Affordable Designer Picks from Kishani Perera

I’m a big fan of interior designers that bring the funky. The flea market junkies, the eBay bandits, those who aren’t afraid to throw a great West Elm or CB2 piece into a room’s mix. Basically, the ones who know that you can find good design at any pricepoint. Kishani Perera is one of those designers. She’s the founder of her own firm in LA, where she uses a strong sense of color and pattern to create interiors that look hip without trying too hard. Believe me, that’s no easy feat. (Look for her work in the October issue of Sunset, and the November issue of InStyle.) When I interviewed Kishani for a piece for Marie Claire, I knew she was a girl after my own heart. That’s why I’ve asked her to kick off this new series, which will feature a designer’s top picks from a store that’s both affordable and accessible. Kishani’s got a soft spot for the Sundance Catalog (yep, Robert Redford’s behind this one, too), which features many unique, handcrafted wares for the home. Here, a few of her can’t-misses:

Helping Hands

Recycled cast iron hands function as both sculpture and jewelry storage. “I’m drawn to anything in the shape of a hand,” says Kishani. “Arrange a few of these in a cluster and load up with your necklaces and bracelets to create a useful display.” $38 each ($34 each for two or more).

Millfield Pillows

These hemp throw pillows, reminiscent of vintage feed sacks, have bold commercial logos emblazoned on the front. $60 each.

Meridian Pendant

“I love the simplicity of this pendant light. It somehow feels both modern and vintage at the same time.” $175 (or $150 for two or more).

Scrivener's Stool

“This stool is delicate and simple, with a hint of the industrial. It’d look at home in modern or traditional spaces,” says Kishani. The high back looks nice and supportive, too. Makes me want to buy a drafting table to go with it! $295.

Wright's Peak Wire Wall Storage

“It’s super rustic, funky, and practical,” says Kishani of this multi-purpose storage unit. This would be perfect in an apt entryway or mudroom to keep coats, hats, and gloves in easy reach. $195.

Hooked Dog Rug

“I just think this hand-hooked mat is really cute!” says Kishani. Enough said. $98.