The Shop Iowa City, set to open in the former University Camera location at 4 S. Dubuque St. later this month, is all about bringing the past to life again.

 

Not only are co-owners Jessica Meyer, Kate Dreyer and Kay Boyer gutting the longtime photo and camera shop — exposing original hardwood floors and removing soffits and ceiling tile to feature the original white tin ceiling — they plan to use the space to showcase vintage, restored and repurposed furniture and home decor.

 

“We try to offer the coolest things we can find,” Meyer said, adding the Shop would also sell some new items and a limited inventory of clothing.

 

Billing itself as “a thoughtfully curated shop put together by three women-owned businesses under one roof,” Meyer said much of the store’s stock will come from picking expeditions, property auctions and estate sales.

 

“Our target customer is trendy, someone who wants those unique items for their home,” she said. “These will be one-of-a-kind pieces, not cookie cutter items from big box stores.”

 

For several years, Dreyer and Boyer have sold their pieces at the Shop in Kalona, where they are also co-owners. Meyer, who sells items through her independent business Good Folk Trading Co., says her latest obsession is working with reclaimed wood and old barn board, turning it into art, small furniture items and other goods.

 

“All three of us had a dream to be in Iowa City, and we’ve already had such a great response,” she said, adding that although the co-owners considered a pop-up shop on the Iowa City Ped Mall, there was no question where they wanted to be when the former University Camera went up for rent. “It’s such a cute area and a great space, we wanted to make it happen. And we think this is the best way to make it happen.”