Stepping through the doors of Sylvaine’s French Antiques & Collectibles at Aspen Grove, it is easy to feel as if you have been transported back in time. All five senses soak in the charm and the beauty of the atmosphere. There’s classical music playing softly in the background. The faintest scent of maybe lavender or possibly vanilla fills the air, and there is often a selection of French jams and crackers set out for sampling. The visual impact of the carefully curated showroom is a combination of beautiful, hand crafted pieces as well as an assortment of precious, sometimes fragile, collectibles.
Sylvaine Houghson, the owner, explains what she believes contributes to the unique atmosphere of her store. She says, “Most if not all of the wood that is present on my sales floor is hundreds and hundreds of years old. In terms of quality, durability, and beauty of the grain – these old trees and handcrafted pieces are unparalleled.”
She continues, “These pieces are like a magical bridge through time – when you are in my shop and you place your hands on a piece, you are very likely touching the same spot that an individual many years ago, dressed in a dramatically different way would have done while connecting with their surroundings.”
In addition to the handcrafted furniture and larger pieces, Houghson’s shop also offers European vintage pieces such as barware, collector stemware, and decanters. She feels honored that her business supports 65 other artisans and master craftsmen in fueling their visions and art form. An example of this are her Organic Hand Loomed Chenille and Velour throws that are custom woven by artisans with all natural plant dyes in traditional styles and using techniques that are approximately 400 years old.
“My customers regularly tell me that my shop feels like a sanctuary to them – they feel inspired to slow down, relax, and come home to themselves,” Houghson says.
One of her regular customers, Charlynne B, says, “What a fabulous day it was when I discovered this jewel in Littleton’s crown! This store is absolutely worth a visit. Sylvaine has created a lovely place to browse and procure incredible French and European items of elegance, beauty and charm that would make any home special. Visiting this store is like transporting yourself to a French chateaux or estate without leaving the States. Warning: You too will be enticed to purchase a treasure that you just can’t do without. In short, Sylvaine’s just might become your new ‘happy place’. It certainly has become mine.”
Enjoying the experience, having fun, is an important element of Sylvaine’s approach as a business owner. She creates an invitation to linger, to take your time as you wander through the aisles. Pausing whenever something new or especially beautiful catches your eye.
Customer Jen I describes it this way, “I fell in love with this shop the first time I went in. The staff and the owner, Sylvaine, were incredibly welcoming and helpful. I have enjoyed purchasing a variety of items - furniture, decorative items, dishes, several gorgeous mirrors - that have given my renovated spaces the character and warmth they needed. The shop also has a number of items that are from current artisans, including beautiful stationery, soaps, French preserves, and cookies. I had tried quite a number of them and have never been disappointed.”
In addition, Jen I mentions another service that Sylvaine provides for her customers. She says, “I have also used Sylvaine’s design services in my home. She has helped me figure out where to place both items I purchased at her store and family heirlooms. She has also helped me find the right piece for spaces that needed a finishing touch. The process has been incredibly fun and the results are beautiful. I cannot recommend the shop or Sylvaine’s design services highly enough!”
Houghson has created a destination showroom bringing expert craftsmanship and old world charm to the greater Littleton area. Her true gift is her ability to be genuinely welcoming. She encourages questions, loves discussing the history behind the pieces in her store, and is dedicated to ensuring these irreplaceable items are preserved and appreciated. Prepare to be transported.
“Most if not all of the wood that is present on my sales floor is hundreds and hundreds of years old. In terms of quality, durability, and beauty of the grain – these old trees and handcrafted pieces are unparalleled.” Sylvaine Houghson
She encourages questions, loves discussing the history behind the pieces in her store, and is dedicated to ensuring these irreplaceable items are preserved and appreciated. Prepare to be transported.