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What's Matthew Mayo's advice to would-be collectors of midcentury modern decor?

Forget it; he's not spilling. "No! Stay the hell away. It's mine!" he laughed. So, with apologies, here are some of his favorite hunting grounds:

Spinario Design (www.spinario design.com): This northeast Minneapolis shop deals exclusively in midcentury modern furniture and home accessories. The Mayos have found several of their larger and most unusual pieces here.

St. Paul Retro Loop (www.stpaulretroloop.com): With several retro stores clustered near University Avenue in the Midway area, the loop is a shopping mecca for those who like it mod. The stores in the loop -- Classic Retro, Swank, Succotash and Up Six -- all offer midcentury modern furniture and decor.

Outstate consignment, thrift stores and garage sales: If you're seriously seeking affordable midcentury modern design, it might be worth a road trip to towns where demand and prices tend to be lower. While retro chic is cool in the Twin Cities, "It hasn't really hit Rochester yet," said Pamela Mayo.

KIM PALMER