It should come as little surprise that interior designer Susan Weiss, founder and principal of Denver-based Emerson Bailey Collection, makes her living sourcing unique and hard-to-find furnishings and architectural accents. This is, after all, the daughter of a man known for his unusual collections—his most notable acquisition being the boat that inspired the movie The African Queen. “My childhood was a hunt for the perfect this or that,” Weiss says. “I love things with substance and character; pieces that tell a story.”

These days, the designer travels to Europe several times each year to gather the fine antique furnishings, accessories and building elements that mingle with contemporary accents—think Libeco linens, Verellen furnishings, Apparatus lighting—at her Cherry Hills Village design studio. (More acquisitions fill a nearby warehouse, the A Line Boutique in Cherry Creek, and an online shop.) Here, Weiss reveals a few favorite sources for such fabulous finds.

PHOTO COURTESY STUDIO COMO

STUDIO COMO RINO AND COLE, DENVER

Why she loves it: “This fantastic, ever-changing showroom is such an inspirational experience and a great source for contemporary furniture and lighting that pairs beautifully with antiques. The knowledgeable, personable staff is invaluable when I’m working to find the perfect piece.” Favorite finds: A horsehair sconce by Apparatus that can be found in her own studio. studiocomo.com

PHOTO COURTESY ROBISCHON GALLERY

ROBISCHON GALLERY LODO

Why she loves it: “This is an amazing gallery space in which to view art—from the volumes of the rooms to the lighting, everything is perfect. The staff is extremely helpful in supporting the very personal, highly important experience of art selection. I go for the incredible collection of contemporary art, which I often place with European antiques and authentic furnishings to magically complete a space.” Favorite finds: Work by Gary Komarin and pieces by the artist Jae Ko. robischongallery.com

PHOTO COURTESY ERON JOHNSON ANTIQUES

ERON JOHNSON ANTIQUES ATHMAR PARK, DENVER

Why she loves it: “This is a great place to find authentic antiques of all kinds, and to soak in owner Eron’s amazing knowledge about everything. The treasures you’ll find here are guaranteed to be authentic, well-researched and documented.” Favorite finds: A pair of 19^th-century Chinese purple elm-wood armchairs. eronjohnsonantiques.com

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