The biannual event in Round Top, Texas offers the opportunity of seeing gorgeous antiques in a picturesque setting of bluebonnet fields while drinking wine and eating surprisingly gourmet food.
My antique-loving, antique-selling mother visited Round Top for years bringing back fabulous treasures. Only this Spring did I make my first, but definitely not my last trip, to shopping heaven. Just one day at Marburger would be satisfying. The six or so tents there were filled with the most beautiful items. There was something for everyone’s tastes whether you collect crucifixes, paintings, French mirrors, mid-century, etc. If you see something you want you best be prepared to make a quick purchase. By the end of the first day of that show, it was as if a cloud of locusts descended onto the crops. In this case, it was beautifully turned out women picking gems and hurriedly stashing them into waiting black suburbans to whisk them back to their suburban nests.
Additionally, people watching was great fun at Round Top. Texas women know how to dress even for casual events. They always look their best. The women were in their element spending time with their friends while perusing the offerings. How lucky to live in Texas and drive down to the show even if for just one day.
A huge variety of furnishings were seen.
Round Top takes place for 2-3 weeks in the fall and again in the Spring. There are different shows with different start dates. In addition to Marburger, there is the Compound, the fields at Warrenton, The Big Red Barn, and The Arbors just to name a few. You won’t see it all but you don’t need to. Your wallet will be empty after just a few of these shows anyway.
Below is a sampling of what was seen at the Spring show.
1960’s Italian sconces purchased for a Florida client.
19th c Mexican sconces seen at the Compound. If only I had a spot for them.
Mad for these French Moroccan chairs that my client bought. Love the crescent moon at the top.
Bought these Spanish candlestick lamps for a client.
This barstool would make an interesting table.
A client and I designed an open space above her refrigerator for something lovely. The plaster opening had been vacant until we found this gilt tureen.
Despite being out in the fields, Round Top offers sophisticated food.
Lulu’s Italian restaurant was the perfect end to a perfect day of shopping. The lovely interior continued the theme of beauty that was seen all day long within the tents. The high ceilings, wood beams, and peeling plaster were both charming and regal.
The food was delicious too. A striking caesar salad and a rosé champagne-filled coupe . Nothing could be better.
The entrance to someone’s ranch promising that what is at the end of this long drive is something special.
Being back in Texas and out in the country felt so good to this Lone Star girl. I can’t wait to go back.
Casa V can find treasures for your house from bluebonnet-filled fields of Texas.