Destination Antiques at Michael Duffy’s Parnell St
Written by Antique’s Dealer Michael Duffy has been providing customers and film/TV companies with antiques and one of a kind products for the past 40 years.
Located at the lower end of Parnell St, just metres away from Capel St, this store is a world of history just waiting to be explored. Walking into the store, you are greeted with generations of artifacts that bring out the magpie in you! If you had the time, you could actually spend hours searching through it all – making it a very interesting store.
Speaking to the owner Michael Duffy, he reveals it was his father who got him hooked on all things antique. “My Dad sold antiques on Ormond Quay in the 40s – John Duffy. I worked part time and became really interested in it.”
Wanting to continue on the work his father introduced him to, he opened up Michael Duffy’s Antique Dealers in 1962 on Parnell Street. The original building was knocked down and rebuilt in 1994 to be the store it is today.
A sketch of the building before it was rebuilt to it’s modern exterior today
#UniquetoDublin
When it comes to unique businesses in Dublin, this antiques dealers is definitely one that stands out. Asked what makes his business unique, he said it’s the “personal touch” and the fact that they don’t “push sales” on people. “When you come in, we know it’s going to be a personalised purchase… We actually give you 30 days to make up your mind!”
“I really have a passion for the furniture and items we sell… I like meeting people and especially people with the same passion about antiques that I have. It gets me out of bed in the mornings!” It’s not only the every day customer walking through the door, Michael would also get people coming in looking for props for film and TV shows. Some of the stock features in TV shows like Penny Dreadful and Little Women.
Another aspect he likes about his job is the great sense of community that businesses surrounding him have made. “There is a really nice community in this area… Businesses help each other out,” he said.
Michael Duffy in his antiques store on Parnell St surrounded by some very interesting pieces
Destination Antiques
Speaking about his store, he said it’s a destination stop that people come to when they want to browse and enjoy the atmosphere – they see very unique pieces all the time here. From snuff boxes to great book cases, dining room tables to teapots – there really is a treasure trove of things to buy. Michael’s brother John is also a big part of the business, selling modern and period fireplaces in the store. “There is always some really beautiful fireplaces on display to be seen” Michael adds.
According to Michael, it’s a great time to buy antiques as it’s “never been so reasonable”. If you’re thinking about investing in an antique, or would even like Michael to take a look at something you may have, drop by and take a look for yourself, sure it would be rude not to!
While you are visiting Michael Duffy’s hunger may strike and there’s some great food places just around the corner on Capel St – read more here
