5 Pottery Barn Picks Worth Buying and 4 to Pass Up, According to a Designer

As an interior designer, I relish the fall season for its ability to infuse a warm ambiance into homes.

Pottery Barn is well-regarded for its upscale yet relaxed home decor, and it offers an impressive array of items for every room.

During a recent trip to a Pottery Barn in Los Angeles, I encountered a range of decorative items that can enhance any space, though some left me less impressed. Here’s my curated list.

Throw Pillows: A Textural Delight

Typically drawn to jewel tones, I unexpectedly found myself captivated by the textured throw pillows in hues of beige, brown, and tan.

These pillows added a cozy dimension to a cream sofa, making them a must-have for combining comfort and style in living spaces.

Vases: Surprisingly Captivating

The variety and craftsmanship of Pottery Barn’s vases exceeded my expectations.

With options in ceramic and terracotta, these vases in black, gray, and blue can function indoors or outdoors and are perfect for mixing and matching.

Tablescape Essentials for Fall

For those aiming to stow a stunning fall tablescape, Pottery Barn’s collection is worth considering.

My eye was drawn to embroidered runners, sparkling cocktail glasses, and elegant plates, all prime for impressing guests.

Unmatched Holiday Floral Arrangements

Pottery Barn's holiday floral displays transported me from sunny LA to a festive winter setting.

Featuring faux poinsettias and red berries, these arrangements are admittedly pricey but well worth their uplifting presence.

Breezy Swivel Chairs

Swivel chairs like the Ayden offer a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, enhancing any space they occupy.

The chair felt luxurious during my in-store test, solidifying its place in my recommended buys.

Placemats: A Design Letdown

Despite the charm of Pottery Barn's tablescapes, the rattan placemats fell flat with their texture, which felt artificially coated.

At $76 for four, they didn’t meet my standard, prompting me to seek alternatives elsewhere.

Flameless Candles: A Miss for Scent Lovers

Though practical for some households, I favor the aromatic appeal of real candles over the flameless variety.

For those seeking scented options, I recommend shops like Colvon and West Elm.

Lackluster Bedding Options

Pottery Barn’s bedding selections were underwhelming, with minimal color variety and unexpectedly thin sheets.

Given the price range, I would look elsewhere for bedding that combines comfort with vibrant design.