Shopping Magic
New York’s ABC Carpet & Home: Prato Duvet Cover
Discover the best quirky home-furnishing boutiques across North America — distinctive shops where personality, craftsmanship, and unexpected finds turn a house into a one-of-a-kind home. Whether you’re updating a room, hunting for a statement piece, or curating a layered, lived-in look, these boutiques offer curated selections and design-forward pieces you won’t find at big-box stores.
Toronto’s 313 Design Market: Gejst Sapoto Bowls
Why shop at a design boutique?
Unique, limited-run pieces that lend character and authenticity.
Expert staff who guide styling, sourcing, and custom orders.
Support for independent makers and small-scale manufacturing.
Better-quality materials and handmade details that age gracefully.
Portland Oregon’s Cargo is an eclectic treasure hunt of makers
Top boutiques to explore
New York City — ABC Carpet & Home is a Big Apple institution filled with boutique departments on multiple floors, each with a gallery-like approach: vintage rugs, playful modern ceramics, bold textiles, and much more. Ideal for urban homeowners who want artful layering and statement accents with metropolitan polish.
Toronto — 313 Design Market is a well curated collection of unique accessories, rugs, furniture, storage systems, etc. Reviewers love it as a place where you can pick up thoughtful gifty home goods.
Portland (OR) — Cargo is a mecca for makers of all things crafty and unique. Curated for homeowners who favor artisan collaboration and a relaxed, creative vibe.
Austin — Canvas Showroom is a collection of fine textiles and unique items for the home, curated by designer Christina Cole.
Montreal — Nuspace is all about comfortable, stylish contemporary furnishings and home goods at affordable prices.
Los Angeles — Goodies is one of those pioneering design stores that has taken a populist approach to beautiful objects for the home … they believe everyone should be able to have a beautiful home, and they are known for their curation of warm, lovely objects with nothing over the $25 price point.
Chicago — RIGHT PROPER is a haven for antiques and home goods that tell a story and are celebrated for their beauty and utility. Collected by art and antiques excpert Erik Retzer, this store and online shopping experience is rated one of the best in the U.S.
Seattle — Digs is a family-owned decor and design store committed to small businesses and unique makers. Furniture, kitchen goods, decor, lighting, and gifts make up their extensive inventory. A nice antidote to big box stores.
Denver — The Lark has been a staple of the Mile High city for 50 years, and deservedly so. The store and online boutique offers a beautifully curated array of hand-crafted items, decor, home goods, and gifts, all chosen with an eye for refreshing any home.
Miami — Violetas Home Design offers an impressive array of home decor and gifts for the home that will satisfy the most discerning homeowner. Lighting and furniture also to be had at Violetas, too.
Austin’s Canvas Showroom: Lance Woven Leather in Plum Forest - use it to order a custom pillow, ottoman, or panels
Violetas in Miami: Richard Ginori fine Italian porcelain dinnerware
How to shop these boutiques effectively
Bring measurements and photos of your space; many offer in-store styling consultations.
Ask about customization and lead times — many pieces are made to order.
Inquire about shipping and white-glove delivery for large items.
Mix boutique finds with classic staples to balance longevity and personality.
Montreal’s Nuspace: Edge Ramen Bowls
Make your home unmistakably yours. Shopping small and quirky design boutiques will unlock rare pieces that tell a story. These North American boutiques are not just stores — they’re sources of inspiration, craftsmanship, and personality. Visit, discover, and let a few standout items transform your rooms from ordinary to unforgettable.
For More Information, see House Beautiful’s The Best Home Stores in America.