THE MARKET PLACE AT THE BIG STORE
If you are undergoing withdrawal symptoms between seasons of the popular Masterpiece Classic series “Downton Abbey,” you might enjoy a visit to The Market Place at the Big Store.
Historic DeFuniak Springs sets the atmosphere for the antiques, artisan crafts and collectibles shop.
“The Big Store is a historical building that Mr. Dennis Ray owns,” said Pam Hutchins. “Tom (Hutchins) and I — we own the Hotel DeFuniak — decided we would lease two-thirds of this building.”
The hoteliers opened their antique shop in August, although Dennis and Brenda Ray have operated their antique business for several years.
Regardless of which side you shop, you’ll find treasures new and old. Beautiful, stately antique beds can be found alongside modern trinkets and artisan wares. A modern glass bottle chandelier could add whimsy to a room, or an antique crystal counterpart would create a dining room fit for a countess luncheon.
“It’s open enough, and people won’t get claustrophobic and overwhelmed,” Hutchins added about the displays. “And there’s something interesting in every corner.”
LOCATION: 782 Baldwin Ave., DeFuniak Springs, with a view of the lake
HOURS: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays
TELEPHONE: 951-1042
WEBSITE: www.hoteldefuniak.com
