How to Hunt for Antiques in the South of France, as a Traveling Designer

A Journey Through the South of France with Bradley Odom

Bradley Odom's love for antiquing began in his childhood, when he spent countless hours exploring the crowded shelves of flea markets alongside his mother. This passion for uncovering hidden treasures never faded, eventually leading him to establish his interior design studio and retail shop, Dixon Rye. The store features a wide range of items, from Astier de Villatte dinnerware to custom upholstered furnishings, but it’s the one-of-a-kind antiques that truly set the space apart.

Odom describes the thrill of finding something rare and unique as a deeply personal experience. "For me, it’s about giving life to something that may have been forgotten or overlooked," he explains. "In today's fast-paced world, there's a growing disconnect from the history and craftsmanship of the past, and I try to bridge that gap through my work."

Over the years, Odom has traveled extensively to discover the best spots for antiquing. His current favorite destination is the south of France, a place he stumbled upon after hearing rave reviews from a vendor in Italy. Intrigued, he and his team embarked on an antiquing adventure this past summer, discovering a wealth of treasures in the region’s southern towns.

"When you arrive in the south of France, you’re immediately struck by the diversity of styles," says Odom. "While Paris has a more cosmopolitan feel with Belgian and Scandinavian influences, heading down to Marseille and beyond reveals a rich blend of cultures. You see Italian-inspired ornate armoires and Spanish warmth in wooden benches. Everything there feels old, with centuries of history radiating from every corner."

Tips for Antiquing in the South of France

Research, Research, Research

Before embarking on your trip, it's essential to plan thoroughly. Odom recommends starting with cities like Montpellier, which offers several local antiques stores and city-wide flea markets such as Le Grand Bazar. This market only takes place once each spring and fall, so be sure to check the dates before planning your visit. From Montpellier, he suggests exploring coastal towns until reaching Marseille. One of his favorite stops was L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known for its curated antique shops and vibrant Sunday markets.

"Each shop had its own unique style—some focused on midcentury pieces, while others showcased sculptures or fragments from old buildings," he notes.

Consider Your Shipping Options Before Going

Shipping can be a logistical challenge, so it's wise to plan ahead. Odom advises setting a budget for shipping costs and researching reliable international shippers like FedEx or UPS. Some merchants may offer packing and shipping services, but always ensure your information is included on all shipping documents to track your package. Avoid using the local postal service, as they are often unreliable and slow.

Forget the Shopping List and Be Open-Minded

Odom emphasizes the importance of being open to unexpected finds. While it’s helpful to have a few ideas in mind, the true joy of antiquing lies in discovering something unique that you hadn’t considered before. He always keeps an eye out for unusual sculptures, chairs with distinctive silhouettes, and vintage garden planters.

"We maintain a small collection of interesting planters in our shop," he explains. "They add character and bring a touch of the garden indoors." Odom also recommends talking to shop owners to learn more about the origins and history of the pieces you're interested in. You might just stumble upon a rare French furniture piece hidden in a corner.

Don't Forget to Take in the Sights

While antiquing is the main focus, Odom encourages travelers to explore the beauty of the south of France. The region is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and attractions worth visiting. He always rents a car to explore the back roads, which often lead to unexpected discoveries. During his trip, he and his team stopped at an unannounced winery for an impromptu wine tasting. For Odom, the journey is just as valuable as the treasures found along the way.