Photograph by Pamela Einarsen
We all have that friend—the one with the amazingly chic home, where midcentury modern furniture, art and contemporary lighting effortlessly mingle together and new and vintage finds are perfectly paired. Stopping by The Flat, a new retail concept and design shop in Westport, is just like stepping into that friend’s sophisticated space, where the inspired shopping experience makes any visitor feel right at home.
“The idea behind The Flat,” says owner Becky Goss, “is that it’s set up and styled like a studio or apartment. It has a little bit of everything.” That means design experts and enthusiasts alike will be delighted to discover a highly curated selection of midcentury modern and vintage furniture, decorative one-of-a-kind accessories, an eclectic selection of artwork, books and new and vintage jewelry. Contemporary lighting from Flos, a women’s clothing line from Budapest, and new homeware and vintage jewelry from Georg Jensen are also showcased alongside pieces from iconic designers such as Warren Platner, Arne Jacobsen, Milo Baughman and Kerstin Holmquist.
Goss’s picks reflect her passion. “I’m obsessed with mid-twentieth-century designers. The design during that time was beautiful to look at but also functional,” she says. With such a cultivated assortment, The Flat is the ideal place to treasure hunt. “I hope to be a source for anyone looking for something unique, something vintage, something you don’t see in everyone’s homes.”
Having lived in Westport for the past twenty years, Goss had her heart set on Railroad Place when she began location scouting, and she found herself instantly drawn to the storefront and historical feel of her new space. “I wanted to be a little off the grid,” she says. “I think that’s inspired by being in New York City part-time. I’m attracted to the little signs and little shops there, and I love the character they have.”
So whether you’re looking for vintage Gucci jewelry, a Max Ernst watercolor or vintage barware, The Flat is always worth a visit.
THE FLAT
24 Railroad Place, Westport
203-505-4232; theflatwestport.com