Allison Gelb Pincus

Illustration by Esra Roise

Alison Pincus may have founded One Kings Lane, but even she can't secure the fast-moving merchandise at her Groupon-meets-Gilt Groupe web hub. "It sold out so quickly!" says Pincus of the antique tea service she had her eye on. The site -- which she launched in 2009 with apparel exec Susan Feldman -- aggregates thousands of fragmented decor brands with the "flash sale" model. But the Hachette digital expat isn't stopping at commerce: The startup recently acquired Helicopter, the design consultancy behind Domino magazine, signaling a move toward content.

One Kings Lane

Watch these videos to learn about how Pincus' online shopping sales work, and her approach to building the One Kings Lane brand.

Q: Where do you go for inspiration?

A: When I'm home, I can always find inspiration through looking out the windows of our apartment. From the West side, I can see Chinatown, North Beach and downtown. From the North side, I can see all of Marin and Berkeley. From the South side, I can beyond the 49ers stadium. And, from the East side, I can see the sparkling Golden Gate bridge. In addition to the spectacular views, I watch the cars pass on Highways 101 and 280 throughout the day and night. I am always reminded that San Francisco is sparkling hub of the old and the new.

"Design has always served as a personal inspiration. Visiting hotel lobbies was always my approach to seeing new trends and practices. I believe the everyday person deserves special access, just like the professionals."