Baobab Antiquity Trading, a vintage and antique furniture and d??cor shop, opened in August at the Hilton Quarry Centre. The store is owned by sisters Michelle Haldane and Brigette Johnson. Michelle is responsible for the sourcing of the stock, and lives in England with her husband Bryan, who has been in the antique restoration trade for the last 15 years. Brigette is an artist and exhibition designer at a local museum, and is responsible for the running of the shop.'For many years we have talked about opening a shop, but it wasn't until our last visit to South Africa that we saw that there was a growing demand for French and antique furniture. So, we took the leap and our dream has now become a reality. Our shop is in the most beautiful location, filled with the most beautiful things and the response has been more than we could have hoped for. says Michelle.
Apart from being eco-friendly, furniture made in the past was made to last lifetimes, and with craftsmanship and timber that is hard to find today. We focus very heavily on up-cycling, ensuring that items are restored to their natural beauty or given a new lease on life. All homes could do with a little vintage! Something that was once loved and treasured with a story to tell, that can now become part of your story.
'Baobab is all about beautiful things. A lady came into the shop, gave a big sigh and said that our shop was good for the soul! That's what we are about ' sourcing beautiful pieces of furniture and wholesome d??cor for your home. In the words of British craftsman and designer William Morris - Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful