One small step into ConsignerDesigner is a giant leap into a world where earthly goods meet heavenly prices. In this hybrid universe, dark wood antiques sit alongside contemporary canvas couches, offering buyers a wide selection of upscale home furnishings and accessories. With a steady supply of armoires, bedroom sets, dining tables and overstuffed chairs, anyone who isn't tempted must be on another planet.

The classy-yet-comfortable atmosphere is like the living room in most shoppers' dream homes. You are invited in with coffee and cookies at the door, and you are welcomed to stay with wine and cheese on the patio entrance on Friday evenings.

All pieces are gently used and sold on consignment for various owners. In a consignment store, the owners of the merchandise contract with the store owner to sell items for them. ConsignerDesigner's inventory includes about 10 percent new merchandise - mostly accessories, like wrought iron sconces and Salt City Candles. It is a great resource for people who love to decorate, because they can both buy and sell through ConsignerDesigner.

"Generally the prices are 40 to 70 percent less than retail," said owner Jannette Lyon. Prices range from about $10 for knick-knacks and jewelry to big pieces with costs in the thousands of dollars. Lyon stocks top-of-the-line treasures for virtually every budget. For instance, a $1,200 Chagall serigraph hangs near a 1940s channelback chair (like your grandmother had), priced at $40. Lyon also has plenty for the medium range buyer, like a $150 iron chandelier or a suede sofa for $450. But, just like in life, the only constant is change, and inventory is constantly in a state of being bought or sold.

Lyon splits the profits 50/50 with clients whose objects cost less than $100. For higher ticket items, Lyon keeps just 40 percent. She operates on a 90-day consignment cycle, after which, they re-negotiate or the consignee picks up or donates the goods.

ConsignerDesigner's vintage furniture is impressive, like the Georgian arch-style mahogany mirror priced at $320; it feels like a high-end antique store with outlet pricing. The mint condition of the inventory makes you forget that the pieces were previously owned.

When Consigner Designer opened in December of 2004, it wasn't just furniture that had a twist of fate. Owner Lyon quit her 25-year career at a law firm to breathe new life into herself and the previously-owned products.

"I lived in the area for a number of years and noticed there wasn't a consignment store," she said. "I thought we needed one here."

With the help of her husband, Robert, Lyon began by contacting people who were trying to sell their furnishings in the newspaper or on e-bay. People wanting the store to sell their merchandise can e-mail her photos.

"Sometimes the store gets so full, we have to put people on a waiting list," Lyon said.

She also has a list especially for shoppers: a wish list. She keeps track of items her customers are seeking and contacts them when one is found.


ConsignerDesigner has an extremely informative website, www.ConsignerDesigner.com, and is located across from the Home Depot at 20655 Soledad Canyon Road. You may contact the staff at 252-2244.