Designer Melissa Rufty is one of the country’s most admired emerging artists. She is regularly featured in national lists of top designers and has a fiercely loyal following 
throughout the United States for her modern take on classic Southern design that intuitively blends antiques, family heirlooms, a kaleidoscope of colorful palates, intricate textiles, and bespoke accessories. Her design studio is located on New Orleans’ famed Magazine Street and gets plenty of inspiration from the Old-World sensibilities, artistic scene, and eclectic spirit of the greater area. Rufty believes “inspiration is everywhere, especially along Magazine Street with nearly seven miles of restaurants and shops” and also enjoys traveling through intimate small towns to unearth unique treasures to incorporate into projects. This shopping guide to the Crescent City is brimming with Melissa’s favorites places for finding antique gems and savoring the best of her town.
Antique Finds and Textiles
Katie Koch Home—“This is one of my favorite stores to source interesting finds from all over the world. Katie has such an amazing knack for finding the unique. In addition to scoring some great vintage finds, she travels to destinations like Morocco and brings back a bevy of gifts and home furnishings.”
Karla Katz Antiques—“Karla Katz Antiques has an exquisite collection of case pieces, mirrors, and lighting for that perfect antique piece. The team has an amazing eye for finding that perfect antique that brings so much character to any room.”
Balzac Antiques and B.Viz Boutique—“Balzac shares a storefront with antiques on one side and custom antique textiles and pillows on the other. It never disappoints, and Becky’s pillows are truly works of art.” B.Viz Boutique is spotlighted in the November/December 2019 issue of Southern Home in the “On Trend” section.
Vintage Furniture and Home Decor
Dunn & Sonnier—“Visit for a great array of home accessories, antiques, and magnificent floral arrangements. The owners, Roy and Stephen, have been collecting for some time, and it shows!”
Uptowner Antiques—“It’s the ‘honey pot’ for some of the prettiest dining tables and case pieces I’ve seen. They have their own refinishers on-site, so their wood patinas are exquisite.”
Leontine Linens—“This is the spot for bespoke linens. The impeccable hand embroidered and appliquéd monograms add so much character to their notorious linens and stylish table settings.”
Malachite Homes—“This is a vintage home furnishings shop I co-own with Adrienne Casbarian that lives up to its name. Loaded with “semi-precious finds for the home,” it’s a virtual styling closet for designers and treasure hunters alike, who are looking for unique statement pieces to get that sought-after design mix.”
Moss Antiques—“Located on the historic Chartres Street, this shop has been around for many years and always has beautiful oyster plates, antiques, and heirloom jewelry if you are looking to treat yourself!” Moss Antiques is featured in the “Antiques Obsession” section of the November/December 2019 issue of Southern Home.
Art Galleries and Local Bites
Ashley Longshore Gallery—“A trip to Magazine is not complete until you have visited the world-famous Ashley Longshore Gallery. She is a celebrity and fashion world darling, and her work has graced Bergdorf Goodman and, most recently, Paris Fashion Week. Her studio, like her work, is a feast for the eyes—full of color, jewels, and her unmistakable wit.”
Callan Contemporary—“You cannot miss the beautiful art galleries of Julia Street. Callan Contemporary showcases emerging American and International artists. Their sculptural offerings are truly conversation starters.”
Le Petite Grocery—“After scoping out the best shops on Magazine Street, a lunch at Le Petite Grocery is the perfect spot to enjoy New Orleans cuisine. I love to start off by ordering the Crab Beignets, a special New Orleans indulgence that is not to be missed!”
