Retrospecto

(© Saskia Vanderstichele)

Hidden treasures, we love to discover them. And a stroll around the commercial shopping area of Bascule in Ukkel/Uccle led us to Retrospecto, a small vintage shop packed with affordable goodies from the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. The shop opened about a year ago, as owners Barbara and her husband wanted to share their passion for vintage with the neighbourhood. They live in the Bascule area and thought a furniture and object shop would be a welcome addition to the existing mix of grocery stores, hairdressers, and beauty shops. The absence of competing vintage shops also means prices are kept more than affordable, which – besides discovering Retrospecto in the first place – is a nice surprise! There are old vinyl records with anything from Frank Sinatra to French chanson (prices start at 4 euro). Don’t worry if you haven’t got a record player, because you can buy some of them as well. The handy magazine racks start at 20 euro and come in different materials: from see-through plexi to metal, with or without small table and ashtray. The bar cart would be a great match for Mad Men lovers, and there are even crystal glasses and carafes to complete the look. We’re sure the stained glass punch bowl and cups would be another great asset to any party. Ladies looking for a make-up table are in luck too, there are some nice ones available (priced around 200 euro). Old frames, mirrors, and suitcases are sold as well, and those after accessories can browse the belts, jewellery, and handbag section for more treasures. In terms of big(ger) furniture, there isn’t much on sale – mainly due to a lack of space. But there are small tables, stools, an office desk, and a stunning set of interconnected theatre chairs that used to belong to an old Brussels school, at the front of the shop. And if you’re looking for something in particular, Barbara will help you find it.

RETROSPECTO ●●●
rue Émile Clausstraat 56, Ukkel/Uccle, 0499-31.06.60, www.retrospecto.be, di/ma/Tu > za/sa/Sa 12 > 18.30