Bananas Mobiliar 1930–1980 sits at Kettenbrückengasse 15 in Vienna's 5th district, a short walk from the Naschmarkt. This is a curated antique and vintage shop, not a flea market stall or general second-hand browse. The stock spans six decades — from 1930s craftsmanship through the full arc of mid-century modernism to the earthy tones of the late 1970s — and every piece is selected with a collector's eye.
The furniture anchors the space. Scandinavian sideboards, Italian mid-century bar carts, walnut desks, and lounge chairs occupy the floor, with the occasional design-significant chair — a peacock-rattan piece from Italy or a 1950s rocker — acting as an unexpected focal point. Most items are originals. Where restoration has happened, it respects the material's age rather than erasing it.
Lighting fills the room above and between the furniture. Brass and steel lamps, geometric pendants, and ornate ceiling pieces catch whatever light the space allows. Smaller objects claim whatever surfaces remain: sterling silver brooches, mid-century Scandinavian jewellery, vintage accessories, and decorative curiosities pressed into corners. The effect is dense but intentional — close to a collector's private study than a showroom floor.
The atmosphere rewards slow visitors. Old wood, metal with patina, and the faint must of genuinely aged objects all register before you reach the first piece. Nothing is arranged for a quick scan. A mirror might prompt a pause; a lamp might change a room plan entirely. That unhurried quality is part of what separates Bananas from shops with faster turnover.
Stock rotates regularly, and repeat visitors find something new each time. Pricing reflects condition and rarity: smaller decorative pieces and accessories are the more accessible entry point, while furniture, designer chairs, and rare lamps carry a premium that matches their provenance. That feel of considered investment — rather than impulse buying — suits the shop's overall register.
The shop opens Tuesday through Friday from 1 pm to 6 pm, and on Saturdays from 11 am to 4 pm. It stays closed on Sundays and Mondays. Those afternoon weekday hours suit a deliberate visit rather than a passing detour, though Saturday mornings pair naturally with a Naschmarkt trip nearby. The shop works best for mid-century design enthusiasts, serious collectors, interior stylists, and anyone hunting originals rather than reproductions.
Getting there is straightforward. Kettenbrückengasse station — served by U4 metro and night bus N60 — sits approximately 125 metres away. Bus lines 59A and N71 stop at Schönbrunner Straße/Kettenbrückengasse, roughly 100 metres from the shop. For visitors coming from further south, tram line 1, light rail WLB, and night bus N62 all serve Paulanergasse, around 500 metres away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is Bananas Mobiliar open, and are there good times to combine a visit with nearby attractions?
A: The shop opens Tuesday to Friday from 1 pm to 6 pm, and Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. It is closed Sunday and Monday. Saturday morning pairs naturally with a trip to the Naschmarkt, which is right on the doorstep.
Q: Is this a curated shop or more of a general second-hand browse?
A: Bananas is a curated permanent antique shop. Every piece is selected — mostly originals spanning 1930 to 1980 — with a collector's eye. Restorations, where they occur, respect the material's age rather than erasing it. It is not a flea market stall or a general second-hand store.
Q: What kinds of pieces are typically in stock?
A: The core stock is furniture and lighting: Scandinavian sideboards, Italian mid-century bar carts, walnut desks, lounge chairs, brass and steel lamps, and ceiling fixtures. Between the larger pieces you'll find sterling silver brooches, mid-century Scandinavian jewellery, vintage accessories, and decorative objects. Stock rotates regularly, so repeat visits tend to surface something new.
Q: What is the pricing register — is it accessible or mainly for serious collectors?
A: Both ends of the market are represented. Smaller decorative pieces, accessories, and jewellery are the more accessible entry point. Furniture, designer chairs, and rare lamps carry a premium that reflects condition and provenance. The overall feel is considered investment rather than impulse buying.
Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Kettenbrückengasse U4 metro station is roughly 125 metres away. Bus lines 59A and N71 stop at Schönbrunner Straße/Kettenbrückengasse, about 100 metres from the shop. Night bus N60 also serves Kettenbrückengasse for evening travel.
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