Finders Keepers

Tyra Banks thanks God that she likes curb finds. She uses her collection of found (or cheap) objects for displays in her new West Los Angeles store, Eclectic Mix. She moved into the 1,100-square foot space after closing a smaller store, and put her props to work. A circa 1950 range in the store window displays kitchen items and other accessories. "There isn't a day goes by that I don't get an offer for that stove," says Tyra. She removed the door of an old refrigerator to display magnets, and a 1920s Maytag wringer washer holds laundry detergents suitable for fine linens. Old fencing and mud-encrusted doors were cleaned up to display "shabby chic" merchandise. A period display case, an old nightstand, a washboard, found picture frames, and a much-used wicker chest set the tone for other displays. And when she couldn't find exactly what she was looking for, Tyra went to Home Depot and bought a chain-link gate. She painted it a metallic copper color, hung it from the ceiling, and uses it to display purses. Tyra's displays have even led to an added occupation: Her customers are hiring her to do interior design work.