The Mountain Brook Antique Store Locals Love

If you’ve ever strolled the quaint streets of English Village, you’ve probably seen the charming, ivy-lined building that holds hundreds of unique, hand-selected antique pieces. For more than 20 years, Ashford Hill for Henhouse Antiques has been well-known for supplying the Birmingham community with beautiful antique home decor. Owners Barbara Ashford and Judy Hill have always strived to make Henhouse a highly curated and desirable destination, and in an effort to bring a fresh perspective to their shop, their daughters Laura Ashford Gessert, Libby Hill McGowan and Jamie Hill eventually joined the business as well, making it a true family affair.

Upon entering Henhouse, along with a friendly smile and an eager-to-assist associate, you’ll find yourself immersed in a captivating collection of items. You’ll be transported to another era as you peruse decor items ranging from traditional to the unexpected, with an ever-changing and evolving inventory — buffet and commode tables, chairs, desks, lamps, mirrors and more. “The inspiration behind Henhouse was a common love for antiques,” explains Laura. “Barbara has an interior design degree, and Judy has a graphic design degree. They wanted to come together for a fresh approach to an antique shop.”

A fresh approach, indeed. From marrying English and French concepts to finding a balance between heirlooms and modern treasures, the creative minds behind Henhouse work tirelessly to continually change and evolve what their shop offers. “We receive shipments two to three times a year from England, and we always go to England to buy,” says Laura. However, she says they have purchased their last two shipments virtually due to the pandemic. With pieces ranging from the 18th century to the 21st, curating a collection of incredible antiques never ends for the women of Henhouse.

In addition to the impressive selection of furniture, clocks, art and more, Henhouse is also home to The Hill Collection, an impressive compilation of vintage European jewelry curated by owner Jamie Hill. The collection includes one-of-a-kind pieces dating back to the Georgian era — everything from brooches, pins and hair accessories to lockets, rings, bracelets and more. Customers can also shop Henhouse’s collection of vintage costumes and handmade jewelry created by designers from around the globe.

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Whether you’re new to the antique-hunting game or a seasoned professional, the team at Henhouse is ready to show you just how intriguing it is to adorn your home with their collection of timeless antiques. “Our friendly staff, beautiful European antiques, and mixture of styles and vignettes can give you an idea of how to mix antiques in a new and fresh way,” says Laura. When you enter Henhouse, you’ll understand just how easy it is to fall in love with these breathtaking designers and their pieces.

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Henhouse Antiques is, without a doubt, a Magic City treasure in and of itself. “Birmingham is full of wonderful designers who we have been blessed to work with as well as the public,” Laura says. “We love our customers. People love the atmosphere in the shop, and it makes them feel good just to come in.”

Visit the ladies of Henhouse Antiques in English Village at 1900 Cahaba Road, Birmingham, AL 35223. Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To place an order or simply get in touch with the team, call (205) 918-0505, email [email protected] or visit henhouseantiques.com.

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