Philadelphia is perhaps more famous for its founding fathers than its looks but the American city is filled with stately Georgian and Federal architecture in a landscape dotted with urban murals and brimming with youthful energy that infuses its decidedly unique shops.
Housed in a spare white space, Minima (118 North 3rd Street, tel: 1 215 922 2002; minima.us) is as deluxe as it gets. Some of its products - such as the glass-topped table held up by spiky red poles - might be overwhelming but the shop carries styles that are more subtle. The boxy cabinet finished with a swirly pattern will add style to a room without taking it over. All prices are on application.
Former Ikea consultant Sharne Algotsson has put her experience to good use at Twist (1134 Pine Street, tel: 1 212 925 1242; twisthome.com). Hand-painted wooden furniture takes its place alongside chunky aluminium coffee flasks (US$149) and comforting cushions (US$75) made from New Zealand wool. The lack of a theme is refreshingly inviting.
Petulia's Folly (1710 Sansom Street, tel: 1 215 569 1344; petuliasfolly.com) is crammed with divine stuff such as clear-glazed pastel ceramics from Australia and pillows splattered with flower designs. All prices are on application.
At Open House (107 South 13th Street, tel: 1 215 922 1415; openhouseliving.com) the lines are more directional with the sloping armchair (US$406) and neat, tiered side-table (US$166): a touch of class for your living room.
At PHAG (Philadelphia Home and Garden; 1225 Walnut Street, tel: 1 215 627 0461; thephagshop.com) you'll find something for every room. The bold swinging chair (above; US$524) is monochrome and floral and the ottoman (left; US$198) is upholstered in banana leaves woven into a spiral pattern.