Unveiling the Charms of Antiques: A Local Enthusiast's Passion for Collectibles

Created by Church Street community members and friends - Sally, Najaat, Margaret, Maureen, Vitalia, Ellie, Marie, Kaya

Kaya's Antique Odyssey

Every community has its hidden gems, stories that resonate with the heart and soul of its residents. In the heart of Church Street, one such remarkable tale unfolds, centred around a cherished community member, Kaya, whose life took an enchanting turn inspired by the antique shops that grace the streets of this historic locale.

A Journey Ignited by Curiosity

From Curiosity to Passion: Kaya's Antique Affair

In the midst of Church Street's bustling tapestry, Kaya's story began with a simple yet irresistible attraction to the captivating displays adorning the windows of local antique shops. Residing within a stone's throw from the iconic Alfie's Antique Market and the surrounding antiquarian boutiques, Kaya's daily encounters with these historical treasures proved inescapable. It was this proximity that kindled his curiosity, transforming admiration into a deep-seated interest that, over time, blossomed into an all-encompassing passion.

An Amateur's Path to Restoration

From Amateur to Aficionado: Kaya's Antique Artistry

Today, Kaya proudly identifies as an "amateur antique restorer and dealer," weaving his newfound love for antiques into the fabric of his life. Through this interview, he graciously shares his experiences, offering the community a glimpse into his remarkable journey. Kaya's foray into the world of antiques stands as a testament to the profound influence a community can have on an individual's path, proving that even the most unexpected passions can take root and flourish when nurtured by the unique charm of a local environment.

Interview with Kaya

Church Street Community: How did you get interested in restoring antiques and collectables? How did it start?

Kaya: I’ve always been interested via television shows from years gone by, like the Antiques Road Show. When I got to Church Street I couldn’t resist the challenge.

Church Street Community: How do you know which antique shop to choose and whether the price is right?

Kaya: Church Street has dealers at both ends of the market, you just have to go and ask each one what type of dealer they are.

Trade dealers offer lots of flexibility and information and are very helpful. The high end brigade tend to stick to their guns and are stubborn on price. If you know the true value of the item you are interested in, but it needs repairs or there is an extra cost involved to make the item useful, then these costs also need to be considered. Once this has been considered set your maximum price and stick to it. Be prepared to walk away if need be.

If you know nothing about antiques it is easy to let your heart rule your head and make the wrong decisions.

Church Street Community: Where did you learn the skills to restore?

Kaya: I go online and research how to repair things, and I see if my skills are within the remit. But mostly by watching Salvage Hunters on Quest.

Church Street Community: Which era of antiques intrigues you the most and why?

Kaya: Art Deco is the style I love more than any other. This was before I started on this journey - from a very long time ago I had an eye for Art Deco. It is so distinguishable and I can spot it a mile off.

Church Street Community: What quirky features do you look out for in antique furniture? Have you ever discovered a quirky feature that shocked or surprised you?

Kaya: Red Bull gives you wings, even though that’s not to my style, if you see a can that has them, they are collectable. It’s a matter of taste, sometimes an idea of quirkiness maybe an eyesore to someone else.

Church Street Community: Have you been to Portobello Market or do you prefer Church Street?

Kaya: I love Portobello Road. I've been close to it since a small child. Whilst the choice is great, it’s more on the commercial end of the market and bargains are very hard to find. However, overall I have no preference for either, I'd walk into any antique shop, and that's the truth.

It's taken me the best part of the year to get around to all the dealers in Church Street. I feel over time many will get to know me better and may be able to consider negotiating for folk who visit regularly.

Church Street Community: What would you say is an antique in your view?

Kaya: An antique is a perception of value of something that is rare, maybe rare, or is a collectable now.

Church Street Community: Why antiques, why not post-modern furniture?

Kaya: I look for style, modern style is pricey, certain contemporary pieces are timeless - I could have the same furniture in 50 years and it still wouldn't look out of place.

Church Street Community: Describe what your home looks like. Do you feature antique pieces in your personal space? What are the key pieces, why those?

Kaya: I recently moved to a new address and it is a permanent home. While considering how I should furnish it, I realised that most people are very generic, they buy matching-everything and coordinate it to look the same. I wanted something different. I was invited to buy items from a bespoke Bed and Breakfast hotel in London and was instantly inspired.

At the moment my home is still in working progress. I want every part to look different, whilst offering practicability and comfort. It must be pleasing to my eye, so I wouldn't have a skull as a lamp, for example. My most treasured item is an Edwardian mirror, I wouldn't refurb it because the character would be lost. Plus I'm looking for an eclectic mix, so my eyes are continually engaged with different and interesting items.

Church Street Community: What's your best buy so far, your personal favourite?

Kaya: I haven't bought my personal favourite yet. I'll know when I get there.

Church Street Community: What's was your biggest challenge in learning to restore antiques? Did you make a mess of an item? How did you fix it?

Kaya: I don't make a mess. If I can’t fix it, I hand it to a professional who can - I subcontract it.

Church Street Community: Do you have a fear of becoming a hoarder?

Kaya: I don’t think I'll be featured on TV on one of those hoarder programs. But seriously, no, the items I can't use I'll swap for ones that I can.

Church Street Community: If you could own any antique item sold at Alfie’s Antique Market or the surrounding antique shops, what would you own?

Kaya: The Globe chair in Alfies. James Worrall, an antique shop on the corner of Lisson Grove and Church Street, they have a Syrian chest of draws with mother of pearl inlay. I wouldn’t mind owning that also.

Church Street Community: Would you ever go onto Antiques Road Show?

Kaya: If they paid me a million...just kidding! It really is not my bag. Plus I wouldn't like the exposure on TV.

Church Street Community: Now a fun question to tap into your imagination: The Church Street area is to be refreshed with new installations of street furniture. You are the designer. What would you do to Church Street area?

Kaya: Old fashioned cast iron benches with ergonomic designs, old style gas street lamps, oversized cobble stones, pavement edges sprayed with gold...that's it, job done.

Church Street Community: If you could give one piece of advice or a tip to a young person who wants to learn how to restore a piece of furniture on a budget, what would you say to them?

Kaya: Start with projects that are simple and easy. Go on and watch loads of YouTube videos. The information is very easy to find. Surprisingly, repair kits are at quite a low cost. Source your items on freecycle.org.