Located in Collingwood, Melbourne, Grandfather's Axe is not just a shop; it's a gateway to the exquisite world of mid-century furniture, brought straight from the heart of Europe to Australia's design-savvy population. Founded by Ed Klein in 2009, this beloved establishment has carved out a niche for those who appreciate the beauty and functionality of vintage design. With roots dating back to Klein's early days in Northcote, Grandfather's Axe has become Australia's premier destination for authentic mid-century modern furniture.
Nestled in the vibrant streets of Collingwood, the showroom is a testament to Ed Klein's vision of making exceptional design accessible to all. Sourcing pieces from across Australia, Denmark, Scandinavia and Europe, Grandfather's Axe stands at the confluence of accessibility and sustainability. The curated collection includes original designs by iconic figures such as Hans Olsen, Børge Mogensen and Hans Wegner, alongside an impressive selection of locally sourced items. Each piece in the collection, from dining chairs to sideboards, pays homage to the minimalist functionality of Danish design and the Scandinavian appreciation of simple, clean lines.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated backroom workshop breathes new life into these timeless pieces, ensuring that the restoration process honours the original designer's work. This commitment extends to the homeware, ceramics and gifts that adorn the showroom, each selected to complement the elegant simplicity of the furniture.
The journey of Grandfather's Axe is as much about the people as it is about the furniture. Ed Klein, along with his wife Tracey Grimson, who he met when she was a customer in Northcote, and their team of 10, work tirelessly to source and sell these Scandinavian and local mid-century treasures. Some pieces arrive in near-perfect condition, while others are lovingly restored or reupholstered to the store's high standards, always respecting the designer's original vision.
The name "Grandfather's Axe" reflects a philosophy that Ed Klein stumbled upon even before the store was founded. It speaks to the continuity of design and function across generations, where parts may change but the essence remains. This ethos underpins not only the business model, but also Ed's commitment to sustainability. By restoring 60-year-old design pieces, Grandfather's Axe helps to reduce waste, extend the life of beautifully crafted furniture and spread the energy used in its original production over many more decades.
Now well into its second decade, Grandfather's Axe recently made a significant move to a new showroom on Smith Street in Collingwood, marking a new chapter in its journey to bring the best of vintage furniture to Australian homes. The showroom and its online presence offer a range of dining chairs, sofas, daybeds, tables, desks, lighting, housewares, books and storage items, with a special section for discounted pieces. The aim is to provide statement pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing and functional, but also sustainable and a good investment.
Grandfather's Axe is a haven for anyone looking to add character, history and sustainability to their home. Whether in person or online, customers can expect competitive prices, exceptional quality and a piece of design history that will tell its story for generations to come.
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