Architectural Artifacts Inc. — Local services in Toledo

Having previously been a very vocal advocate of this place (even to the point of bringing people to see it), sadly I have to retract my support.

Roughly 9 months ago I purchased a very large, rather expensive pocket door. I saw termite damage on the bottom & commented on it at the time, but I thought it was limited to just that spot. I did not inspect thoroughly enough, however. The project I purchased it for was extensive & I had a delay (the birth of a child will do that), but I stored it on blocks with care. Finally, I got to the part where I would hang the door. In cleaning it, I actually punched two holes through it due to MUCH more extensive termite damage than I had assumed.

I contacted the company to seek an exchange. The best they would offer was half off a new door (about $350). We reluctantly offered up to $200, but were refused. Note that they still had the same doors now that they did 9 months ago, so this isn't a hot item flying out the door on a common basis.

While they carry an array of really interesting stuff, make certain to inspect your purchase with a magnifying glass & be prepared to eat your investment. As for me, that will be my last trip to their shop & I'll also be telling everyone I know: BUYER BEWARE!

Update: In response to the owner, the termite damage on the bottom WAS noted & discussed. It was why I contemplated one of their other doors. What's more, the person loading the door actually broke off a piece of the trim from the bottom (the upper right in the pictures) & commented on it specifically. So... No, that part is absolutely a lie on their part.

Further, I have pest control come in as a preventative measure. Since we had some damage long before we occupied the house, that seemed like a wise move. No active termite tunnels were found in our home nor in the door.

Again, I loved this place before. Only use them if you're absolutely willing to eat...

I really, really want to love this place a lot, but it is just OK.

Pros: If you are renovating or restoring an older house and want to make it 100% period-accurate, you do need to check this place out. They have many unique door knobs, hinges, windows, sinks, bathtubs, toilets, architectural elements, furniture, mantles, stonework, etc. from historic homes and many of these pieces are in near-perfect condition. The price for these near-perfect items are reasonable but on the high side, but again, if you are restoring and really want something unique or period-accurate, that is essentially in perfect condition they will have it.

Cons: Overall, it is way too expensive. While their perfect pieces are reasonable, the majority of their pieces are overpriced. Majority of pieces have damage: dents, cracks, chips, obvious, missing parts, missing window panes, and a lot of water damage and rotten wood, etc. that are still priced for hundreds and hundreds of dollars as if they were in perfect condition. The majority of pieces need work to get back to their perfect condition, yet still priced at a premium. Regarding the cat, super friendly. I dont like cats and don't think the cat smell is that overwhelming, but you can still smell it. I did see the cat sitting on a very expensive chair, so I personally thought that was a bit... tacky.

I really want to like it there, but I just think their prices are too high specifically for pieces that are not in perfect condition. The pieces I wanted I would have to spend hours refinishing/fixing due to damage and wood rot, which really defeats the purpose at the cost I would have to pay. Again, if you are restoring or renovating, definitely...

I wish I had checked this place out when we started working on our historic home! This place is huge and very well organized, with a ton of treasures to be found. MASSIVE selection of vintage / antique doors, bathroom equipment, knobs and handles and everything you need if you're missing one special piece in your cool old home! One trip wasn't enough to see everything. The owner we spoke to was very friendly and knowledgeable as well, just a delightful experience overall.

I had overheard on a few occasions people complaining about the prices here which put me off for the longest time, but now that I've stopped in, I regret listening to those people - This is not a thrift store, don't expect thrift store prices! I thought the prices were extremely fair for what this is; A huge and carefully procured collection of hard to find specific items for your old home, which you're unlikely to find anywhere else. I'd be happy to pay the prices they're asking, and am excited to come back with measurements and pictures to find some important pieces my home needs, particularly some spindles for my staircase (as they had an entire ROOM full!)

I'd DEFINITELY recommend you check...