Designer Briony shares her secrets to second-hand style

Quarter finalist on the BBC’s Interior Design Masters, Briony Ace has built a reputation for her earthy, organic style and love of second-hand. The interior designer finds many pre-loved gems in the Hospice’s charity shops, with items becoming special pieces in her own and client’s homes – even featuring on TV and in magazines.

“I love shopping at Hospice in the Weald,” said mum of two Briony. “It’s always been a stand-out for affordable, well priced items and raises funds for such a great cause. My favourites are the Oxted and Tunbridge Wells branches. I’m a regular – I love the ladies there!”

“There are so many incredible pieces. I can’t resist candlesticks, vintage pine, oak, brassware and crockery. For me a brass candlestick is a little piece of joy.”

designer briony with items from hospice shops

Briony’s top tips

Start small, use an item you fall in love with as inspiration
Set yourself a challenge – what can you buy for a tenner?
Look for quality – solid wood, real brass, anything with patina.
Be open to upcycling – consider sanding, waxing, or painting.
Don’t fear imperfection; perfectly imperfect is often best

Briony used a mirror from one of our shops when competing in 2025’s Design Masters series hosted by Alan Carr, while bargain vintage crockery and cutlery were highlights of her Christmas table in an Ideal Home Magazine feature.

“More people want to shop sustainably. The advantage of second-hand is getting quality at a bargain price. It makes creating a home more accessible to people who might otherwise feel it’s something they could never achieve.”