Vieille Branch – Things of Old

Forage for French antiques at new Vieille Branche – Things of Old

When Jen Hillhouse met her now-husband French expat Jean-Charles Lehub (JC), little did she know that her freelance graphic design career would transform into a livelihood in the realm of antiquing, in France no less.

Now at the helm of new boutique Vieille Branche – Things of Old, Jen and JC have created a slice of French history in an industrial pocket of Newstead. Meaning old branch in French (an endearing term used by the French when greeting old friends), Vieille Branche is a venture that came about when JC took Jen to France to meet his friends and family late last year. The plan was for the couple to holiday in France for six weeks but, after visiting several antique shops, the trip was extended to a five-month buying sojourn. Taken by the charm of the remnants of French history, the pair acquired a container of antique furniture and homewares, and then journeyed back to Brisbane to finalise the plans for a new shop.

Once they were back home, the couple discovered a shopfront in Newstead, and the doors to Vieille Branche officially opened last Friday. Inside the shop, you’ll find local Nico underwear and Mossy Antlers terrariums nestled amongst the vintage French furnishings and knick-knacks. Jen’s mother is photo framer and also works from the shop, and the plan is to have other creative projects such as art exhibitions operating out of the space.

Vieille Branche – Things of Old
22 Ross Street, Newstead
Ph: 0421 473 729
Open: Tuesday by appointment, Wednesday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Thursday 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, Friday to Saturday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

 

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