INTERIOR DESIGN

Hunting for Treasures.

The time is right – and safer – to be on the lookout for antiques and fun finds.

For more than a year, I have been itching to get out of Dodge. I know, in talking to my friends and family, I’m not alone.

The weather is warmer, vaccines are on the rise, and I feel the urge to hop in the car, drive around, and look for interesting things for my home. I’m fairly minimalist these days and don’t need anything. But I find there’s thrill in the hunt for antiques and vintage pieces, and it does give a home character and individuality.

Just a few of the things that always catch my attention are Art Deco picture frames, Art Deco anything, cocktail glasses, cocktail tables, and classic modern chairs – not to mention wall art, vintage board games, and books.

Sure, it’s easy to shop online. But it’s much more rewarding when you take a chance to venture out in person. Sometimes you uncover a prize or three; sometimes you come home empty handed. But at least you can make a day trip out of it and get lunch or dinner out on a pleasant day. That’s a win every time.

West Plaza Art and Antique District

You should absolutely check out the three blocks of the 45th Street and State Line Road stores if you’ve never been – or return now if you haven’t been in a while.

Christopher FIlley always has a pleasing, eclectic mix of art, furniture, and objects. SID & Co., by interior designer Mark Sudermann, sells new home accessories as well as American vintage and European antiques. These are just a few of the stores – you’ll have to stroll the sidewalks.

Insider tip: Check out the hours; some of the stores aren’t open the typical 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. retail hours.

Where to eat: The Country Club Plaza with its mix of local and chain restaurants is nearby, but so is Joe’s Kansas City Bar-BQue, the original gas station location.

Nova's Vintage Cactus Creek

Columbus Park/River Market

These two locations are within a few blocks of driving distance from each other, and it’s fun to get out and stroll around the neighborhoods.

Go to Nova’s Vintage in Columbus Park; owner Nova Engle favors a tropical Hawaiian style with rattan, clay pottery, and lots of plants. On the River Market side, check out the River Market Antique Mall, a 30,000-square-foot warehouse filled with more than 150 dealers.

Insider tip: While the lively City Market is fun on Saturdays, head out on different days for a more relaxed experience. Check out the hours of the stores and restaurants you want to visit.

Where to eat: Try the Neapolitan pizza from Il Lazzarone for a late lunch/early dinner and get a scoop or two from Betty Rae’s Ice Cream.

Weston

It’s about a 30-minute drive north from Kansas City to Weston, where the city’s Main Street is made of pre-Civil War buildings.

I enjoy Cactus Creek, stocked with vintage finds, cowhides, and clothing and strolling the other stores on Main Street in their fascinating mid-1800s spaces.

Insider tip: If you enjoy hiking, stop at Weston Bend State Park along the way. Don’t forget a change of shoes if you’re going to dinner.

Where to eat: I love Green Dirt Farm, and the café is a scenic spot to share a cheese plate on a picnic table. One of my favorite places for dinner in the whole Kansas City area is Noah’s Cupboard on Main Street – because it’s a small space, make reservations. Also get a pint at O’Malley’s 1842 Pub, the space is amazing!

Glenwood Antique Mall, Curious Sofa

Glenwood Antique Mall

For those who miss Mission Road Antique Mall, the Glenwood Antique Mall is a pleasant addition. It’s located in a strip shopping center just north of the former beloved Glenwood cinema.

Insider tip: There are a lot of vendors, so stop by the front desk for a map, and ask for guidance from an employee if you’re looking for something particular.

Where to eat: Head north down Metcalf a few blocks to Downtown Overland Park to Strang Hall, a food parlor with numerous eateries including sushi, Italian, street tacos, and more. It features delightful outdoor seating.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stacy Downs writes about all things design and is a partner at MAD Creative, a branding and communications firm in Kansas City.

EDITOR’S NOTE

The rigors of work, family and the refocus that comes from what we have all been through has had an effect on our team of contributors. At her insistence, I tried to talk her out of it, Stacy Downs is leaving us with this issue. I want to say thank you to Stacy for the amazing work she has done over the course of her tenure at Today Kansas City. She has helped us make this a publication to be proud of and to look forward to. Thank you Stacy.