History
Julia Shantz, founder of Uniquities Architectural Antiques, grew up in Wales surrounded by history.
This love of history traveled with her when she emigrated to Canada in 1983. In 1992 she and her husband Doug purchased a 1915 heritage home and went about the painstaking and often frustrating task of renovating. It soon became clear that the period hardware and architectural details needed to complete the house were impossible to find in Calgary. Where most would have settled for repro, Julia was inspired to research and develop the concept for Uniquities Architectural Antiques.
Doug Shantz joined the business full time in 2004. His experience as a building contractor is a valuable asset to Uniquities. He can work with clients and builders to help with restoration and installation. Most importantly he can lift very heavy things!
Monique Beaumont started working part time for Julia in 2007. After buying a 17th century English timber frame barn through Uniquities and shipping it to Southern Alberta, she decided she might as well join the business. Monique worked in the interior design industry in Calgary for 5 years and shares Julia’s love of beautiful old things.
We travel to Europe four times a year. A growing part of our business is the "locator's service" offered to clients looking for specific pieces. Through relationship building and mutual trust, Uniquities can source and supply anything from a single item to a complete building.
