The restaurant and nightlife scene in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood has been thriving for several years, but the shopping scene has lagged behind. That is now changing. Elm & Iron, a home goods store, is one of several recently-opened retailers to complement the lineup of restaurants on Vine Street.
Elm & Iron is located at the corner of Vine and Mercer streets, steps away from popular eateries like The Eagle and Holtman’s Donuts.
This fresh store specializes in eclectic, vintage home goods. Their eye-catching displays draw customers from the street. A classic automobile and a teepee greet you as you walk through the front doors. An antique telephone booth awaits in the other corner.
Elm & Iron specializes in vintage home decor — Photo courtesy of Jonathan Gibson
Lots of fun accessories wait to be discovered. Many are vintage items that have been upcycled into something unique, like a chandelier made from an old globe or old books that have been cut into the shapes of letters.
Elm & Iron sells plenty of new items also. Candles and pillows are two of their bestsellers.
Elm & Iron carries new items like candles alongside vintage pieces — Photo courtesy of Terri Weeks
A few of the items can’t be found in other stores. Laser-cut wooden road maps of Ohio and Kentucky are a unique find. Bottle openers made from old barrel slats are also exclusive.
The store carries furniture pieces too: chairs, coffee tables and more.
This fascinating store fills a need in the neighborhood by providing something for patrons of nearby restaurants to do while they wait for a table. Many customers discover the store by accident, but once they’ve found it, they make a point of returning.
Elm & Iron carries upcycled vintage items — Photo courtesy of Terri Weeks
Many of the items are sourced from Ohio antiques markets. Owner Dan McClurg is personally involved in selecting merchandise.
Cincinnati is Elm & Iron’s second location. The store originated in Columbus, near where McClurg lives.
McClurg discovered the growing Over-the-Rhine neighborhood while attending an event in Cincinnati and wanted to be a part of its growth.
Business has been so good that the store plans to open a second Cincinnati location, called Elm & Iron Loft, in the summer of 2016.
Over-the-Rhine prides itself on having independent restaurants and retailers. You won’t find any chains here. The historic neighborhood features the country’s largest collection of Italianate architecture. After your visit to Elm & Iron, why not stroll around the neighborhood and appreciate the unique architecture and charm of the area?
Elm & Iron is conveniently close to restaurants on Vine St. — Photo courtesy of Terri Weeks
Elm & Iron is a perfect place to discover that unique item that you didn’t know you wanted. Whether you browse while waiting to get into a restaurant or make a special trip to furnish your home, you’re likely to find something that you just can’t live without.
