Motel Motif?
Growing up, my parents always had this ugly Howard Johnson’s ashtray* they used as a soapdish at the kitchen sink. At the end of their honeymoon, they had asked the desk clerk if they could buy said ashtray as a memento, and he was so shocked and charmed by their honesty, he told them they could just have it. I thought of this when I saw a small feature in Lucky about hotelsurplus.com .
Personally, I was hoping for some really tacky velvet Elvis paintings or some fabulous Ian Schrager hotel castoffs, but alas, they had none. I have to say, when I looked over the furnishings on the site, it looked more no-tell motel to me, but actually, most of their pieces come from really nice hotels. Let’s just say that from the offerings, I could definitely see why these places were redecorating, and it must have been long overdue. However, if you sort through, you can find some interesting items. Who wouldn’t want a locking minibar (think moochy college roommate) or an electronic pedestal safe? I’ll recommend if ordering that you use common sense - for instance, 1) From my experience with hotel televisions, I’m guessing they are way past their primes. 2) Mattresses and Bedding - EW EW EWWWW! 3) Never put any of it under a blacklight (I’ve never recovered from that episode of 20/20).
*BTW, that ashtray is from the ’60’s, and it is now pretty retro-HoJo’s-cool. I recently picked up a similar funky Holiday Inn one over at Victory Vintage.
November 22nd, 2006 at 11:28 am
Hi Becky!
Don’t be jealous– Hotel Surplus Outlet is a place I’ve been to twice. But their location really sucks. It’s barely in downtown LA, in a scary part you would not want to travel at night. I am so happy they’re moving to the Valley– even closer.
I have found incredible bargains, on high-end furniture. Some I bought, some I didn’t. I discovered castaways from the Hollywood Rennaisance Hotel in Hollywood… new furniture in mid-century design with terrific blue and yellow colors. I also searched for a headboard. Once in a while, I’ll hunt there for client items for rooms like a basement, den– or child’s play area, just in case they get trashed.
The best deals I’ve ever found are on one-off chairs. Use them bedside or in the entry hall. Fantastic and hurry, see it and purchase it fast, things go out as fast as they come in.
- John
November 30th, 2006 at 3:37 pm
But I am jealous! What you describe is what I pictured when I heard of the place, but certainly not what I found on the web. Though for some reason I really want a minibar and a safe. I think the reason is that I am weird!
Sorry my responses to comments are so slow. It took me awhile to realize I can’t get into my DP email account anymore. Usually that lets me know that there are comments on the blog!
Becky