Delving into design studios and meeting makers and up-and-coming artists is a big part of Oakland-based interiors photographer Lauren Andersen’s working life.
It’s safe to say that the creative director and founder of boutique agency Sen Creative has an enviable eye for detail that’s able to recognize pieces and spaces that will make an impression with just a glance.
We asked Andersen her favorite spots for unique furniture, stunning art, and vivid textiles to not just to elevate our spaces, but to make them feel like our own. From vintage shops like Narrative in Oakland to Concord’s French-inspired Elsie Green, these are the seven spots she recommended for the next time your home needs a little upgrade.
Narrative
(Courtesy of @narrativeoakland)
“Narrative curates their space, and with everything being vintage, it’s always changing,” says Andersen. “There’s always a gem to find. Take your time, there’s lots of square footage, and everything is quality.”
Keep an eye out for: “Everything from quality furniture to ceramics to an odd object that makes you smile. I’ve bought many ceramics for photoshoots, and I have a beautiful oil painting of a woman by a local artist that is always finding its place within my home.”
// 590 2nd St. (Oakland), narrativeoakland.com
Elsie Green
(Courtesy of @elsie_green)
“I feel like I’m transported to a brocante in France when I walk into Elsie Green,” says Andersen. “They shop and send containers of goodies from France. They also have a great IG where you can see new goodies and how they suggest styling pieces.”
Keep an eye out for: “Vintage French ceramics, crockery, and amazing large antique furniture. I have picked up a few large antique crocks and jars, as well as some beautiful vintage silverware.”
// 2956 Treat Blvd., Ste. C (Concord), elsiegreen.comSobu Oakland
(Courtesy of @sobuoakland)
“Sobu Oakland creates their own lines and designs, and they are so unique,” says Andersen. “The shop is small, but you could furnish a whole home with what they carry. They’re pros.”
Keep an eye out for: “Their woodwork and dining tables are to die for, and their textile and pillow selection is very unique. Their warehouse sale is also a must-attend event. We bought our Christmas tree here. It’s cedar and copper and unique. It’s a very Scandinavian vibe, and guests are always complimenting it.”
// The Sobu Showroom is at 5451 College Ave. (Oakland); the Sobu Outlet is at 701 Dwight Way (Berkeley), sobusobu.com
Oakland Vintage Market
(Courtesy of @oaklandvintagemarket)
“Every first Saturday, Narrative hosts the Oakland Vintage Market (there is also one in SF) in the parking lot behind their shop in Jack London,” says Andersen. “The vendors rotate, and it’s small enough not to feel overwhelming. It feels like a community event with lots of kids, dogs, and great vintage.”
Keep an eye out for: “Clothing, records, books, and lots of smaller decorating pieces. My daughter loves the patch/pin vendor who is often there. I’ve also found a great mirror and vintage Japanese pottery.”
// 222 Jefferson St. (Oakland), narrativeoakland.com/market
25th Street Galleries + Open Studios
(Courtesy of @fmoakland)
“Uptown Oakland First Fridays are always a good time, and the stretch of galleries on 25th Street always delivers,” says Andersen. “There are artist studios as well as more formal galleries with amazing selections of fine art by Bay Area artists.”
Keep an eye out for: If you’re looking for a high-end piece with a 'wow' factor, or art consulting from Slate, this is the spot. We’ve bought a few screen prints from the artist studios, mostly scenes from our beloved Oakland.”
// Telegraph Ave. between West Grand and 27th St. (Oakland), oaklandfirstfridays.orgBay Home Consignment
(Courtesy of @bayhome)
“Like Narrative, Bay Home Consignment’s inventory is always changing, and you never know what you might find,” says Andersen. “They specialize in a wider range of furniture pieces, and everything is always in great condition. They have a large warehouse to browse, as well as some custom lines you can order. I love that you can ‘walk away’ with your purchase (or have it delivered that day), so no weeks of waiting.
Keep an eye out for: “Any major furniture pieces you may need, outdoor furniture, or vintage art. We bought our living room sofa, an Italian felt ottoman, and outdoor furniture.”
// 1825 Eastshore Hwy (Berkeley), bayhomeconsignment.com
CP Photos & Frames
(Courtesy of @cpphotosandframes)
“At CP in Berkeley, you can quickly get something custom matted or pop it into a premade frame for an affordable elevated look,” says Andersen. “It’s also affordable for custom framing, and the staff is super helpful and friendly.
Keep an eye out for: “Odd-sized frames and the fun framed art they sell. I’ve purchased many custom mattes, and a fun gilded art piece I saw on their wall one time.”
// 2999 College Ave. (Berkeley), cheappetes.com
