Nestled into Broadway in trendy Kitsilano is Stepback, a cozy shop with neatly arranged vintage and vintage-style items that will have shoppers cruising for hours. Each corner has a stylishly arranged vignette with ever-changing items, from crafty cards to antique silver tea sets and even furniture, while classic tunes murmur overhead. There’s something for everyone at Stepback, with unique finds to make the perfect vintage-styled home with collectible knickknacks that speak to years gone by.
Chris Switzer and his wife, Robin Muxlow, opened Stepback in 2005. Despite differing careers, they share a passion for the styling of their home, which they purchased just around the corner from the current shop location. While out for a neighbourhood walk, they saw the space for lease and decided to open their own store to allow their passion for vintage become a business.
“My parents have always collected and that’s all I did growing up; flea markets, auctions and garage sales,” says Chris. With a mutual love of collectibles and zero retail experience, Robin and Chris have created a experience that seems a mix of both shopping and nostalgia.