Sydney is world-famous for its amazing flea markets and open-air markets, where you can find a wonderful mix of fresh produce, antiques and music. But it’s also known for its lovely antique stores. Some of Sydney’s must-visit antique shops offer a truly special experience, taking you on a journey through time and showcasing an array of unique treasures and timeless pieces.
The city’s antique shops, such as Watertiger, Lunatiques Renewed and The Design Ark, offer meticulously curated collections that take you back in time, and they’re just waiting for you to come and explore them! From classic pieces at Mitchell Road Antique & Design Centre to contemporary finds at Composition, Sydney’s antique shops promise an enchanting journey of rare treasures and timeless elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, Sydney’s antiques scene offers a rich, immersive experience of history and craftsmanship.
Get ready to discover some truly amazing antiques, vintage decor and so much more as we explore Sydney’s finest antique shops!
1. Watertiger: Sydney’s exotic home decor haven
Just 7km from the heart of Sydney in the vibrant Precinct 75, Watertiger is an amazing emporium of exotic homewares, antique Asian furniture and eclectic decor from around the world. Kathrin Bruce founded Watertiger with over two decades of experience in the Southeast Asian fashion industry, and it shows! This treasure trove of hand-picked pieces showcases the best craftsmanship, history and soul.
Spread over 450 square metres, this dynamic showroom is constantly evolving with new arrivals, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit – you never know what you might find! There’s no doubt about it: Watertiger’s commitment to authenticity makes it a revered destination for both retail and wholesale buyers. If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry! You can still enjoy this exotic marketplace online. Their web store brings the beauty of Asia to Australia right to your doorstep!
You’ll be blown away by the store’s tranquil and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy to spend hours exploring the amazing range on offer! Watertiger is the perfect place to find that special something to make your home truly stand out, or to find the perfect gift for someone special. It’s a truly rewarding and enriching experience!
Where: 70 Robey Street, Mascot NSW 2020, Australia
When: Mascot showroom: Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 – 15:00 | Saturday: 10:00 – 14:00 or by appointment
Website: http://www.watertiger.com.au/
2. Lunatiques Renewed: Sydney’s Premier Vintage Haven
Lunatiques Renewed is an emporium where vintage charm, industrial robustness and artistic flair come together. This sprawling 3500 square metre collective is a treasure trove for vintage lovers and design enthusiasts. Housing a diverse range of goods from antique chandeliers to mid-century treasures, Lunatiques offers a dynamic shopping experience with new stock arriving daily.
Each vendor, whether a furniture maker or a collector, brings a unique touch, creating a vibrant community within its walls. The layout ensures easy navigation, with trolleys and ample parking for added convenience. Although the items are priced at the high end to reflect their quality and uniqueness, the meticulously displayed range from furniture to jewellery promises inspiration for every visitor.
Beyond retail, Lunatiques offers bespoke furniture making and serves as a resource for the creative industries, providing items for hire for film, commercials and events.
Where: 2 Kent Road, Mascot NSW 2020, Australia
When: Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm (Temporarily closed)
Website: https://www.instagram.com/lunatiquesvintage/
3. Composition: Claire Perini’s vintage design haven in Avalon Beach
The Composition showroom is located in Sydney’s picturesque Avalon Beach. It was conceptualised by Claire Perini, who was inspired to create Composition after taking a self-guided architectural tour of Europe. The showroom features a curated selection of design pieces by renowned 20th-century designers. Since its inception, Composition has grown significantly, forging partnerships locally and internationally.
Composition opened its doors in 2020 with a philosophy based on four simple but important pillars: Artefact, which is all about vintage pieces, Object, which is full of new design-oriented products, Interiors, which is all about architectural solutions, and Print, which is home to rare books and lithographic art. The showroom is a wonderful blend of Scandinavian and Western European classics with elements inspired by ancient history, creating a dynamic space for design enthusiasts.
Composition works with specialists across Australia and high-end publications, and serves as a venue for events and product launches. Perini has big plans to expand Composition internationally, offering a more immersive design experience while continuing to work with renowned Australian artisans. The showroom also offers interior design consultancy services, transforming spaces with Perini’s expert eye.
Where: 45a Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach NSW 2107, Australia
When: Monday – Friday: 09:30 – 17:00 | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00 | Interior design avail by appointment
Website: https://compositionstudio.com/
4. The Design Ark: Sydney’s treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts
Nestled in the bustling heart of Sydney, The Design Ark is an eclectic haven for those with a love of the unique and beautiful. The 500 square metre showroom is a curated collection of mid-century modern, vintage, retro and industrial interiors. Each piece is thoughtfully repurposed, embracing sustainability while offering unparalleled style.
With resident dealers like Greenies Gold and From The Boneyard, variety is the spice of life. Greenies Gold mixes retro, antique and contemporary, while From The Boneyard specialises in mid-century modern. The Design Ark’s commitment to quality shines through in its meticulously restored and upcycled furniture, making it a must-visit destination for design lovers.
Their monthly newsletter keeps design lovers up to date with the latest ideas, informative articles and stock arrivals. Nick, aka The Design Ark, ensures that new stock arrives on a weekly basis, adding his own curated selection to the mix. Transforming industrial items into reimagined pieces for home and commercial use is a hallmark of their creativity.
Where: 17 Foster St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
When: Monday to Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Website: https://www.thedesignark.com.au/
5. Mitchell Road Antiques & Design Centre: Sydney’s ultimate treasure trove
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, look no further than the Mitchell Road Antique & Design Centre in Alexandria, Sydney. This wonderful place transforms weekend afternoons into captivating treasure hunts, and it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon with friends or family. This huge 2,400-square-metre warehouse is a real treasure trove for vintage lovers! It’s packed with 70 different traders selling a wonderful mix of vintage, industrial, rustic and antique items. This place has a fascinating history. It used to be an auction house, and it still attracts all kinds of people, from casual browsers to professionals. You’ll find interior designers and retro furniture enthusiasts alike!
The real charm of this place is in the amazing variety of stalls, each one independently run and full of unique finds. You’ll find everything from Japanese toy robots to French provincial toilets! The lovely, welcoming atmosphere is created by the friendly, knowledgeable stallholders, many of whom have decades of experience. They love sharing stories and insights about their wares. There’s something for everyone at the centre! You’ll find mid-century modern, lighting, homewares, fashion, toys and jewellery, so every visit is a new discovery.
The Centre is well-known for its excellent quality and ever-changing stock. It’s a real hub for collectors, set designers and prop sourcing professionals, who all love to come and find those high-value investments and charming little finds! If you want to beat the crowds and snap up the best pieces, a weekday morning visit is the perfect idea!
Where: 17 Bourke Road, Alexandria, NSW, 2015, Australia
When: Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 6:00pm
Website: https://www.mitchellroad.com.au/
If you’re looking for the best antique shops and flea markets in Sydney, we’ve got just the place for you! Head over to fleamapket.com for an in-depth tour of the Emerald City.