We are thrilled to welcome the talented Nikki Dalrymple to our Complementary. Guest Curations series! Known for her skillful blend of vintage influences with a contemporary flair, Nikki’s aesthetic is a striking mix of bold color, organic textures, and an eclectic combination of vintage and modern art.

Named one of 2024’s leading designers by Designers Today magazine, Nikki has a reputation for creating inviting, timeless spaces with a modern twist. Her work is featured in both local and national publications, as well as interior design books.

Today, Nikki shares her favorite finds from current auctions and offers a peek into her design philosophy.

Nikki Dalrymple’s Love for Estate Sales and Online Auctions

For Nikki, the thrill of the hunt is more than just a hobby — it’s an essential part of her design process.

Early in her career as a set designer for television documentaries, Nikki turned to estate sales to find affordable, unique pieces that fit tight budgets and quick turnaround times. “The magic of estate sales” became part of her creative toolkit, helping her source one-of-a-kind items that gave her designs personality and warmth.

Even today, Nikki continues to embrace estate sales and online auctions as valuable sources for high-quality, distinctive items.

"It’s an affordable way to find treasures that cannot be found in mainstream stores," Nikki says.

Whether it is an antique silver candlestick, a vintage painting, or a mid-century modern chair, these pieces not only come at a fraction of their retail price but also bring timelessness to her designs.

Blending Design Aesthetic with Unexpected Finds

Nikki’s design aesthetic revolves around creating spaces that feel both warm and collected, with a mix of contemporary art and antique furnishings.

“I’m drawn to pieces that are classic with a twist,” Nikki explains.

She believes that a well-chosen vintage find can add character and soul to any room, making it feel lived-in and personal — exactly what she strives for in her designs.

Nikki’s auction picks reflect this philosophy. Take, for example, Charles Ransom's "White Urn" oil on canvas (1962), a sophisticated piece that effortlessly blends both modern and vintage interiors or the fantastic collection of leather-bound books and bookends, which would add elegance to any bookshelf.

Charles Ransom's "White Urn" Oil on Canvas (1962)

Fantastic Collection of Leather-Bound Books and Bookends

Nikki also gravitates toward antique portraits, small bronze sculptures, and quirky pieces like signed Curtis Jere bronze sculpture of a boy ringing a bell (1971).

Signed Curtis Jere Bronze Sculpture, Boy Ringing Bell (1971)

Each of these finds is more than just decor. Each brings a sense of history and personality into the spaces they fill.

The Joy of Bidding: Nikki’s Must-Have Auction Finds

Nikki’s passion for estate sales and online auctions has evolved into an ongoing treasure hunt.

“It’s hard to pick just one favorite,” she laughs. “The list goes on and on…”

From sterling silver salt shakers to vintage oil paintings, her current auction wish list is as diverse as her design style:

Set of Twelve Mauser Mfg. Co. NY Sterling Silver Salt and Peppers, 14.34 Ozt.

Set of Fifteen Tiffany & Co. Service Plates

Austin Shaw Oil on Canvas, Portrait of an Officer

Signed Stuart Oil on Panel, Vast Landscape with Trees and Pond

18k Yellow Gold Woven Mesh Bracelet

19th C. Oil On Canvas, Portrait Of A Gentleman

Collection Of Eleven Weighted Sterling Items, Including Candlesticks And A Vase

Unexpected Finds: The Thrill of the Auction

For Nikki, going to an auction with an open mind is key. While she has her favorites, she’s always open to discovering something unexpected.

“It’s about being open to surprises,” Nikki explains. “I never know what I’ll find, and that’s the beauty of it.”

Her most recent rare find? A collection of mercury glass finials on bronze stands from the late 1800s. These stunning pieces add an artistic touch to her living room and reflect her love for unique, one-of-a-kind treasures.

When it comes to bidding, Nikki’s approach is simple: keep your eyes on the prize, but never forget the joy of discovering something unexpected.

“The rush of finding something unique is addictive,” she admits.

The Joy of Shopping with Black Rock Galleries

Whether it’s a rare find or an everyday treasure, Nikki’s experiences at Black Rock Galleries show just how rewarding shopping at online auctions can be. From the thrill of bidding to the satisfaction of scoring a deal, Black Rock Galleries continues to be a go-to destination for her.

And when asked about her favorite purchase from Black Rock Galleries, Nikki mentions her Beaux Arts Plaster Boar’s Head—an unusually fascinating piece she found at an auction.

“It most likely came from a French butcher shop,” she explains, “and it hangs proudly over the door of my scullery.”

This find is a perfect example of how Nikki blends quirky vintage items with her signature style. It’s an unexpected yet utterly charming piece that adds personality and history to her home.

With items ranging from elegant sterling silver candlesticks to quirky bronze sculptures and timeless portraits, Nikki’s auction picks demonstrate the wide range of treasures that await at estate sales and online auctions.

The key is to have an open mind and a sense of adventure—because you never know what you’ll discover next.

If Nikki’s passion for estate sales and auctions leaves you intrigued, it might be time to explore your own potential for finding hidden gems. With so many unique items at your fingertips, who knows what treasures you might discover next?