Antiques now popular among middle class

The influx of European expatriates into the country in recent years, coupled with the rise in the middle-class, has led to changes  in many areas, including home furnishing. 

For instance, antiques, once thought to be much loved only by Europeans and the rich, have become popular décor items among the middle class. In fact, to respond to increased demand, some entrepreneurs have specialised in stocking them.

Priscillah Mugambi runs Vintage Decor, a high-end furniture store that imports antique furniture and utensils.

She started the business two years ago when, after relocating from the US, she realised that there was a market for  imported furniture.

“In Mombasa there are very many Europeans who love unique stuff. When my first container docked, I sold everything in two weeks. That was when I realised just how much people love unique items.”

She stocks a variety of items, including wall hangings, paintings, chairs with arcading chair-backs, dovetailed chests and crystal utensils.

“When buyers know where they can get antiques, they will rush to buy them because they know that antiques are décor gems,” says Ms Mugambi, who is also a certified interior designer.

KEEN EYE

The need among home owners to be unique, especially when it comes to home décor, has created a market for classic pieces, which Ms Mugambi seeks to gratify.

Displayed in her showroom is  a variety of elegant sets of cups, wall clocks and furniture which she imported from Austria and Germany.

“This is what home owners are looking for today – that signature piece that will capture your eye from far,” says Ms Mugambi.

Antiques include works of art, piecse of furniture, or decorative object made at aleast 100 years ago, is what defines antique.

And thanks to Ms Mugambi’s keen eye for that old and rare decorative item, she has a market for her products. With the help of relatives who notify her of any auctions and send her pictures of items, Ms Mugambi has been able to satisfy her clients’ needs.

“I import my merchandise from Germany. The country has a tradition of auctioning items. But I only pick decorative, things” she says.

She adds that each piece is unique, and that it is difficult to get identical items, even though some clients ask for items in pairs. 

“If it is glassware, some break before and during shipping, making it difficult to get identical items,” she explains.

While most clients get what they are looking for, those with unusual tastes have to place orders, like the client she says wanted  a colonial-era piano made solely of wood.

“Some orders we get are out-of-the-ordinary. However, if we can get the exact piece the client is looking for, then we will ship it for them,” she says.

“Having vintage furniture in  your home creates a layered and unique space,” Ms Mugambi concludes.