The large house on the corner of First Avenue and McKinley Street in Phoenix was built in 1910. While the exterior has undoubtedly been updated throughout the century, we're just happy much of the inside's decoration is holding on to the past; the downtown Phoenix house-turned-antique-trove is a great place to satisfy our vintage cravings.
Downtown Antiques opened in the space, at 801 N. First Avenue, three months ago. A step inside reveals a clutter-free environment (not to be taken for granted), and an abundance of vintage, collectible, and retro items.
We spent a couple hours shopping the new store. Check out what we'd take, what we'd leave and why we'd go back after the jump...
Things we're taking home:
1. 12-piece canister set
Everything deserves its own place. Store your spices, coffee, flour and sugar in these cute canisters for $35.
2. Old photographs of Downtown Phoenix
These black and white photographs from the Library of Congress depict Phoenix in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A lot has changed since those days, but you can spot San Carlos Hotel in one of the photos of a Phoenix parade on Central Avenue. The other two images show a view from Jefferson St. looking east and Dorris-Heyman Furniture Co. store. Hang onto time with these $50 framed photographs.
3. Old Singer sewing machine
Up your sewing cred with this vintage sewing machine for $51.
4. Vintage pottery
These pottery pieces range in color, shape and size, but they're all beautiful. Prices range from $20 to $50.
5. Monopoly set
Everyone owns Monopoly but not everyone has a vintage Monopoly set. Pass go and collect this cool set for $50.
Things on our wish list:
1. "Mad Man" Lamp
This 1960s lamp is in good condition and has its original plastic shade. Add this snazzy piece to your décor for $149. If you like this lamp, then you'll like a lot of the other furniture that Barry Rulnick sells. His Urban Retro furniture, lighting and art fill two rooms at Downtown Antiques.
2. Lovell/Stanley Washer
Is this practical? Maybe not, but it's cool. This washer is a rare find. Stay fresh and clean with this $750 washer.
3. Vintage corrugated cardboard peace sign
Because who doesn't want peace? Or a giant $295 peace sign? We want both.
4. Hand-painted chair by Nanci Ditchman
This chair is an attention-grabber. Bright and colorful, just the way we like it. Take a seat for $240.
We'll pass on...
Rosie O'Donnell dolls. Do we really have to explain ourselves? The Rosie O'Donnell doll by Barbie is supposed to be Barbie's friend (yeah, right) and cost $40 too much. Rosie "O'Doll" by Tyco is half that price ($20), but equally unappealing. We're not even sure some children would want to play with these.
One reason to go back...
Downtown Antiques has two stories full of beautiful antiques including artwork, furniture, jewelry, textiles, accessories, books, games, toys, appliances, kitchenware, and much more.
Downtown Antiques is located at 801 N. 1st Avenue in Phoenix. Visit the store Wednesday - Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The store is open until 9 p.m. on First Fridays. For more information, call (602) 252-8034.
