Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, a film set in Savannah, Georgia, is as oft-remembered for its shots of gorgeous gardens and interiors as it is for its eccentric characters. A quick stroll through the city proves that that’s no accident: With a well-organized Downtown Design District and a bevy of antiques shops, the Hostess City of the South is a destination for high-quality, one-of-a-kind home design. Looking to recreate a little of that Southern magic in your own home? These boutiques offer friendly smiles and charming decor.
One Fish Two Fish. Our favorite of the Downtown Design District group, One Fish Two Fish is the definition of Southern chic. The eclectic, airy boutique sells everything from comfy couches to coral napkin holders, making it the perfect place to pick up a unique housewarming gift. We especially like the vintage finds—owner Jennifer Grayson makes sure a story is attached to each one—and constantly changing themed table displays. With so many unique ideas to choose from, it’s no wonder national magazines frequently turn here for inspiration.
401 Whitaker St.; 912-447-4600
ShopSCAD. The Savannah College of Art & Design hosts an impressive gallery of student and alumni wares in this dreamy, densely packed store. The paintings of undergrad and local artists line the walls all the way up to the vaulted ceilings, while picture frames, pillows, glasses, and dinnerware spill out of antique cabinets. One-of-a-kind chairs and lounges are also standout finds. While some protest that the prices can skew too high for student goods, the inventory is unique.
340 Bull St.; 912-525-5180
The Paris Market & Brocante. This massive bazaar-style boutique is a definite must-see. Inspired by the eclectic flea markets of France, owner Paula Danyluk regularly travels to Egypt, Budapest, Russia, and other exotic locales to stock her two-level store with vintage furniture and home decor. Artisan bath goods from Tocca, old-fashioned barware, and an eye-catching collection of light fixtures round out the rest of the slightly overwhelming selection. If all the browsing tuckers you out, head to the in-store coffee bar for frozen hot chocolate and sweets from local bake shop Two Smart Cookies.
36 West Broughton St.; 912-232-1500
No. Four Eleven. The surprisingly versatile prep-sophisticate aesthetic of this youthful boutique means bright colors, crisp patterns, and sturdy, classic furniture. Best known for its extensive monograming services, the staff at No. Four Eleven will also work with you to personalize everything from burlap totes to baby blankets. Creative gifts for babies and newlyweds come in a wallet-friendly price range.
411 Whitaker St.; 912-443-0065
Fabrika. Do-it-yourselfers spend hours sifting through the fabrics, buttons, and sewing notions offered by SCAD alumnae Kendrah White’s cozy storefront. At Fabrika, you can find all the tools and materials necessary to customize quilts, pillows, and clothes with a cheerful Southern slant, as well as a small but lovely selection of pre-made gifts and hand-sewn bags.
140 Abercorn St.; 912-236-1122
24e. A family furniture showroom re-done by the founder’s son, contemporary-cool 24e feels more urban than the rest of downtown Savannah’s home design stores. The sleek, forward-thinking furniture has a decidedly Scandinavian edge, while whimsical mirrors, lamp bases, and other fun home accents showcase the boutique’s Southern roots. Be sure to take the elevator upstairs to see modern bedroom and living area furniture arrangements.
24 East Broughton St.; 912-233-2274
Circa Lighting. The lamps, chandeliers, and wall fixtures of this well-stocked lighting boutique are an appealing mix of rustic charm and modern simplicity. The versatile brass, silver, chocolate-hued, and cream-colored bases—designed by big names such as Michael Smith, interior designer to the Obamas—will work in a variety of decors, and options are available for floor, ceiling, and tables. Check out the extensive selection of exterior lamps, perfect for recreating the inviting glow of quaint Savannah neighborhoods.
405 Whitaker St.; 912-447-1008
Abercorn Antiques Village. This massive antiques emporium spans 8,000 square feet and features items from more than 50 dealers. Situated in a historic mansion, cottage, and carriage house, the emporium carries heirloom silver, 18th-century European armoires, wrought-iron chairs, and more. If you’re serious about coming home with some elegant, traditional home decor, we recommend setting aside an entire afternoon to peruse the inventory. Pieces come from France and England as well as the estates of prominent local residents, and fashionistas will not be disappointed by the large selection of vintage costume jewelry.
201 East 37th St.; 912-233-0064
Sarah is the Editor-in-Chief of Washingtonian Bride & Groom, and writes about weddings, fashion, and shopping. Her work has also appeared in Refinery29, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington City Paper, among others. She is a Georgetown University graduate, lives in Columbia Heights, and you can find her on Instagram at @washbridegroom and @sarahzlot.
