The True Cost of Secondhand: What’s Worth the Investment?
- DIY vs. Professional Help: Knowing When to Tackle It Yourself
Section 3: Plan—Crafting Your Design Vision
- Assessing Your Space: Layout, Function, and Needs
- Creating a Mood Board: Organizing Your Design Ideas
- Shopping Secondhand with Purpose: What to Look for and What to Avoid
- Common Design Dilemmas and How to Solve Them (Cheat Sheets & Glossaries)
- Sustainable Decorating: How to Make the Most of What You Have
Section 4: Action—Bringing Your Vision to Life
- The Thrifting Mindset: Strategies for Finding Hidden Gems
- Estate Sales, Flea Markets, and Online Finds: Where to Shop and How to Score Deals
- Restoring, Refinishing, and Repurposing Secondhand Pieces
- Styling in Action: Real-Life Examples of Curated Spaces
- The Final Touches: Making Your Space Feel Complete
- Living with a Collected Home: Embracing Imperfection and Personality
Conclusion: Your Home, Your Story
Resources & Recommended Reading