Upstairs Downstairs Home — Local services in Boston

This review is not about the products Upstairs Downstairs sells, but rather about the staff and how they treat people.

I was walking by with my dog and noticed some chairs outside the storefront. There were no signs on them indicating they were for customers only, so I sat for a moment to adjust my dog’s leash. Not long after, someone from the store came out and rudely told me the chairs were for customers. The tone and attitude were completely uncalled for—no kindness, no courtesy, just an unnecessarily aggressive approach.

If these chairs are truly for customers, then perhaps put up a sign instead of placing them out on a public sidewalk where anyone might assume they’re free to use. What’s more, after I left, I noticed others sitting in the same chairs, and the staff just brought them inside rather than speaking to them. So the treatment clearly isn’t consistent.

It’s not hard to be kind or professional. Maybe this can be a reminder to the staff that common courtesy and respect go a long way. Not everyone who pauses in front of your store...

Upstairs, Downstairs is a fine shop on Charles Street beholding a unique assortment of objects not to miss while in Boston. I have been a shopper at UD for 3 years and have picked up great trinkets and memories along the way. At my last visit, I found the photographed item as a letter opener. I was ecstatic that a big "hunt" of mine was found. After trial, this knife did not work as a letter opener nor soft cheese knife. On my returning visit to UD, admittedly months later, I had hoped staff to be open to accomodate an exchange of store goods to equal value (I had original receipt). I spoke to the owner and there was no accordance to be had. Upstairs Downstairs is strictly a Final Sale policy shop, so shoppers beware! I don't envision a return to 69 Charles...

This is a wonderful gem of a place. Their collection is always so interesting, and it seems they have a bit of everything! I have bought three things here. One was an absolutely beautiful Greek Revival lamp which I study and read with every day, it has certainly enriched my life. The other two were two incredible paintings by once-local artist Niki Farrell.

There are numerous other treasures at this shop, and any lover of wonderful antiques is sure to find something they love here.

The staff are wondrously nice and helpful - I do not understand what a previous reviewer meant when they said they had a...