As an interior designer, leftover materials, fixtures, and furnishings are inevitable. Whether it’s an unused Kallista faucet, a Visual Comfort sconce, or a Waterworks towel bar, figuring out what to do with surplus inventory is a common challenge.
So, where can you resell high-end design items while still benefiting your business? Let’s explore the best resale and donation strategies designers use to clear out overstock.
Step 1: Sell Through Instagram Stories or a Separate Account
Social media is a powerful sales tool—especially for one-of-a-kind interior design items. Many designers use Instagram Stories or create dedicated resale accounts to sell extra pieces.
millieturnerdesigns shared her approach:
“We sell via our Stories on IG every 3-6 months once we build up a stock of things and want to give storage a clear out.”
How to Implement This:
Post items on Instagram Stories with pricing and direct messages for inquiries. Create a separate resale account showcasing discounted overstock items. Offer local pickup to avoid expensive shipping costs.
Step 2: Use Online Marketplaces for High-End Resale
If you want to reach a wider audience, online resale platforms can help connect you with buyers looking for high-end interior design pieces.
A few designers have found success with these platforms:
- eBay – Great for selling luxury fixtures, hardware, and decor.
- Chairish – Specializes in curated, high-end furniture and decor resale.
- Facebook Marketplace – Works well for local sales with no shipping hassle.
- 1stDibs Trade Program – Best for luxury, collectible, or antique pieces.
How to Implement This:
List items with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions. Set competitive prices based on market demand and condition. Highlight brand names like Waterworks, Kallista, and Visual Comfort to attract buyers.
Step 3: Consign Through a Local Design Store
Selling to fellow designers through a trusted store can be a great way to offload extra pieces while supporting local businesses.
scarletreagan offered this opportunity:
“I own a store in Dallas and keep a Sale Table in the back for odds and ends. I’m always surprised, but people buy these items. Any designers in Dallas are welcome to contact me, and I’m happy to look at what you have and, if it works, consign it for you.”
How to Implement This:
Find local home decor boutiques or consignment stores that accept high-end design items. Contact the store owner to see if they offer designer resale options. Agree on a consignment split (many stores take 30-50% of the sale price).
Step 4: Donate to Charitable Organizations
If selling isn’t a priority, donating leftover materials and fixtures can help good causes while clearing out space.
Designers frequently donate to organizations like:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores – Accepts gently used home improvement items.
- Local shelters & women’s facilities – Some need furnishings and home essentials.
- Disaster relief programs – Helps communities rebuilding after natural disasters.
newenglandhomeandinteriors shared:
“We like to donate what we can. I encourage people to reach out to shelters, women’s facilities, and other local donation places that might need some materials or furnishings. If you can, it’s a nice start.”
How to Implement This:
Research local organizations that accept home improvement items. Schedule a donation pickup for larger items like fixtures and furniture. Keep donation receipts for tax deduction purposes.
Step 5: Avoid Overstock by Adjusting Procurement Habits
While selling and donating are great options, the best strategy is to avoid accumulating excess inventory in the first place.
How to Implement This:
Order only what’s needed instead of stockpiling extra materials. Keep track of client-approved purchases to minimize errors. Use surplus creatively by repurposing items into future projects.
The Bottom Line: Turn Overstock into Opportunity
Instead of letting extra inventory sit in storage, resell, donate, or strategically repurpose it to benefit your business.
Use Instagram Stories or a dedicated resale account to sell directly. List items on high-end resale platforms like eBay and Chairish. Partner with local design stores for consignment opportunities. Donate to charitable organizations if resale isn’t an option. Prevent overstock by refining your procurement process.
By following these strategies, you’ll clear out excess inventory while maximizing its value—whether through sales, goodwill, or smart project planning.
How do you handle extra design materials? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
