LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
ARTS & COLLECTIBLES
THE ART
OF THE HUNT
Sourcing vintage gems with Tori Jones is a journey of passion, discovery, and meticulous curation, resulting in a collection that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with unique, personal significance.
Antique Lady of the Lake Indigo Quilt
early 20th century
I love antique, handmade patchwork quilts and we always have a range available. Quilts are a real labor of love for us: we spend a lot of time hunting for these and we hand wash them prior to listing for purchase. Quilting is such an underappreciated art form. Through our business, we’ve tried to highlight the artistry and workmanship of old quilts, as well as call attention to their female makers. This indigo and white piece, in a rare pattern, has such an enduringly modern and graphic appeal. To me, this is a piece of usable art: it’s a study in eye-catching pattern play, but also offers comfort and protection.
Tori Jones at The Gallery at
200 Lex in New York Design Center
Tori Jones, the discerning curator behind Tori Jones Studio, brings a unique blend of editorial precision and personal passion to the world of vintage and antique curation. Her philosophy centers on a deeply personal criterion: “Would I bring this home, keep it forever, and ultimately pass it down?” This guiding principle ensures that every piece in her collection resonates with timeless elegance and personal significance.
Tori’s extensive background as a style editor at renowned publications like Veranda and Elle Decor profoundly influences her approach to curation. With an editor’s eye, she and her team are perpetually driven by the joy of discovery. Their relentless pursuit takes them to markets and auctions worldwide, always on the lookout for items that excite and inspire. “Because we spend so much time looking, looking (and waking up extremely early to be the very first into a market), we’ve developed an understanding of what is more readily available and what is rare, authentic, and unique.” This meticulous process, much like her editorial work, involves saying no more often than yes, ensuring only the rarest and most authentic pieces make the cut.
Sourcing unique items is no easy feat. The process is filled with early mornings, long road trips, and numerous dead ends. Yet, for Tori, the thrill of the hunt is unmatched. “Special and rare things are hard to come by,” she shares, recounting tales of long-sought treasures that are sold almost immediately upon acquisition. This constant cycle of finding and letting go is a testament to her resilience and passion for the craft.
At Tori Jones Studio, whether it’s their e-commerce platform or physical locations in Manhattan and Block Island, the aim is to create a warm, inviting, and effortless shopping experience. Tori hopes clients feel the same thrill of discovery she does, minus the hard work. “We want our clients to have that same thrill of discovery when shopping with us but without all the hard work.” The spaces are designed to be both welcoming and inspiring, making the process of finding that perfect piece a joyous experience.
Antique French Bleached Oak Demilune
I love how this piece beautifully marries sophistication and simplicity. Its curving cabriole legs, ball and claw feet, and carved apron are tempered by the scrubbed finish and planked top. I had never seen anything quite like this, and don’t think I will again. We’re always thinking about the final home for our pieces and this one could skew a million different ways: rustic, coastal, modern, traditional.
Neoclassical Style Steel Daybed
circa 1960
My biggest rule for buying inventory for my business is never purchase something that I wouldn’t personally want to live with. And if I could, I’d take home this vintage steel daybed. It was made in the ‘60’s so though it’s inspired by the grace and elegance of neoclassicism, it’s got this 20th century cool factor to it. I love how architectural the frame is, and I especially love its beautifully weathered finish. This is a real statement piece, the type of thing you’d build a whole room around.
Over time, Tori’s collection has evolved to reflect a broad spectrum of styles, from American antiques and unique textiles to original art. While she doesn’t focus on trends, she acknowledges a growing appreciation for vintage and antique items among younger generations. This shift highlights a broader understanding of sustainability and a desire for unique, timeless pieces.
Among her many collected items, Tori holds a special fondness for 19th-century patchwork quilts and a large-scale Adirondack center table, both remarkable for their craftsmanship and personal connection. Looking ahead, she is excited about the continuous learning her business offers and hopes to expand her collection in ways that introduce clients to new perspectives and appreciations.
Tori Jones Studio stands as a testament to the enduring allure of vintage and antique treasures, curated with an editor’s precision and a collector’s passion. Each piece tells a story, promising to be a cherished part of someone’s home for generations to come.
www.torijonesstudio.com | The Gallery at 200 Lex