According to Pat Campbell, the new owner and founder of Architectural Old House Parts, their inventory changes all the time—but you can count on finding very well-organized displays of antique eave supports, porcelain enamel sinks from the 1930s, both ornate and simple fireplace mantels, tons of doors, original brass fittings, turn-of-the-century tubs and clawfoot accessories, ironwork garden gates and lots of moldings and railings. Prices range from $9.00 for a porcelain knob to $250.00 for a substantial brass lock and key. Victorian doors can go for as low $95.00, and a 1950s glass lampshade for $25.00. Very reasonable prices for these unique items.

A great aspect of this shop is that most of what is displayed is actually taken from nearby areas, within a 50-mile or so radius. These house parts were taken from soon-to-be-demolished old homes or from partially demolished homes and storefronts. Pat says that contractors often arrive at his back door, stopping on their way to the landfill to drop off items they think he would be interested in purchasing.

Something nice to know: You can be eco-friendly and not even know it. Just re-use, re-paint, re-finish something from another era and you instantly have a great piece of furniture/lamp/archway to love and enjoy and pass along to the next generation.

I have, in the past, antiqued a few tables, a lamp and even an old chair. This takes lots of patience, which I am sorely lacking. I’ve always admired several of my friends who excel at it. It takes talent and time to see past a brittle piece of furniture and imagine what it could become. Hmmm, there is the beginning of another blog post, I think.

You don’t have to leave the comfort of your cozy couch to get what you need. There are a plethora of websites that cater to lovers of the show This Old House. Here are some websites that are fun, educational and worth a click-through:

OldHouseParts.net: Located in Front Royal, this is a personal favorite of mine—obviously. For Virginians, this is a must-stop for obtaining old pieces and elements for your next renovation project. Check it out.

MyKnobs.com: My friend Adrienne pointed me to this interesting website. I never knew the planet had so many historical knob designs. You’ll want to re-knob all of your cabinets, then re-knob again, just because you can. This site specializes in wonderful reproductions of vintage designs, and they have a storefront in Carle Place, New York.