Design lesson: Vacation style

Local crafts, furnishings and foods are a major part of the whole travel experience. Here are some of my favourites – those gems that pack easily and forever remind you of a favourite destination.

Original artwork Unframed pieces, which are nearly indestructible, should be at the top of your list.

Pottery and porcelain French Barbotine, Spanish majolica, and Japanese Arita, or Imari, can be called into practical service or simply enjoyed on display. Wrap more delicate pieces as carry-on items.

Antique boxes A variety of materials, such as lacquer-finish wood and wood inlaid with marquetry, or shagreen, are widely available. Larger antique boxes, a precursor to the laptop, allowed travellers to store stationery, ink and quills at hand. Big among today's collectors: boxes that once held toiletries, stationery or tea.

Serving trays They might be made of acrylic, wood, pewter or silver, depending on the region.

strong>Copper cookware Its mellow glow adds a classic French accent to a kitchen. Chefs prefer copper because it distributes heat evenly and quickly.

Antique textiles and lace Purchase these at antique shops and flea markets. Frame them or turn them into decorative pillows.

Dishtowels or bedding Vintage pieces often feature embroidered details or monograms, and pretty dishtowels work beautifully as guest towels. Look for items made of linen, cotton or hemp.

Local delicacies like jam, pâté, cookies and tapenade These can be savoured for weeks following a trip. I also search for beautiful sugars wrapped in unusual packaging, infused with lavender or decorated with fanciful details to give as hostess gifts once I'm home.

Leather-bound books You'll find them at flea markets and fairs for reasonable prices.

Small chandeliers, lanterns or sconces Those from Europe and Africa can easily be rewired to North American standards or converted to candle use. A six-arm chandelier could cost around $200 to rewire, a pair of sconces somewhere around $40 to $50.