Our Hopeful Home: garden oasis

Shopping is definitely one of my favorite pastimes. Usually it's for thrifty, vintage finds. The fun's in the hunt, I always say! This summer we've been spending some time on the southwestern coast of Michigan, and it's been nice to explore the region, especially from a shopping standpoint. Last weekend we drove up the coast and checked out the coastal town of South Haven. What a cute little town! Check out this storefront. Each shot below shows one side of the front door.

This is actually two stores in one that have combined together in the old, historic Merson's Building on Phoenix Street. Renaissance is on the ground floor. They have a funky, eclectic mix of clothes, jewelry, candles, perfumes and greeting cards. Papyrus was on the second floor, filled with funky home decor, candles, books and just plain cool stuff. But out back is where I was wowed.

They have a little haven of their own outside in the back of the store. It looks like the perfect place to sit with a cool drink and put those weary feet up after a long day of shopping.

The building is an old beauty, and I love what they've done with it, both inside and out. Look at the color of the trim and back door. I love it! And look how big those windows are!

Sorry for the bad picture quality, I took these with my iPhone.

I love the serenity it provides even amidst the urban surroundings. Check out the koi pond and the overall garden-like setting.

Then, back inside, the steps are painted in such a whimsical way, leading you upstairs to Papyrus, a store I liked even better!

Take a peek.

Isn't it grand?

I especially loved the fuchsia painted aluminum chair with the hide-and-go-seek fuchsia bunny!

And check out this bed.

I wanted to buy so many things, but it wasn't in the budget!

I love the history, as well as the eclectic vibe. Can't wait to visit there again!

South Haven also has some really great antique places I hope to be able to share with you soon. (Fingers crossed that there are some more shopping trips in my future!)

So if you're ever in South Haven, MI make sure and stop by Renaissance and Papyrus on 507 Phoenix Street. You'll be glad you did.

Do you have any favorite summer shopping haunts?

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Xoxo