Fill a Room
It seems like the thing to do when a person gets a new apartment or home is to scurry to IKEA to fill their space with cheap furniture and trinkets.
I've got to admit, I've done it in the past-but have since realized that I'm looking for a bit more these days. I've upgraded to furniture that is weathered and used, antiques (maybe), retro (possibly), classic (sounds good to me).
Where my friends and I go for these finds is at the warehouse sized store on the hill on Ponce called Paris on Ponce. The large orange warehouse sits high atop a hill overlooking the equally large building that in the past held City Hall East.
Paris on Ponce is part high end antique store, part junk store, part air conditioned, and part stifling heat one thing that you can count on is a good time when you're among such and array of interesting pieces. Couches, mirrors, frames, antlers-just about anything a person with a bit of money to blow could find a way to incorporate into their home's décor.
Judy the owner couldn't be nicer, and as long as you walk up with a smile on your face she'll gladly work with you on the price. Recently I found a framed medical poster from the turn of the century-the price was way out of my budget, but after a short talk and pleasantries, Judy gave me a great deal. The poster is now the focal point of my living room (much to the chagrin of my girlfriend).
http://www.parisonponce.com/shop/