FOR THE INFORMED SHOPPPER 

A recent article in the New York Times pointed out that “West Palm Beach is emerging from the shadow of its affluent world-famous neighbor, Palm Beach…” Numerous luxury high-rises are popping up along the West Palm Beach side of the intercoastal because, among other prohibitions, building restrictions will not allow them in Palm Beach. There is a definite shift in the meaning of the old question: what side of the bridge do you live on? 

On my current exploration south of Southern in the SOSO Design District, I saw shoppers out and about everywhere I went.  Along Georgia Avenue The Factory is behind schedule, but construction is nearing an eagerly anticipated completion. Its opening will come as a complimentary addition to the street. Authentic Provence’s new AP Mid Century Modern is now open next door to its sister store, and, like its sister, it is expertly curated with a more contemporary focus on items of exceptional design and quality not found anywhere else.  

Walking into Casa Gusto is like walking into a photo shoot in progress. Display, design and placement are as important to the owners as the items they sell.  Recently they have expanded the store to create a workspace for their own one-of-a-kind designs in furniture, fabric and accessories. Further over on South Dixie Highway Paula Roemer offers new and vintage items that keep shoppers, especially designers and decorators, coming back.  Her second store on Antique Row will soon move several doors down on the Row to a larger space.  Both are worth investigating.