The Valuable Vintage Furniture Brand You Can Thrift That Collectors Always Look For

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When it comes to vintage furniture shopping, there's nothing more satisfying than finding a high-end piece for a low price. But with so many brands out there, it can be tricky to know which ones to look out for. One name that collectors always keep an eye out for, however, is Kroehler.

Dating back more than 125 years, the once-prominent American furniture company was widely recognized for its collection of durable mid-century modern furnishings, which included everything from dressers and tables to upholstered sofas and chairs. Originally founded by Peter E. Kroehler, the brand also became known for its unique shapes for lounge chairs, featuring batwinged and scalloped backs. And by the 1940s, it had become one of the world's largest furniture manufacturers. 

Today, Kroehler's sought-after pieces can be found on popular resale websites such as Chairish and 1stDibs — two of the best places to shop for vintage furniture. But prices can get quite high for well-preserved pieces — for example, one walnut credenza with rosewood accents is listed on 1stDibs for over $2,500, while Chairish has an upholstered swivel lounge chair up for nearly $1,500. Fortunately, if you're looking for a more wallet-friendly option, there are ways to snag Kroehler furniture at a lower price.

If you end up finding a piece of Kroehler furniture on a vintage resale site but the price is a bit steeper than you'd like, don't give up just yet. You might find the same (or similar) piece by checking out your local secondhand shops or stopping by any estate sales happening in your area. Some eagle-eyed thrifters have scored some amazing deals, like one who snagged a beautifully preserved five-drawer Kroehler dresser for just $4.99 at Goodwill. "I couldn't believe it!" they wrote on Reddit after bringing it home. Another lucky collector joked, in a Reddit post, that they felt like they had "robbed" their local shop after purchasing a dresser for just $50. Keep your eyes peeled for chairs, too. An upholstered Kroehler lounge chair was once picked up at a thrift store for just $9 (via Reddit). 

Of course, when shopping for vintage pieces in person, there are some smart tips to keep in mind when buying secondhand furniture, such as looking out for any damage or missing pieces. Another thing to remember is that secondhand shops can sometimes have unusual hours, so if you're planning a day of thrifting, check ahead of time to ensure the stores you want to hit are open. You can also call ahead to find out which days new inventory arrives, so that you get first pick. 

If browsing for furniture online is more your jam, you might also come across some reasonably priced Kroehler furniture on platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace. While prices on sites like these vary, it's possible to find some good deals if you're consistently looking. At the time of writing, for example, a set of four Kroehler spindle-back dining chairs is available on eBay for under $400.

Midcentury modern furniture, generally considered to be designs created between the years 1933 and 1965, is known for its clean lines, bold accent colors, and use of natural materials, such as walnut, oak, and teak. The style has been on a major resurgence in recent years, with design experts and vintage collectors loving its timeless and minimalist aesthetic. So, if you're hoping to add a retro furniture piece to your space — something interior designer Nate Berkus swears by for a beautifully layered home — you now know which brand to look for, and where to start looking.