As the owner of Brandywine View Antiques prepares to reopen at the shop’s new location in Chadds Ford on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 10 a.m., she’s fueled by adrenalin.
Lisa Vonderstruck, who left a revered location on Baltimore Pike in Pennsbury Township after 7 ½ years, said she’s excited to get back to the business of helping people find that perfect treasure. “It will be nice to get some sleep again,” she added.
Vonderstruck said the new space at 1244 Baltimore Pike, about eight miles from the previous shop, represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream since she was able to purchase the historic property. It includes three acres, which Vonderstruck said would enable her to feature more garden salvage.
Asked about the work needed at the 1806 building known as the Painter farm, Vonderstruck began a litany: replacing and adding landscaping, ripping out carpet, refinishing floors. Then she paused: “Basically we gutted the inside,” she said.
Based on the reaction of early visitors, the extensive renovations succeeded. Vonderstruck held a celebration on Thursday, Aug. 27, to thank her longtime associates and customers, who universally expressed enthusiasm for the new premises. Many left with purchases.
“I’ve got a whole pile of stuff to ring up,” said Linda Carroll, Vonderstruck’s sister, who was dividing her time between greeting guests and handling sales.
Kendal Reynolds, board president of the Chadds Ford Historical Society, said she enjoyed seeing the transformation of the former office building to the kind of inviting rooms one would expect to see in a private residence. “It’s so neat to see the charm of the building displayed,” she said, pointing to a host of intricate architectural details. “With all of these windows, the natural light is great.”
Deb Hesselton of Downingtown agreed. “This place is just wonderful,” she said. “The building itself is spectacular, and the rooms are decorated beautifully.”
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