FOR THE INFORMED SHOPPER

In a previous blog I referred to the recently updated name for Antique Row: Antique Row Art and Design District. This expanded description refers to a subtle changing of the guard, more apparent with the longer established Antique Row than in the newer, already evolving shopping areas of the SOSO Design District, Georgia Avenue and the Warehouse District. The shopping crowd now seems to be younger, and tastes are more contemporary or, at least, eclectic than before. Art galleries, design studios as well as building supply companies are becoming more prominent on the Row.  The mix, I feel, is inevitable and healthy.  All or most of your design needs can be met in one place, is one way of looking at it. The Historical Society of Palm Beach County is sponsoring its yearly “Evening on Antique Row,” April 11, from 6- 9 pm.   This is good opportunity to store-hop and survey what is available on the Row and explore the wide array of merchandise and services offered.

The Warehouse District continues to expand.  Show Pony led the way there, and they too are not resting on their laurels as they expand their offerings and services.  They have a beautiful, new website: showponypalmbeach.com for those not lucky enough to visit the mothership. Shipping is free on the website. Show Pony is also expanding a program to represent artists and artisans in the store and on-line. Their shell-motif decorative items are popular, one-of-a-kind items. A newly sponsored artisan is creating unique works using the piedra dura technique developed in 17^th-century Tuscany, called scagliola, to simulate polished marble inlay.  Tuke Bazaar is a pop-up store currently on the premises. It offers women’s clothing and specialty items from young European designers. The owner’s background in fashion and retail in New York City is evident in this quietly chic store. Ladies, it’s certainly worth a visit.  

Over on Georgia Avenue there’s always a lot of activity. The Factory will open soon. Mrs. Fairfax is a newly opened shop curated perfectly with vintage accessories, thoughtfully displayed. Eclectic Patina has been on the Avenue for years and continues to carry the gamut of vintage items for the home from antiques to 20^th-century.  

Tour de force shell plinths with urns from Show Pony