From Chinatown to Queen Elizabeth Park, the Main Street corridor has long been home to the best vintage shops our city has to offer. Whether you’re after century-old heirlooms or iconic mid-century modern finds, Main is the go-to stop for antique aficionados.
230 East Pender, Space-Lab.Tumblr.com/
Since its inception as an anonymous little shop at Main and East 3rd for curious treasure-hunters in the know, Space Lab has been a must-see for locals and visitors alike. Now settling comfortably into its grown-up new digs in Chinatown, the shop has grown to include a specialty coffee shop, Aubade Coffee, alongside one of the top barbershops in town, Bootleg Barbers. Owner Clint Moroz has taken his knack for finding unique one-offs and industrial finds and turning them into sought after decor pieces into a full-fledged fabrication and design studio within the shop as well. From salvaged goods to custom creations, Space Lab is my first stop when hunting down specialty finds.
The Unique Antique
1853 Main
The Unique Antique is the current stop at the Main and 3rd corner previously occupied by three other vintage spots; since claiming its stake on the block, the Unique Antique has made a name for itself by offering an eclectic assortment of vintage anomalies to satiate the inquisitive mind.
The Sellution Quality Consignment
1009 Kingsway
Since 1985, The Sellution has been a cornerstone in the Vancouver antique scene. Specializing in larger furnishings, décor items and artwork, Sellution has a strong hold on the consignment and second-hand market. Recently relocating to its new Kingsway home after a massive rent hike at its former Main and 16th mainstay, the shop is thriving in the fresh new spot, with its loyal following happily in tow.
Alexander Lamb Antiques
3217 Main
If you’re on the hunt for an experience of oddities, Alexander Lamb is the spot for you. With a collector’s take on minimalist décor up front and an unexpected museum (literally, called Exotic World Museum) in the rear, this unassuming little shop is the best known hidden gem in the city. Offering visitors a bizarre collection of unusual finds – bugs, carvings and global treasures – this is a definite yes on the Main Street Antique Row.
3520 Main, Facebook.com/bakersdozenantiques
Heather Baker has created perhaps the most well known stop for antiques in Vancouver. From vintage toys to jewellery to artwork, A Baker’s Dozen never fails to showcase the most diverse selection of hard to find antiques. With two rooms and a private viewing area, this shop caters to collectors and the curious alike.
4609 Main, ReFindHomeFurnishings.com
ReFind is a multi-award winning vintage shop with as much personality as it has style. Owner Bart Taylor injects his charm into every element of the business, resulting in as many smiles as sales. ReFind offers consignment mid-century modern furnishings, retro décor and kitsch and a wide selection of original new and vintage artwork. From lighting to barware to everything fun in-between, ReFind is Main Streets most charismatic antique experience.
