Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1480369
Jim Kastleman JACK THOMPSON T he Round Top Antiques & Design Show could easily be compared to a shapeshifter: Each show, vendors and venues change locations, properties expand and contract, a food truck here one show is two miles away the next. It's wonderful in a way — a constantly changing platform with creative forces moving about, performance art in the physical realm. It's also a contrast of consolidation and diversification at the same time. Some venues are consolidating ownership, while other vendors splinter off those venues with a new location, an additional location, or a new concept in the same or different location. The most notable news of late is that the owners of Blue Hills have purchased the venerable Big Red Barn. Lucky for us, the Layne family has proven to be master stewards of Blue Hills and are supremely poised to carry on the traditions of The Original Round Top Antiques Fair far and beyond. The Compound — one of the first new-construction venues, and an anchor for so many vendors and entertainment — has been allowing other vendors to purchase adjacent land to build their own buildings, creating more of a compound to visit. Marburger's new owners have undertaken a massive, much-needed renovation and updating of its buildings. Don't worry, these are only vaguely cosmetic and will preserve the integrity of the institution for years into the future. Wimberly opens a men's store; Southern Beasts, Sapana, and Starr'z all take over Teague's; and on and on. Sounds like you need a comprehensive show guide to navigate all of this. Lucky you, it's in your hands! Spread the word and pass this guide around — and easily find our guide online. Jim Kastleman Chairman jim@papercitymag.com 12