‘Since my first visit to the shop a few months ago my perceptions of it have changed greatly; from working here I have seen how the display and changeover of stock is a well thought out process: something which has a greater than expected affect on the way in which a buyer interacts with their surroundings. The space available at Town House means that not only is it an antiques shop in the most obvious sense, but it is an experience to walk around – you enter the first room, a showroom, and from here you discover the basement kitchen, a place where the objects for sale surround you as they would if they were part of the original kitchen. However, one thing that stops Town House from existing solely as a shop is the gallery space beyond the courtyard outside. During my time here it has housed three artists’ exhibitions and served as a showroom for paintings and studio pottery for sale. The versatility of this space and how it adapts for each purpose is demonstrative of the way in which the shop is able to stay up to date with its surroundings and within the changing climate of the antiques trade.
This internship has shown me that the antiques trade is ever-changing and, arguably, in decline. However, it has also taught me how enjoyable it can be – the process of discovering something rare or valuable is extremely rewarding, not for the value of that object, but for the sense of achievement it brings with it. Fiona’s extensive knowledge and passion for her business and the month long exposure to the trade has taught me a lot.’