Seattle's Alana Tang Shares The Story Of Her Vintage Furniture Shop

Having grown up in Seattle, relocating her vintage furniture shop to the city’s Chinatown-International District was something of a homecoming for Alana Tang, whose father owned a business in the area for years. Much like the vibrant culture that enlivens the neighborhood, Tang’s shop, In The Comfort Of, radiates with her palpable love for giving vintage goods new life. Here, Tang shares her story and talks more about the move.

Tell us how you got started.

I started In The Comfort Of in 2019 while in school for apparel design. It all began with a travertine table base I found at my local Goodwill. As I searched around for a secondhand glass tabletop, I was inspired by all the exciting finds. I knew right then I wanted to try my hand at offering curated vintage pieces.

How do you curate your shop?

My personal design philosophy leans toward simplicity and timelessness. Midcentury design is a big influence, but I don’t feel confined to just that style. When it comes to curating the shop, I trust my instincts, but a lot of my inspiration comes from earlier modern design movements. I want our pieces to feel like they could belong in any era, just as designs from movements like De Stijl have stood the test of time.

Why did you move your shop to the Chinatown-International District?

Some of my fondest childhood memories are of the CID. From going to Lam’s Seafood Market with my mother, to gathering with my extended family to yum cha at Jade Garden, this neighborhood represents precious family moments and carefully preserved traditions. It only felt right to return and pour love back into it.

What do you hope people feel in your shop?

Whether they find something big or small, I hope folks leave feeling inspired.