Old World Charm

Everyone knows they just don’t make…hardly anything…like they used to. Maybe that so often explains the draw of old homes and old things. The beauty and quality of antique items make our spaces lovelier, more unique, and add an element of storytelling to our surroundings. And not to mention, the adventure of finding just the right furnishing or discovering something unexpected can make antiquing an absolute thrill. Memphis has its share of great antique shops. From Collierville’s Sheffield’s Antiques to Midtown’s Antique Warehouse, there are plenty of good places to peruse booths of vintage clothing, lamps, knick knacks, and furniture. But South Front Antiques stands on its own. Housed downtown on the corner of Front Street and Talbot Avenue, this 20,000 square foot historical building houses thousands of incredible antiques and architecturally salvaged items that you can’t find anywhere else. 

Heaps of History

South Front Antiques, like many other antique stores, may feel entirely overwhelming when you first walk in. Because of the scope of the space (3 levels counting the full basement) and the amount of items in the building, it would take days for you to fully see everything there is to see. From unique hardware to art from the Ivory Coast, the immensity of the inventory is impressive to say the least. But what really makes South Front Antiques unusual is the collection of architectural items on display. This is where you can find massive pieces of stained glass, salvaged roman arch windows, or decorative ironwork. If you’re in the market for vintage lighting pieces, cornices, railings, or mantels, there are hundreds to peruse. Vintage posters and paintings hang from the booth walls in layers. We recommend taking a coffee with you, and a friend that can help you move heavy items or help you remember where something was when you inevitably get turned around. The effort is completely worth the treasures you’ll find.

Where One Door Opens…

One of the strangest places in the city has to be the basement of South Front Antiques. Down a steep staircase you’ll find a warehouse of over 1,500 antique doors, and most amazingly, they’re all labeled with their dimensions! You may need the flashlight on your phone to properly inspect the doors themselves (and that friend to help you keep track of where you are), but there is no doubt you’ll find the perfect antique door and hardware for your home. It’s truly fascinating to see over a thousand unique doors in every color, design, shape, and style. The basement also holds a plentiful selection of wavy glass windows and vintage transoms in every imaginable design.

How to Visit

The store’s hours are just as quirky as its inventory. Though it’s website says open hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am-4:30 pm, it’s best to call ahead for an appointment. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and owner Eric is kind, ready to negotiate, and willing to set up delivery for a large item. You’ll leave feeling completely satisfied, inspired by what you discovered, and happy to be bringing home a bit of history!

Check out South Front Antiques on their website or Instagram.

Photos via South Front Antiques Facebook