Antiques on Central began an exciting new chapter in its long association with Central Phoenix when it opened its doors in a beautifully refurbished building at the northeast corner of 7th Street and Missouri in early March. Visitors to this upscale antique mall will be delighted with the fresh dynamic look of the new store and its wonderful assortment of fine antiques and collectibles.

Moving less than two miles away from its former Uptown Plaza location, Antiques on Central is “42 dealers strong,” retaining long-time dealers and welcoming several new ones. Through their love of what they do, partners Sylvia Wells, Cliff Sharar and Doris Leis, their knowledgeable dealers and a friendly staff continue to provide an enjoyable shopping experience.

The variety of merchandise in the new store ranges from fine art, estate and costume jewelry, unusual linens, china, porcelain, studio pottery, art glass, European and Asian finds, sterling and silver plate, crystal, primitives, and books. They also carry Howard’s furniture products, Silversmith silver polishes, Milsek and a wide variety of display stands, hangers and easels. The ever-popular signature $2.00 greeting cards made the move, too!

Moving a business after many years in one location presents a lot of challenges—especially when the new space is smaller. How do you do more with less? But that’s what Antiques on Central was able to accomplish after extensive refurbishing.

Previously occupied by Buffalo Exchange, a resale-clothing outlet, the new building needed some major work to transform it into a viable antique store. Plans were drawn and contractors hired. The former dressing rooms had to go; the carpet was replaced; the bathrooms remodeled and the entire shell was painted.

Many hours were spent deciding how to best lay out the dealer spaces and where the store’s cases would be placed. The goal was to allow as many dealers as possible to make the transition while providing the most effective unrestricted flow for shoppers. Fortunately, the space has a very high ceiling with dramatic beams accenting the open feel of the store and it was decided not to build walls between dealers’ spaces, adding to the openness. Booths have been creatively arranged to back up to each other with “invisible walls” between them, something almost unheard of in this business. But the honor system at Antiques on Central is alive and well! The counter from Central was salvaged and redesigned for a new, more efficient register area.

The building’s exterior has also been given a major facelift. Fresh paint and colorful planters full of flowers create an inviting look and new doors, salvaged from an empty unit at Uptown Plaza, now open to the updated Antiques on Central!

A new website has also been launched. Although www.antiquesoncentral.com is still in its infancy, it will continue to grow. Visit the site for great photos of the new store and browse the featured items pages. Many dealers are represented there. You will also enjoy the Steve Wallace Art Gallery. Take a look! Also, visit their Facebook page, call 602-264-4525 or email antiques@antiquesoncentral.com for more information.

Antiques on Central had a successful history at its former Central and Camelback location but it was time to move forward. Please stop by 730 E. Missouri to enjoy the transformation and help them make some new memories!