Written by Keely Gardiner, Photographs by AJ Mills Photography
Since its official opening in April – marked by a visit from Dame Joanna Lumley – the Home of Vintage at Five Valleys is becoming one of Stroud’s most talked‑about new destinations for independent shops, vintage, and art.
But beyond the excitement of its launch lies the real story: a community of traders, makers, and artists who have created something genuinely unique.
Described by Five Valleys as “a vibrant marketplace packed with character, creativity, and community spirit,” the Home of Vintage brings together 34 independent units under one roof. Each is run by passionate specialists offering everything from vintage fashion, upcycled furniture to handcrafted jewellery, photography, art, and ethical homeware.
At a time when the high street is evolving, the Home of Vintage provides small businesses with an accessible, supportive space to grow. Keely Gardiner, the owner of Kb Bags & Vintage, a business rooted in pre‑loved fashion, says the new venture has given her the opportunity to share her love of sustainable style and quality craftsmanship with the Stroud community.
It’s a sentiment echoed by all the traders at the Home of Vintage.
“The rise in vintage reflects a move away from throwaway culture, the cost of living, and a growing awareness of the impact of mass production and fast fashion.” – Kate, Gather Vintage Home & Garden.
Sustainability and slow fashion are common threads throughout the market. Each shop offers items with history, character, and longevity in mind. In a world of fast trends and overconsumption, the Home of Vintage offers something refreshing, time, care, and individuality. The range of items on offer have been carefully curated and with each shop, gallery, or workshop space there is a sense of intention that can be felt when you step inside. There is an emphasis on craft and quality, and the importance of conserving and restoring – whether that is a piece of handmade jewellery, a sculpture, or building a bespoke cabin.
What truly sets the space apart is its people. The traders represent a mix of ages, backgrounds, and creative disciplines, forming a lively, collaborative community. The result is an off‑beat, ever‑changing shopping experience that feels personal and full of discovery. The traders may well be offering a return to things taking longer, of slowing down and savouring uniqueness, something that’s refreshing in an age of micro trends and immediacy.
Alongside vintage fashion and collectables, visitors will find artists, illustrators, photographers, and craftspeople. Workshops and live music add to the atmosphere. The Home of Vintage is a vibrant community of creative, knowledgeable, and like-minded individuals all striving to create and carve out a place that does more than simply sell.
Meet a Few of the Traders:
Carrington’s Coins & Collectables – A family business preserving history through coins, stamps, and rare finds.
Vintage by Rebecca – Curated vintage and designer fashion sourced worldwide.
Hannah O’Kelly Arts – Vintage‑inspired artwork influenced by music, fashion, and social history.
Gather Vintage Home & Garden – Specialists in sourcing and upcycling unique furniture.
Anthony Mills Photography – Unique artwork and a fully equipped studio.
Statham Custom Cabins – Bespoke, handcrafted garden buildings.
Kb Bags & Vintage – 90s/Y2K bags and pre‑loved accessories restored with care.
Zohra’s Eclectic Ornaments & Home Décor – Colourful homeware from across the world.
Mundane Studio – Illustration celebrating everyday storytelling.
Karakorum – Ethical home décor inspired by a 24,000km cycling journey.
Rebellious Romantics – Vintage fashion with a punk‑inspired sustainability ethos.
Located in the heart of Five Valleys Shopping Centre, the Home of Vintage is open Thursday to Sunday. It is a space that continues to grow and evolve and will offer you a different set of treasures each time you visit.
A full list of traders is available on new Home of Vintage section of the Five Valleys website www.fivevalleysstroud.co.uk/home-of-vintage
