In Love With Paramour Bungalow

‘Tis the season of retail therapy and festive appearances, and Evanstonians have ample reason to rejoice. Paramour Bungalow opened this past June 1 (812 Dempster Street) and is already a destination for unique gifts and charming decor pieces. The array of merchandise is astounding and fresh, everything one needs to add a touch of creativity and character to any room.  Visual treats abound, especially with how the merchandise is presented in ways that are artful and clever.  Check out the rows of floor to ceiling pure white children’s chairs used as shelves for amazing knotted pillows and chaise throws. Rows of cards playfully displayed on shelves and atop the fireplace mantel balance out larger items like upholstered furniture. I loved how the owners found items from yesteryear (remember slide carousels, anyone?) now retrofitted into fun mirrors, one of many such creative choices.  This is a happy store, one you want to linger in and explore.

Go soon and come armed with a list of people for whom you need to purchase gifts. If you’ve finished your shopping early, treat yourself. There is something for just about everyone at Paramour Bungalow.  Open 11 AM to 6 PM Tuesday through Saturday. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Close to the Dempster Street stop on the Purple Line with ample street parking nearby.

Eureka!

Eureka! Antiques and Collectibles was one of the first stores I explored in Evanston.  I love this place–it is a treasure trove of memorabilia and interesting items.  The charming and irrepressibly cheery owner, Bindy Bitterman, describes her store as one of the “last of the Mom and Pop antique stores” in the Evanston area.

Under Bitterman’s direction, Eureka! Antiques and Collectibles specializes in historical documents and ephemera about Chicago, with a special emphasis on both Chicago World’s Fairs (1893 and 1933), as well as vintage postcards, paper dolls, Valentines and blotters.  (Ephemera is any object made to be useful for a brief period, such as tickets, invitations or pamphlets.) Well-regarded in her field, Bitterman is sought out by librarians, archivists and serious collectors who respect the breadth of her knowledge.  Vintage posters and photographs, toys and other items pack this tiny store.  Other goodies to pique your fancy include advertising and political memorabilia, costume jewelry, and historical documents.  If you are looking for unusual or one-of-a-kind gifts, Eureka! Antiques and Collectibles is worth a visit.

Location: 705 Washington Street, Evanston 60202.  A block away from the CTA Main Street (Purple) and Metra (UP/NL) Main Street stops.

Telephone: 847-869-9090.  Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.  Closed Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays.