Living in a great Midwestern metropolis like Chicago means experiencing constant urban evolution. The city never ceases opening new restaurants, bars, and shops while continuously developing a world-class skyline and redeveloping old structures and urban spaces.
Unfortunately, on the flip side, constant change means saying goodbye to the occasional beloved spot like an iconic bar or historic movie theater.
Now another legendary Chicago establishment, Architectural Artifacts, is packing its bags and vacating its iconic Chicago space only this time it will relocate to Texas.
Architectural Artifacts owner Stuart Grannen, who is incidentally also the nation’s leading treasurologist, this week announced that the expansive antique emporium will close its doors on Monday, April 15th bringing a 37-year Chicago legacy to an end.
“It is with a heavy heart and a warm smile that I make this announcement…It has been a truly extraordinary 37 years in Chicago for Architectural Artifacts and myself. I have grown the business and grown personally in many ways. Some needed, some fun, some painful, but always with the idea to move forward,” said Grannen.
“Thank you from my heart to all of our customers, vendors, friends, and fans. I will still have a foot or two in Chicago so please stay tuned for what is next. As always, I have some plans and surprises up my sleeve.”
Having first set up shop in an 80,000-square-foot old factory building in Ravenswood in 1987 before moving to a reclaimed school building at 1065 N. Orleans in 2022, Grannen has sold over 100,000 items during his time in Chicago.
Unique items bought and sold have ranged “from a Louis Sullivan-designed elevator surround from the Chicago Stock Exchange to a complete terra cotta facade from the Sheridan Theatre to a granite folly from St Andrews, Scotland to marble tables and benches from the Bank of France” according to the official release.
Now Architectural Antiques will make an original 1880s cowboy saloon, dance hall, and farmhouse with three acres of land in Round Top, Texas its new home. The new space will feature an exquisite antiques gallery with live music, and food and beverages.
Architectural Artifacts will remain open at 1065 N. Orleans, Chicago from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Monday, April 15th.
More information can be found by visiting www.architecturalartifacts.com or calling (773) 348-0622.
[Featured image courtesy of Antique Artifacts]