Philly AIDS Thrift has cool antiques without the fuss

If an antiques show is a little too formal or daunting for you, but you’re still itching for some spring redecorating, you might want to swing by Philly AIDS Thrift, 710 S. Fifth St.

Besides being a treasure trove of second-hand fashions and electronics, the nonprofit shop is also a place to find inexpensive furnishings and knick-knacks. It also helps that the staff is pleasant, friendly and knowledgeable of the ever-shifting inventory. And, an added bonus: The profits from the store get donated to local organizations that fight HIV/AIDS.

Surprisingly enough, we were told that antiques don’t move as quickly as other items, especially when it comes to wares like shelves and dressers. Cheap, second-hand IKEA furniture flies out of the doors of the store while somewhat pricier and older antique furniture tends to stick around for a while, almost guaranteeing that there will be something of interest to catch the eye of a shopper looking for something more classic.

Besides inexpensive bookshelves and other furnishings, the staff at PAT said other hot items include retro couches from the 1960s-’80s. When we visited, there was a bright red plush couch that we are sure probably isn’t going to be there by the time this story hits the paper. We also saw a supremely funky wooden chair with red vinyl cushions. And the store frequently receives donations of pianos — which are quick to get back out the door.

We’re suckers for retro and kitschy decor, so we were drawn to the shop’s sizable wall of bric-a-brac. There were super-classy items like complete sets of pre-1970s dishes and crockery. We also spotted an old gigantic Philo radio — which we hope someone buys to freak out people who have known nothing but CDs and iPods.

But that’s just our tastes. Do yourself a favor and visit Philly AIDS Thrift so you can start dragging home your own unique decor and personal conversation pieces.

The prices for many of the home-decor antiques range from about $50 to several hundred dollars but the staff cautioned that customers shouldn’t afraid to haggle for deals on items that have been in the store for some time.

For more information, visit www.phillyaidssthrift.com.

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