For self-proclaimed thrifter Virginia Chamlee, a casual trip to Goodwill quickly turned into the adventure we thrifters experience when we find something special—when the thrill of the hunt comes to fruition. Hidden among basic secondhand furniture was a Maitland-Smith armoire that, to the untrained eye, probably just looked like a bunch of fake books. Trusting her trained eye (she wrote a book all about thrifting, after all), Chamlee snagged the piece for $60. Later research revealed its true value: an estimated $4,000.
“Found one of my dream furniture pieces @goodwillnfl: a tromp l’oeil leather covered armoire by Maitland-Smith,” Chamlee says in the caption. “This thing nearly killed me, but if I have to go out with my feet sticking out from under a giant object, a la the Wicked Witch, I hope it’s this one.”
Chamlee’s find wasn’t just luck—it resulted from her attention to detail and knowledge of high-end designers. Seasoned thrifters like her are constantly looking for signs of quality, like solid construction, brass hardware, and fine veneers. In the video, she explains how she spotted the armoire’s potential immediately, and her excitement is relatable and encouraging.
Thrift shopping has come a long way in recent years—and finds worthy of a high-end antique shop are still out there. What was once primarily about affordability is now also about sustainability and uncovering unique heirloom-quality pieces. Chamlee’s discovery speaks to this shift, where pre-owned furniture and decor are increasingly valued not just for their price but also for their craftsmanship and style.
The Story Behind Maitland-Smith
Maitland-Smith has been a respected name in high-end furniture since 1979 and was founded by Paul Maitland-Smith, a London antique dealer.1 The brand’s reputation is built on its dedication to traditional craftsmanship, with furniture inspired by 18th-century European styles. Maitland-Smith’s pieces often include intricate details like inlaid wood, hand-painted finishes, and ornate carvings.
Originally based in Hong Kong, the company collaborated with artisans across Southeast Asia to produce their distinctive furniture. Today, Maitland-Smith is part of the Rock House Farm Family of Brands, which includes other prominent names like Century Furniture and Hickory Chair.2 Their work is considered collectible, blending old-world charm with modern sophistication.
What Makes the Armoire Worth So Much?
Maitland-Smith furniture doesn’t come cheap. New pieces often range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the design and materials.3 The $4,000 valuation of Chamlee’s armoire reflects both its original price and the current demand for classic, well-made furniture. As more people gravitate toward timeless, high-quality designs, Maitland-Smith items will likely continue appreciating in value.
Sources
- “Paul Maitland-Smith.” American Home Furnishings Hall of Fame. ↩︎
- “Family of Brands.” Rock House Farm. ↩︎
- “Maitland-Smith Furniture for Sale.” 1stDibs. ↩︎
