Zooey Deschanel's 'experimentative' vintage rack makes a case for unique, decorative storage

Jonathan Scott and Zooey Deschanel's 1930s' Georgian revival home is a fitting canvas for everything vintage, and the couple haven't disappointed in their design choices so far. 

The property, located in Brentwood, Los Angeles, pays tribute to its origins via floral wallpaper and emphasized wooden architectural details – but now we've noticed that the storage similarly has roots in the past. The piece in question appears to be a vintage-style clothing rack, but in true Zooey Deschanel style, it's used to hold her silver clutch. 

The rack has hooks that are perfect for jackets, or whatever we may hang from our coat hangers, but above all, it adds a unique decorative element to the actress's dressing room. 

While we aren't suggesting we all swap out our closets for a similar style rack, it's hard to deny that this antique is as simultaneously striking as it is practical. It's a reminder that some storage solutions are design pieces in their own right, so why not get creative with how we store some of our favorite goods?

Interiors therapist Suzanne Roynon agrees. She reiterates that Zooey's rack is notably bare and, therefore, primarily decorative (rather than a full-time practical storage option in her home). However, it still teaches us a lesson in blending beautiful and functional designs.

'While the design might not fit with the current trend for streamlined closet storage space in homes, a piece like this can be a real bonus for stars like Zooey and anyone else who loves to experiment with a range of looks before settling on the final one,' Suzanne comments. 

'They are wonderful for displaying a selection of clothes, purses, and jewelry to compare and choose from, but less useful for full-time storage.'

Decorating with antiques such as this is best suited to a bedroom, where it has the space to work alongside other storage solutions (rather than an entryway that might feel more compact, for example). 

'Vintage pieces like this are more suited to a dressing or cloakroom than as a feature in a bedroom because they inevitably become cluttered when used for permanent hanging space,' Suzanne emphasizes. 'However, if the style stands out as something you’d love for your home, you’ll find similar standalone and wall-hung options in many antique furniture stores.  If you’re creative, they are easy to make, but use hardwood rather than a softer option to ensure the hooks are anchored solidly and stay looking fabulous.'

Suzanne Roynon

Suzanne is a specialist Interiors Therapy Expert and author of Welcome Home, How Stuff Makes or Breaks your Relationship – available on Amazon. She has spent more than 25 years in corporate and charity roles, using her ability as a therapist and public speaker to help people understand their relationship with their homes and possessions.

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