11 Unusual Things People With High Intelligence Do In Their Homes
By Zayda Slabbekoorn | Written Oct 16, 2025
Even if you imagine the home of the most intelligent person you know as a tidy, incredibly organized, and sterile space, chances are you’re wrong. A study from the University of Minnesota actually argues that untidy, cluttered, and slightly chaotic living spaces are more indicative of intelligence than organization and cleanliness.
Of course, there are many other unusual things people with high intelligence do in their homes — all of which might be a bit of a surprise. From collecting eccentric vintage décor to keeping a physical calendar in the digital age, intelligent people are often drawn to cultivating their homes in a way that prompts mental stimulation. They want to be sparked with inspiration as they get ready for the day or drawn into a state of deep thought when relaxing on their couch — and their décor choices often reflect those desires.
Here are 11 unusual things people with high intelligence do in their homes
1. They keep a whiteboard or a physical calendar
Many studies suggest that physical calendars and brainstorming whiteboards support deeper thinking. They serve as visual reminders and open space for curiosity, intention, and learning to flourish through handwritten notes and prompts. Intelligent people often invest in these physical tools, even if they also use phone or digital versions. It gives them a way to track tasks, brainstorm, and remind themselves visually.
2. They rearrange their furniture often
Research indicates that people with high intelligence tend to be more prosocial, and making their home inviting for guests and conducive to connection is important. They frequently rearrange furniture or tweak spaces so conversations flow, social connection is enhanced, and people feel comfortable in their homes.
3. They keep a desk full of “controlled chaos”
A messy desk can facilitate curiosity and creativity, according to psychological research. Intelligent people often allow a certain amount of clutter in their creative zones — not out of neglect, but because it fuels inspiration. What may look chaotic to others is sometimes the perfect blend of stimulation and creative energy for them.
4. They scatter books and journals everywhere
Highly intelligent people tend to use free moments intentionally — reading, journaling, reflecting — rather than turning to passive entertainment. You’ll find books on nightstands, notebooks in kitchens, journals by the couch. These habits feed self-awareness, help process thoughts, and support reflection in daily life.
5. They are intentional about lighting
Lighting influences mood and mental health. Harsh, bright light can become overstimulating, while soft, warm light brings calm. Intelligent people are mindful of this — choosing bright or natural light for productivity, then switching to softer, ambient lighting when unwinding.
6. They use sticky notes for reminders
Because intelligent minds often make connections across many ideas, visual reminders like sticky notes become useful. Tasks, thoughts, or insights are jotted down and posted around the house: on mirrors, desks, doors. These external cues help track ideas and responsibilities.
7. They unwind in a dedicated space
Though many are social, intelligent people often highly value solitude. They create quiet, intentional places to relax — a reading nook, a small studio, even a corner in the garage. These spots offer refuge for reflection, calm, and mental rest.
8. They use cookbooks with recipes outside their comfort zone
Open-mindedness is a common trait among highly intelligent people. In the kitchen, that means experimenting: trying new cuisines, techniques, or unusual ingredients. Even if the result isn’t perfect, the process of exploration and learning is valued.
9. They learn how to fix random things
High intelligence often goes hand in hand with curiosity, resilience, and self-sufficiency. Many prefer to learn hands-on skills — repairing appliances, patching walls, or doing small maintenance — rather than immediately outsourcing work. The challenge stimulates growth.
10. They create spaces just for thinking
Even during downtime, intelligent minds crave stimulation. Many carve out places — a comfortable chair, a quiet corner, a small room — dedicated to thinking, reflecting, or dreaming. These spaces allow curiosity to flourish without distraction.
11. They collect unusual antiques
Rather than chasing trends, intelligent people often gravitate toward meaningful, unique, or vintage items. They appreciate the stories, history, and authenticity behind antiques and curiosities. Over time, their homes may fill with eclectic collections that spark thought and reflection.
by Angela Gentile – GA Vintage & Gentle Angel Treasures
For most of my life, shopping meant malls, bright lights, and endless rows of shiny, new products. Big-box stores were my go-to for almost everything. I liked the convenience, the variety, and the thrill of finding something new. I even liked the smell of new — walking into a store that smelled like plastic, chemicals, perfume, and fake fragrances was something I grew accustomed to.
But over the past few years — especially since diving into my love for thrifting, vintage treasures, and handmade items — I’ve noticed a big shift in myself:
I rarely feel like going to the mall anymore. Those big-box aisles just don’t hold the same magic.
And here’s why.
1. The Thrill of the Hunt
When I walk into a thrift shop, antique store, or flea market, I don’t know what I’ll find — and that’s the fun of it. Every shelf holds a mystery. Maybe it’s a hand-painted vase from the 1950s, a brooch that’s seen decades of celebrations, or a hand-stitched tablecloth that someone poured hours of love into.
In contrast, big-box shopping feels predictable. Rows of identical items, mass-produced (usually made in China) and ready to be replaced the minute the “new season” arrives. Once you’ve experienced the joy of finding something truly unique, it’s hard to get excited about something you know thousands of other people have in their carts.
2. The Emotional Connection
Vintage and handmade items come with a story. Even if I don’t know every detail, I can feel the history in them. They’ve been loved, used, and cherished before — awaiting a new life.
New products rarely carry that weight of meaning. They’re just “things,” fresh from the factory, waiting for a story to begin.
3. Quality That Lasts
The more I thrift, the more I realize how well older items were made. Small hand-painted collectibles. Jewelry with intricate details. Dishes and glassware that have lasted decades without losing their charm.
Compare that to many new items today — lightweight, mass-produced, sometimes built to last only until the next trend rolls in. Once you know the difference, it’s hard to go back.
4. Better for the Planet
Every time we buy second (or third) hand, we keep something out of the landfill and reduce demand for new manufacturing. That means less waste, less energy use, and less strain on our planet. The same goes for handmade items — often created in small batches, with care, rather than churned out in massive factories.
5. The Happiness Psychology Behind It
There’s even a brain science reason for my shift. Thrifting is like a treasure hunt. When we find something unexpected and special, our brains release dopamine — that little “yay!” hit of happiness.
Big-box shopping? You usually know exactly what you’ll find. Without surprise, there’s less excitement.
My Personal Shopping Checklist
Before I buy anything new now (except for intimates and makeup), I ask myself:
Can I find this secondhand or handmade?
Will it last?
Does it make me feel something?
If the answer is “no” to most of those… I walk away.
Why This Matters to You
When you choose vintage, handmade, or secondhand, you’re not just buying an object — you’re preserving history, supporting small businesses, and giving beautiful things a new life. It is also more likely you are keeping your money in Canada at a time when the economy is counting on it.
That’s exactly what I do with GA Vintage and Gentle Angel Treasures. Every item I sell is chosen with care, for its charm, quality, and story. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry, a collectible, or home décor, it’s something that deserves to be loved again. Every piece of jewelry I make is “Made with Love.”
So next time you’re tempted by the mall, maybe try a different kind of shopping trip. Wander into a thrift store. Visit a local artisan market. Or browse my latest finds. You might be surprised by what you discover — and how good it feels to own something truly unique.
Let’s give the past a future — one beautiful item at a time.
On one of my treasure hunts at a local thrift store I came across this beautiful crocheted table runner. It is quite long (about 30”) and I started to think about the time, effort, and skill needed to handcraft such a beautiful heirloom. I asked ChatGPT 4.0 to give me more information on this timeless piece and it came up with some very interesting information which I will share here.
I used to have a few of these on my dark antique furniture and they had been purchased in Italy. They are long gone now.
This hand-crocheted table runner made of joined lace medallions, is often referred to as a motif table runner or a crochet lace doily table runner. Each round motif is typically called a pineapple motif, rose motif, or simply a floral medallion, depending on the specific design.
It appears to be made from fine cotton thread—likely mercerized cotton, giving it that soft sheen and durability. This type of thread was and still is common for intricate doilies and runners.
This type of work was especially popular between the 1930s to 1960s, with a resurgence in the 1970s during the craft revival. If this one was inherited or sourced from a vintage estate, it is likely from mid-20th century.
Each floral motif would have been hand-crocheted individually and then joined together in a grid-like arrangement. Based on the complexity and uniformity of the stitches, it was likely made by an experienced crafter.
A piece like this could take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours or more, depending on the skill of the crocheter. Each medallion may take 30–45 minutes to complete and join, and there are at least 60 motifs in the runner shown.
Value (2025 Estimate):
Market resale value (Canada/US): CAD $30–$85 depending on condition, local demand, and presentation.
Higher-end pricing (Etsy, vintage boutiques): up to CAD $120+ if marketed as “handmade vintage lace crochet table runner.”
Craftsmanship value (not resale, but to appreciate the work): priceless—these are often family heirlooms.
Tips for Selling or Displaying:
Mention that it is handmade vintage crochet, cotton thread, and highlight the floral motif pattern.
Use terms like cottagecore, grandmillennial, shabby chic, or French country—these styles are popular with decor buyers.
To display it: layer it over a dark or solid color to highlight the intricate work.
What a beautiful treasure I found. Do you have any memories of these beautiful furniture adornments? Can they be repurposed or made into other things?
How about this large framed doily (stains and all!) that I inherited from my grandmother. Is this worthy of putting up on a wall somewhere? If this doily could talk!
How many hours did this one take I wonder?
Share your thoughts below or send me an email by completing the contact form.
If you are tired and bored with cheap “fast fashion” and big box stores, if your favourite clothing store (eg. Ricki’s or Cleo) or direct marketing business (e.g. Tupperware)has closed, perhaps you are looking for a different way to shop for clothing, art, jewelry, collectibles, and other household goods. You could be a collector (like me, I love Sherman jewelry) and you love the thrill of the “hunt.” Good deals, nostalgia, and much more can be found in thrift stores as well as stores and sellers that are dedicated to vintage (20 years or older) items. I already wrote about Thrift Stores in Winnipeg, and now I would like to shine the light on vintage stores! There is definitely some overlap, as you will soon come to learn.
Some vintage stores also offer consignment. That’s where you, the “customer,” can supply the store with your own unique, vintage, previously loved, or new “old” stock and if and when it sells, you will get a percentage of the sale. Some shops offer 40/60% (you get 40% and the shop gets 60%). Others offer 60/40. You can do your own research to see where the best place is to sell your good, used, older vintage items.
Shopping at thrift stores and vintage shops also helps keep items out of the landfills. Whether it’s soft goods (clothing/linens etc.) or hard goods (jewelry/glassware, etc.) consider checking out these shops to see if there are any treasures you can take home for yourself or gift to a special somebody. Here they are, in no particular order:
Vintage Glory: 20th Century Clothing, Accessories, and Costume Jewelry.
A chic boutique blending vintage clothing with accessories like jewelry, purses, hats, and shoes. The shop features restored original tin ceilings and maple floors, enhancing its nostalgic ambiance. The shop owner, Doug, who runs it with his wife, told me that he used to rent out items to movie sets, but sometimes they would come back damaged. The solution to that was to sell the items. I was also looking at the selection of Sherman jewelry he had. He said he remembers one time some family members came from out of town to buy up a bunch of Sherman jewelry. They were interested in what he had and they were very pleased. The shop owner also told me he resources for his shop from all over the world. He has been to South Korea even! He has an Instagram account (@vintageglorywpg) and you can see all kinds of ideas of the types of things they sell at Vintage Glory. He said he buys outright, he doesn’t have consignment.
Located in Elmwood Place, Keenleyside and Thomas, Winnipeg, Manitoba (204-942-7186).
Vantage Vintage Boutique: This Exchange District shop specializes in authentic vintage garments from the late 1800s to the 1980s, meticulously cleaned and restored. The boutique offers unique pieces that seamlessly integrate into modern wardrobes. Queer owned/operated & LGBTQ2S+ safe space. They have an Instagram account (@vantagevintagebtq) and they can be found on Etsy (vantagevintagebtq.etsy.com).
Located at 70 Albert Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba (204-801-5681).
The Clothing Bakery Ltd: Offers sustainable clothing and accessories from the 1970s to today, including vintage t-shirts, sweatshirts, denim, and a variety of jackets. They also provide a buy, sell, and trade system in-store. Can be found on Instagram (@clothingbakery). Two guys founded it and it appears the fashions are catering to men. Website: clothingbakery.com
Located at unit 105-70 Arthur Street, Winnipeg, MB (204-949-9250).
The Collab Shop: This Exchange District Filippino male-owned shop is a streetwear, sneaker, and vintage store featuring ’90s and early 2000s nostalgia, including sports, band, and movie-themed items, as well as pre-loved streetwear from sought-after brands. Basketball is their passion. They are on Instagram (@collabshopwpg) and YouTube (@TheCollabShopWinnipeg). Website: collabshopwpg. com.
Located at 246 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB (204-306-4664).
The Jar: “Second-Hand Vintage Store.” Focuses on vintage clothing from the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s, emphasizing items made in the USA and Canada. Known for rare finds and deadstock items like limited-edition band tees and vintage designer pieces. Vintage fashion and accesssories owned and curated by Blue. Female owned. Found on Instagram (@thejarwpg).
Located at 555-70 Arthur Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba (204-795-3580).
Thrift Nihilist: “Curated Vintage Clothing – Streetwear & Antiques” This Exchange District shop balances wearable, timeless staples with unique, eccentric items, including wildlife-themed apparel and a selection of antiques and furniture. Found on Instagram (@thriftnihilist).
Located at 75 Albert St., 2nd Floor, Winnipeg, Manitoba. DM on Instagram for inquiries (@thriftnihilist).
Shop Take Care: New, pre-worn consignment clothing. Vintage and contemporary items. Home goods and accessories. Two locations in Winnipeg.
“Shop Take Care offers gender-inclusive consignment clothing + home goods in Winnipeg, MB.
Opened in February 2017, Shop Take Care aims to create a safe shopping experience for everyone. Clothing is not distinguished by gender, instead, the entire shop is organized by colour.
“I wanted it to be a very safe inclusive space for all gender expressions and identities,” said Jill Zdunich, the owner of Shop Take Care.
In addition to a curated collection of consignment clothing, ranging from sizes XS to 4X, Shop Take Care offers a selection of small batch made, handmade goods from brands across North America, that focus on ethical and sustainable practices.”
Weekend Vintage Winnipeg: Two Locations to serve you. Located in the Johnston Terminal at The Forks, this shop offers a variety of vintage clothing and accessories, promoting sustainable fashion choices. The second location is at Mulvey Market. They offer curated, high-quality pieces sourced from Europe, Japan, the USA, and beyond, emphasizing sustainability and timeless styles for eco-conscious shoppers. Lots of clothing such as t-shirts and jeans, and purses. Instagram (@weekendvtg). Website: weekendvtg.com. They are also found on Facebook (Weekend Vintage).
Old House Revival Company: A four-storey antique mall featuring a vast array of vintage items, from furniture and decor to collectibles, making it a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts. Host to 40 different vendors! Found on Instagram (@oldhouserevival). Website: theoldhouserevival.com
Located at 324 Young Street in Winnipeg, Manitoba (204-477-4286).
Época Haus: Mid-Century Modern Vintage Home Decor. Find that perfect preloved piece for your home! Website: epocahaus.com
Located at 1318 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba. (204-338-7044)
Redeemed The Consignment Place: “Winnipeg’s premier consignment store.” A well-regarded consignment store offering an ever-changing selection of women’s apparel, accessories, and home goods. The store focuses on mid- to high-end consignment clothing, emphasizing trendy, contemporary styles and designer labels. Customers can find a variety of pre-owned clothing, accessories, and home goods at affordable prices. I found a beautiful vintage Elizabeth Taylor brooch, a gorgeous faux pearl necklace, and two sterling silver rings. There are great vintage finds as well and they help people earn money while promoting sustainability. They can be found on Instagram (@redeemedtheconsignment).
Location: 410 Academy Road (204-474-1182) Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Kildonan MCC Thrift (Mennonite Central Committee): Non-profit. Support your community. A large warehouse full of clothing, jewelry, gifts, collectibles and furniture. They also have a Vintage Lane Department way in the bakc that has older and more collectible/nostaglic items. I found a beautiful vintage faux fur jacket at Vintage Lane. Senior’s discount day (20% off) is on the first Thursday of the month. For those over 55. Website: Shop.lovetothrift.ca. Find your local shop at mccthrift.com
Located at 445 Chalmers Avenue in Winnipeg, Manitoba (204-668-0967).
Selim’s Antiques: Western Canada’s Finest and Longest Standing Estate Jeweller and Antique Dealer. An outstanding selection of fine quality antiques & collectibles, art & jewellery.
Located at 801 Corydon Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba (204-284-9886)
Gerry’s Antiques & Collectibles: Gerry Beelen offers a wide variety of vintage items, antiques, and collectibles. I bought some Sherman jewelry from him! He sources his inventory from estate sales as well as other local sources. Gerry sells mainly hard goods such as jewelry, crystal, porcelain figurines, glassware, and china. He sells within Canada and the US.
Located at 1000 Isbister Street in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Call for an appointment: 204-330-8642.
Atomic Age Vintage: Lover of all things vintage. You can find Atomic Age Vintage set up at Old House Revival (324 Young Street), Johnston Terminal Antique Mall at the Forks, and Pollock’s Hardware (1407 Main Street) in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Instagram (@atomic_age_vintage) (204-795-6647)
A & A Jewellers: Jewelry Repair, Engraving, & Vintage Jeweller. They sell jewelry on consignment. 60/40. I bought some Sherman jewelry there! And I have sold some of my mom’s jewelry on consignment at their store.
Johnston Terminal Antique Mall: With items curated by over 30 consignors, the Johnston Terminal Antique Mall show you the history of Winnipeg and beyond in their vintage finds. Follow the signs to the basement of the Johnston Terminal at the Forks to peruse their seemingly endless rooms of antiques. I bought some Sherman jewelry from there! Tony Costa is the owner.
The Faded Barn: Antique Design – Preserving the Prairie Past. This shop is in The Village at Pineridge Hollow. It isn’t in Winnipeg, but it’s just a half-hour drive northeast from the city centre in Oakbank. This shop has lots of vintage gifts and treasures including jewelry, trinkets, and decor. They buy antiques! The store also boasts some antiques and new contemporary items. Instagram @thefadedbarn
Located at Pineridge Hollow, 67086 Heatherdale Road, Oakbank, Manitoba. (204-777-3881)
Brian’s Corner Antiques and Thrift: Buy – Sell – Trade – Consign. “I like old stuff!” Brian buys very old items dating all the way up to the ’60s and ’70s. Instagram @brianscornerantiques
Located at 867 Wall Street in Winnipeg, Manitoba. (204-781-9603)
Mulvey Market: Winnipeg’s largest year-round indoor flea market. Features 40+ vendors selling a vast variety of new and gently used products, vintage items, and antiques. Canteen available.
Thirsty’s Flea Market: A number of vendors that sell a variety of items such as antiques, nostalgia, memorabilia, vintage jewelry, and collectibles. Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and most holiday Mondays.
Things Supporting the Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Operated by the Volunteer Committee for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet since 1967, Things is a specialty boutique that sells consigned and donated items. They offer gently used antique, vintage, and contemporary collectibles, including furniture, jewelry, china, crystal, silver, artwork, and linens. Website: thingsforrwb.com
Located at 913 and 911 Corydon Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba. (204-284-7331).
Vintage in the Village: Vintage in the Village carries a wide variety of vintage items and collectibles. We are a small store, so we strive to carry the best, currently desired items at reasonable prices. We strive to remain at the forefront of current design and decorating trends. We are constantly getting new (old) items in our shop that are unique, like our customers. Website: VintageintheVillage.com
Located at 194 Osborne Street (entrance on Gertrude), Winnipeg, Manitoba. (204-287-2278)
Pollock’s Hardware Co-Op: In addition to their usual items, Pollock’s also sells vintage cookware and kitchen items. “Pollock’s is a gem of a store and if you’ve never been it’s well worth the visit and you’ll always be able to find an employee to help you.” A sampling of these items can be viewed on their Instagram page or by visiting the store. Instagram: @pollockshardwarecoop. Website: http://www.pollockshardwarecoop.com
Located at 1407 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba. (204-582-5007)
Gold Time Horology: Ilya Goldman of Ukrainian descent is known by others as the “finest watchmaker to ever work in Winnipeg – and one of the very best in all of Canada.” He is certified in all the luxury brands. He will fix expensive and inexpensive watches. He carries an inventory of quality watches as well as jewelry on consignment including vintage pieces (I have seen Sherman there!). Visit his Facebook page: Ilya Goldman-Watchmaker. Instagram @goldtimehorology. Website: http://www.goldtimehorology.com
Located at 723 Borebank at Grant, Winnipeg, Manitoba. (204-890-6210)
Green and Gold Vintage, Winnipeg: Vintage and recylcled jewelry. Old made new. (Instagram – @greenandgold.vintage)
Wright On Vintage Wares: Tracy Wright. We can be found at the Old House Revival Co. – at Portage Avenue and Young Street in Winnipeg. Also on Etsy and sometimes at in-person shows. (Instagram – @wrightonvintagewares).
Not a Taco Shop: A bit of everything except tacos. Rescuer of things and rehomer of stuff. Instagram: @notatacoshoppe. Located in Winnipeg.
Atomic Age Vintage: Find them at Old House Revival Co., Johnston Terminal Antique Mall and Pollock’s Hardware – Winnipeg MB. Facebook: @atomicagevintage
Grand Trunk Vintage and Nostalgia Sale (Assiniboia Downs, Winnipeg)
Manitoba Antique Association Sale (Viscount Gort Hotel, Winnipeg. Held in the spring and fall/holiday seasons)
Junk Wagon: Antiques, Vintage & Collectible Sale – Over 60 vendors, booths, & tables. (Winakwa C.C.)
Estate Sales
Garage/Yard Sales
Flea Markets or Bazaars
Fundraisers to support organizations (“Church Basement Sales”)
Look for local or Canadian sellers on these platforms:
Online buy and sell site Kijiji
Online buy and sell site on Facebook called Marketplace (ex. Del Del Stevens for furniture, June Warkentin for jewelry)
Whatnot
Etsy
Poshmark
eBay
Outside of Winnipeg:
Interlake Thriftiques: Located in Winnipeg Beach Plaza. Buyers and sellers for the Interlake Cottage & Country decor, Antiques & Uniques. “Nothing is too unusual.” Open May – October. Call ahead to ensure they are open. 204-299-5429. Facebook: Search “Interlake Thriftiques”
Grandmont Antiques: #78091 Rd 2W. From the junction of Hwy 67 & 236 at Stonewall, travel 12 kms W on Hwy 67 to Rd 2W, then turn right (north) on Rd 2W, go 4 kms to #78091. “Over the last 20 years we have been a premiere source for unique pieces from antiquity to the early 20th century. Our experience is with period furnishings, decorative arts, architectural elements and fine art.” Follow on Instagram @grandmont_antiques. http://www.grandmontantiques.com. 204-383-5382.
Eras Antiques & Art: Located at 636 Rosser Avenue, Brandon, MB. Unique shop with 5,000+ items from all areas of collecting. Set up in a creative way for the customer to browse easily. Instagram: @erasantiques. 204-726-9408 (Daryl Hicks)
Delaquis Antiques: Located at 2108 Hwy 59 (20 min S of Winnipeg) Quality antique furniture & collectibles available. Beautiful selection ranging from small to large pieces. Something for everyone! Furniture repairs & refinishing. 204-388-4850 (Patrick). http://www.delaquis-antiques.com. Instagram @delaquis.antiques
The Gypsy Traders: 238 Manitoba Avenue in Selkirk, Manitoba. Antiques, vintage, gifts, furniture up-styling, local crafters, DIY workshops, Country Chic Paints. Instagram: @the_gypsy_traders. 204-482-7677
Let me know if you know of any other places to find vintage or antique items for sale! Happy shopping!
Angela G. Gentile, BSW, MSW 