
Drop in to any or all of these local Best of Chatham retail winners to find uncommonly good things
By Morgan Cartier Weston
Steel Roots: “If it can go in your home, we have it,” says Kristina Keeter, store manager. Specializing in timeless, high-quality products and interior design services led by owner Christy Lynch O’Hara, Steel Roots features a wide range of statement-making custom upholstery fabrics, rugs and wallpaper, as well as giftable items like candles, artwork, garden decor and jewelry. Pura smart home fragrance diffuser, $78

New Horizons Downtown: Shopping for someone who has everything? From quirky cards to socks that make a statement (literally), New Horizons Downtown is brimming with unique gifts and handmade goods. The shop also carries a collection of ergonomic shoes and eco-friendly clothing, so you can treat yourself for crossing off that hard-to-find gift from your list. Rechargeable candle lighter, $42

Deep River Mercantile: For those looking to cultivate a cozy vibe at home, the warm textures, sights and smells at Deep River Mercantile are sure to inspire. The general store, which just celebrated its fifth anniversary on Hillsboro Street, carries items like scented candles, puzzles, plush blankets and stoneware mugs that will spark visions of curling up next to a roaring fire in the cooler months ahead. Plus, their cheeky kitchen towels, craft cocktail syrups and Southern-inspired cookbooks make great gifts for the gourmand in your life. Hurricane cocktail mixer, $14

Screaming for Vintage: A vintage lover’s paradise, Screaming For Vintage promises a new discovery every visit. Owners Mary Piraino and Chad Piraino launched the shop when their own beloved collection of mid-century and vintage furniture, art and collectibles began to outgrow their home. “We only sell things we truly love and stand behind,” Mary says. Leather and cowhide lounger in the style of Le Corbusier, $685

Chatham Habitat for Humanity Restore: Thrifting is a budget-friendly and sustainable way to spruce up a home, garden or wardrobe – and at the Chatham Habitat for Humanity ReStore, it’s also a way to give back: funds from sales go toward eliminating substandard housing right here in our community. In addition to furniture, decor and kitchen items, the ReStore also carries home improvement items like tools, appliances, paint, light fixtures and doorknobs. Vintage tea set, $85