Owen Lawrence stocks accessories sold only in the South

The Owen Lawrence store off Howell Mill Road first appeared in 2004 on the tonier side of Buckhead, not far from the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. But so many customers mistook the location as an extension of the arts center that owners Owen Halpern and Lawrence Pritchard opted to relocate to the city’s west side two years ago.

Their mission remained unchanged: To bring to the Southeast a variety of home decor items that aren’t already stocked in other stores.

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H. M. Cauley / AJC Special

Owen Lawrence on Atlanta’s west side stocks several lines of china and dishware sold only in the South.

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“We look for companies that have no representation here in the states,” said Halpern. “We carry several brands that are exclusive to the South that come with great design, craftsmanship and quality. And our customers know that they won’t see these items in every other store in town.”

The cinder block showroom with its exposed duct work ceilings is packed with home and gift items, but the main focus is tabletop. China place settings range from $50 to $1,600. A bridal registry keeps track of purchases for newlyweds.

What you’ll find

Several shelves are lined with Salviati shot glasses, stemware and vases. Another section is devoted to sterling silver tea sets, vases, candlesticks, goblets and pitchers, many based on classic Italian designs. Photo frames, drink trays, platters and mirrors match with coffee, end and sofa tables. Upholstered furniture from Austria is available, and there’s a collection of leather sofas.

In the china room, walls are lined with collections of dining and serving pieces. From Sieger, there are plates in pale blue with red florals, tea pots and serving bowls with lids that invert to become servers themselves. There are 24 colors of German Arzberg porcelain, starting at $72.50 for a five-piece place setting.

With such an extensive selection of china, the owners encourage customers to think beyond just one pattern.

Trends

Buyers also are going green. A line of green-tinted Spanish glassware made from recycled glass has developed a following. “At the same time, buyers are looking for value,” said Halpern. “They want something that has a great look and comes at a great price.”

Best sellers

Diffusers and candles have always been an Owen Lawrence mainstay. A new soy-based line from Aquiesse comes in colored glass holders with lids that double as bases ($30). There’s also a portable version in a travel tin for $10.

Another popular purchase is the ceramic dish warmer with ridges that hold tea candles for warmth. And the aromatic sofa throws are hard to keep in stock. The soft, washable blankets come with a hint of scent in lemon, orange, raspberry, strawberry and the most-in-demand, chocolate ($70).

WHERE TO FIND IT

Owen Lawrence

1200-A Howell Mill Road

Info: 404-869-7360, www.owenlawrence.com

Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday

In the area: Atlanta’s west side is home to a variety of home decor stores as well as the popular food destinations of Star Provisions, Taqueria del Sol, Figo Pasta and West Egg Café.