Downtown Bastrop is set for a new retail concept as longtime home‑decor and gift shop Black & White Interiors prepares to transition its storefront at 1015 Main Street into a curated antique vendor co‑op. Owner Desiree Laux told Community Impact that the current retail model has become unsustainable due to persistently low sales.
Financial pressures prompt change
“Sales are almost nothing, and I am using personal funds to support the business, and I can’t do it any longer,” Laux said. She launched a liquidation sale on October 15, discounting most merchandise, including holiday inventory, in an effort to move remaining stock. Previous attempts to clear inventory through sales generated little response, prompting Laux to consider a new direction for the space.
Plan for an antique vendor co‑op
Once the liquidation inventory is sold, Laux intends to convert the storefront into a curated antique vendor co‑op. The co‑op will feature individual vendors who rent booths or display spaces to sell high‑quality, curated antiques. Laux said there is no firm opening date for the new concept because the timeline depends on how quickly the remaining inventory sells.
Potential vendors can reach out online or in person for availability and pricing. Laux noted that customers have frequently requested an antique store in the downtown area, indicating community interest in the proposed co‑op.
Impact on downtown Bastrop
The shift from a single‑owner home‑decor shop to a multi‑vendor antique co‑op could bring new foot traffic and variety to Main Street. By offering a range of antique items under one roof, the co‑op aims to attract both collectors and casual shoppers, supporting the broader goal of revitalizing downtown Bastrop’s retail corridor.
Local business owners and residents who value the historic character of Bastrop’s downtown may view the co‑op as a positive addition, aligning with the city’s emphasis on preserving its small‑town charm while encouraging entrepreneurial opportunities.
Next steps
Laux will continue the liquidation sale until inventory is cleared, after which she will begin the build‑out and vendor recruitment process. She encourages interested parties to contact her directly for more information about booth rentals and pricing.
The transformation of Black & White Interiors reflects a broader trend of small businesses adapting to changing market conditions by exploring collaborative retail models. As the co‑op takes shape, it will add another layer of choice for shoppers seeking unique, high‑quality antiques in Bastrop.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
