Kristian Laliberte, senior editor, The Upper Rust
"On the days I'm walking home from work, I make an excuse to go a block out of my way (it's exercise!) to hit up this home decor emporium, which is located on what has to be one of the most charming stretches of sidewalk in NYC.
There's a jumble of look-at-me items outside the shop — giant clocks, vintage chairs, and oversized metal stars — while inside they stock everything from $35 framed postcards that make for perfect hostess gifts to heritage glassware and one-of-a-kind stationary. Next door, there's more substantial pieces, including light fixtures and graphic metal signs. The best part is that it never feels grubby — it's cleverly curation makes for one chic yardsale. Plus, the prices put Restoration Hardware to shame."

The Upper Rust
The Upper Rust, 445 East 9th Street (at First Avenue); 212-533-3953.


Photographed by Lia Schryver