In the Press

Steven-Thomas Antiques included in the 10th Annual Orange County People's Choice Edition

The name of this business is somewhat of a misnomer. Sure, antiques are for sale there, but the presentation is that of a high-toned furniture store.

Some 30 vignettes of living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and more feature fully restored antique furniture combined with old and new decorating accessories.

"It's really more like a design center than an antique shop," said Tom Silk, who opened the store in 1981 with partner Steven Shedd. "It's very elegant, and our prices are really affordable."

The business includes a workshop where 25 employees focus on refinishing, polishing, repairing and restoring antique furniture pieces that are sold in the shop.

Customers can also bring in their own pieces for upholstering, woodwork, customization, repair and restoration.

Another unusual aspect of Steven-Thomas Antiques is its trade-up policy. If you buy a piece of antique furniture there and in three years decide you want something better, the store will offer you 90 percent trade-up value on a piece of the same category and function.