High-end European design at secondhand prices

Stacia Vinar, left, and Sarah Whipple, owners of Modern Resale, sit among some of the modern European furniture, lighting and accessories at their Los Angeles showroom. The pieces are secondhand but inspected for quality.

Modern Resale carries second-hand furnishings, lighting and accessories made by well-respected European brands such as B&B Italia, Cappellini and Lignet Roset.  (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

Interior designers say Modern Resale is a double blessing, as clients may be looking to buy or sell furniture.

Though price tags at Modern Resale are still not cheap by any means, it is a better alternative than purchasing reproductions.  (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

Modern Resale works with local restoration specialists when necessary to return items to their former glory.

The Modern Resale showroom in Los Angeles carries secondhand furnishings, lighting and accessories by European brands.

Inside Modern Resale, which sells lightly used modern European furniture, lighting and accessories.

A view of Modern Resale, which sells lightly used modern European furniture, lighting and accessories secondhand.

The Modern Resale showroom in Los Angeles sells lightly used modern European furniture, lighting and accessories.

Items in the Modern Resale store in Los Angeles.

Stacia Vinar, left, and Sarah Whipple, owners Modern Resale, stand among the European furniture, lighting and accessories at their Los Angeles showroom, which is open by appointment.