Today we’d like to introduce you to Stuart Grannen.
Stuart, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have been buying and selling architectural antiques since I was seven years old. I started with stained glass and went from there. My formal education is as an archeologist and historian. Since 1981 I have worked in the architectural antique business. I founded Architectural Artifacts in Chicago in 1987. Since then the store has expanded to 80,000sf. We buy all over the world and only deal in the highest quality merchandise.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Truthfully, AAI has been very successful from the start. We put our hearts and backs into the business and that has paid off.
Please tell us about Architectural Artifacts.
AAI specializes in original, one of a kind, quality antiques and furnishings from North America, South America, and Europe. We are known for great quality, large-scale antiques for the home, retail and hospitality business. We are most proud of the fact that our showroom is the most beautiful and unique in the world. What sets us apart (way apart) is that our inventory is very cool, very useful and very competitively priced. You will not find our offerings anywhere else in the world.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory from my childhood is going to the Met in New York and looking at all the wonderful art and antiques on display. Our family fun was to visit all of the great museums from Maryland to Maine.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4325 N Ravenswood Chicago, IL 60613
- Website: Architecturalartifacts.com
- Phone: 773-348-0622
- Email: stuart@architecturalartifacts.com
- Instagram: @architecturalartifacts
- Facebook: @architecturalartifacts
- Twitter: @ArchArtifacts
- Yelp: http://www.yelp.com/biz/architectural-artifacts-chicago-2
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
