Membership Directory
|
|
Mullin-Jones Antiquities
Patrice Mullin
525 S. Main St., (Rte. 7)
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Phone: 413.528.4871
|
“I have sold to many French people – and that says I am on the right track,” says Patrice Mullin, who began importing French antiques for her shop in 1986.
“I also work with a handful of topnotch designers,” she adds, “one of whom just cleaned me out of special objects to decorate Canyon Ranch. I suspect he was looking for a slightly worn, euro look, which can be interpreted as both chic and conservative, depending.”
Mullin-Jones Antiquities was featured in Architectural Digest “Discoveries by Designers” column in 2005.
She stresses that her unique mix of French, is not as apt to appeal to the mass-market. “It represents 20 years of collecting and evolving – and unless someone has either spent time in France, or simply adores a timeless decorating style with touches of romance and whimsy, counterbalanced with correctness, it is lost on the average consumer.”
By this she says, she “interprets” a wide-range of French – from country (her mainstay) to formal, to moderne, with an eclectic eye for “accoutrements.” “I scramble it all up, like a true French person’s house.” She is meticulous about descriptions, providing a history of each object on the tag. Her palette often favors bold color; a favorite item at the moment being a bright pink jelly cupboard (confiturier.)
She is becoming known for “attractive, calming paintings” (regional landscapes). Her favorite item to buy – comfy, sensually carved, upholstered armchairs. “I can’t say no to a classic, and if it has old fabric on it, I will shampoo it 3 times, just to salvage the old textile.”
"French Country Kitchens," a 2008 release, authored by Linda Dannenberg, of the original series of Pierre Deux books, lists Mullin-Jones as one of (only) four sources for French antiques in the USA. The lavish book is an inspiration for those seeking authentic French antiques; in it she says, "one of my favorite shops in the Berkshires." (Ms. Dannenberg's partnership with the two Pierre's, "ignited America's love for all things French Country.")
Lastly, she says she views her shop as “very affordable, considering what I sell – it is good value. I have furnished many starter homes for young couples. On the other hand, I just sold a very modern piece (c.1930s) to a mature grand-dame from Park Ave.”
The shop is open most days except for Tuesdays, generally 11-5. She recommends calling ahead. “Usually I am here 6 days a week, but I might have to go to France or an estate sale (lately she shops for French in this country.) She does not have a website, but call to request photos by e-mail.
Mullin-Jones is easy to get to. Located on Great Barrington’s Route 7, six houses south of “the big stone castle” on Main St. The shop is tucked away, down a landscaped drive, with numerous flower gardens.
Open most days, generally 11-5, except Tuesday.
Number
21 on the Member Map
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
