Antiques stores are a rare gem among the commercialised furniture scene. But with the convenience of abundant chain stores and online marketplaces, why bother hunting down your local antique dealer?
There are so many things to love about shopping your local vintage wares. If you haven’t already discovered the joy of browsing old homewares, here are five top reasons to become a regular at your local antique shop.
Unique Finds in Antiques Stores
Sick of seeing the same coffee table in every homemaker centre? Looking for a way to spice up your interior design. Antique shops are home to the most unique, eclectic furnishings and decors that you simply can not find elsewhere. You may not even know what exactly you’re after. Rest assured the antiques store near you will have a random item to spark your creativity.
Investment Opportunities
Unlike modern furniture items which decrease in value the second they leave the shelf, antiques actually appreciate in value. The superior quality of their make and scarcity of antique store pieces mean they often fetch quite a price as they age.
Plus, you may be able to bargain with the seller to get a better price. To do so, we suggest doing some research into the piece you’re eyeing so you have a firm grasp of its value to avoid being ripped off.
Durability and Timelessness
While we’re on the topic of value – there is a reason there remains a strong market for old furniture. The fast paced, mass produced nature of modern furniture giants means products simply do not last longer than a few years. It’s unlikely that you’ve seen an Ikea table in a second-hand store.
On the other hand, antiques shops from Melbourne to Brisbane and every where between are full of made-to-last timber wares from decades past. The workmanship and materials used produce sturdy, durable and robust pieces.
As an extension of this durable creation, the resulting items are timeless in style. You’ll notice the antique shops near you won’t exhibit any trendy 2020s items. Instead, the stores are fully of impeccable quality furnishings that integrate seamlessly with just about any design style.
Environmental Benefits
Having furniture with such an impressive life span is a huge benefit for the environment. Sourcing second-hand items from your local antiques shop or antique store website is a sustainable option of shopping.
You’re helping reduce landfill, minimise resource use and cut back on the waste created in modern mass production chains.
Amazing Experiences
Perhaps the most intangible benefit to perusing your way through antiques stores in Australia is the experience itself. The humble hideaways hold a certain warmth and charm that will have you roaming for hours.
Not to mention the incredible history and stories each piece of antique furniture holds. You may discover a certain item you never knew existed, or maybe an exceptionally unique piece of art that you resonate with. Store holders are often more than happy to discuss the story of their pieces, so you may even learn a thing or two!
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