Old, Quirky Treasures Fill the Shelves at Austin’s Uncommon Objects

Are you looking for some alabaster eagle bookends? How about a meat puzzle or some vintage typography? Whatever tickles your fancy, you’ll most likely be able to find something of interest at Uncommon Objects.

It’s best to go without a particular item in mind and see where you end up. The shop offers you a chance to step into the past and explore with as much depth as you please. With over twenty dedicated vendors working together to create a one-of-a-kind medley of items, there’s no telling what you’ll stumble upon.

Uncommon Objects has sat in the heart of the South Congress business district for over twenty years now, since 1991. Steve Wiman and Ed Gage originally partnered to open the shop, growing the business and expanding over a period of several years. Wiman remains today as the sole owner of Uncommon Objects.

Locals and tourists alike come and go to find treasures they can’t possibly get anywhere else. Dealers are hand-selected by Wiman and inventory changes frequently as they often show up early with their latest findings, to replace purchased items.

One of my favorite things about Uncommon Objects is it has managed to put an Austin twist on a pastime usually reserved for older people. It doesn’t matter who you go with – young or old, man or woman – everyone can find something they like, despite the fact that most of what’s in the shop dates no later than the 1960’s or 1970’s.

Each individual vendor displays a unique style all their own with their booth design, which contributes to the store’s raw, free-spirited aura. Endless colors and interesting textures peak your curiosity as you roam the aisles and backrooms containing what could be your home’s next conversation starter.

If you’re decorating a home or apartment and want to stand out from the crowd, Uncommon Objects is your place. It might cost you a little more than your neighborhood Ikea or Homegoods, but the premium comes in knowing you’ve obtained something all your own. Not to mention the fact that you’re supporting local vendors and allowing them to continue to do what they’re good at and passionate about.

Another plus Uncommon Objects adds to the local community is the recycling of goods. Austin is very much about being green. Buying used rather than purchasing mass-produced, new items is one way of doing just that.

So whatever you’re into, next time you’re on South Congress, know you’ll be able to find something at Uncommon Objects – maybe something you didn’t even know you were looking for.

 

@mattchampionatx asks:

Have you ever visited Uncommon Objects?

 

Photos via UncommonObjects.com.