A Tapestry of Diverse Styles

AT KNOLLWOOD ANTIQUES, EVERY PIECE HAS A UNIQUE STORY 

By Samantha Anderson Photos by Gregory Cherin

A guest bedroom in Richard LaVigné’s house is a reflection of his eclectic style that is found throughout his home and his Knollwood Antiques in Lee.

When you step into Knollwood Antiques, you’re not merely crossing the threshold of a building; you’re stepping into a world of stories, craftsmanship, and the charm of timeless design. Established in the spring of 2024, this antique collective at 57 Park Street in Lee is quickly establishing itself as a pillar of the region’s vibrant arts and culture scene. With its compelling blend of history, artistry, and community, Knollwood Antiques is more than just a shop; it’s an experience.

A Vision Brought to Life 

Richard LaVigné, the charismatic founder of Knollwood Antiques, began his journey as a collector when he was just seven. A young boy with a paper route in Marlborough, Massachusetts, he discovered a small shop called the Mountain View Untidy Shop. Its owner, an older woman with an eye for treasures, became his mentor and introduced him to the world of antiques. With earnings from his route, LaVigné purchased his first piece—a small, intricately crafted Japanese Kutani-style porcelain lidded jar. To this day, the jar remains part of his personal collection, which he proudly displays in his home located not far from his store. It reflects his lifelong passion, and even more remarkable, the jar still holds its original potpourri, emitting a delicate, aromatic fragrance more than 65 years later. 

LaVigné’s decades of experience have made him a revered figure in the antiques industry, and his journey to establishing Knollwood is as serendipitous as it is inspiring. 

LaVigné, standing, is flanked by Knollwood manager Pasha Pchelnikov, left, and director of e-commerce Erik Long, right.

“In March 2024, I was stuck in traffic,” he recalls. “I noticed this dilapidated building with a 'For Sale' sign, and I pulled over.” Over the next few months, with the help of a supportive landlord and an industrious team, including gallery manager, Pasha Pchelnikov, and director of e-commerce, Erik Long, the space was transformed. “Our landlord believed in our vision,” LaVigné says. “He let us run with it, and we’ve never looked back.” 

That potential has been fully realized, with Knollwood Antiques now thriving in a space that has been lovingly restored. Open for just one month, by the end of July 2024, the store had already been featured as a new must-see venue by Antiques and the Arts Weekly, the leading national weekly publication on the antiques and the arts trade. 

A Vibrant Collective 

Knollwood isn’t your typical antique gallery, with each of its 32 vendors bringing their own flair and specialties to the gallery. From international dealers traveling between Paris, London, and New York, to local artisans from the Berkshires, it is a tapestry of diverse styles and periods. 

"Each vendor brings something unique to the table," LaVigné explains. "We look for informed vendors who are specialists in their fields, but we also value generalists with decades of experience who understand the nuances of the industry." Vendors collaborate, share knowledge, and even mentor the next generation of antique dealers, fostering a sense of community that is obvious the minute you step inside. 

One such vendor is Elizabeth Winslow, a dealer specializing in items sourced from English country house estates. Winslow’s curated selection includes pieces with historical significance and enduring charm. “I love buying from English country house estates because the items have usually been in one family’s collection for many generations, sometimes centuries,” Winslow shares. “They’re well-loved and well-taken care of. You can see the personalities of the families who cherished them.” Winslow notes that her collection resonates with Knollwood’s clientele since the pieces are beautiful but also comfortable and sturdy, fitting perfectly in the old houses around the Berkshires. 

Richard LaVigné’s home, located not far from his store, is filled with beautiful pieces that reflect his eclectic and exquisite taste. The first piece that LaVigné purchased 65 years ago—a small, intricately crafted Japanese Kutani-style porcelain lidded jar—remains a part of his personal collection, which is visible next to where LaVigné is seated.

Knollwood’s defining feature is its constant evolution. Pieces move quickly, and the gallery’s layout is refreshed daily. This rapid turnover keeps vendors on their toes, ensuring the gallery remains dynamic and full of surprises. Whether it’s a classic Americana piece from David and Sherry Buxton or high-style items from Peter Murphy, there’s always something new to discover.

Sharing the Knowledge

For LaVigné, Knollwood is more than selling antiques—it’s about passing on knowledge. Mentoring the next generation of antique dealers is a cornerstone of his mission. As he talks about his team members, his eyes swell with tears. “Pasha and Erik are like sponges,” he says with pride. “They absorb everything, and they’re the future of this industry.” 

Pasha Pchelnikov, gallery manager, is instrumental in curating Knollwood’s dynamic displays. From 18th-century furniture to modernist touches, his eye for design ensures the gallery is always fresh and enticing. LaVigné notes, “We aim for nuanced window displays that captivate without overwhelming, and Pasha nails it every time.” 

Knollwood’s reach extends far beyond its walls. Under Erik Long’s e-commerce leadership, the collective is expanding its online presence, making its products accessible to a global audience. “Erik is a social media wizard,” LaVigné says. “He posts daily on Instagram, and it’s been a game-changer for us.” The store plans to expand sales to platforms like Shopify and Chairish. The global reach became evident when a client in France purchased a rare item. Utilizing local shipping partner Barrington Pack and Ship, they ensured the piece was meticulously prepared for its journey overseas, reinforcing their commitment to quality. 

Working alongside LaVigné has been a transformative experience for his younger team members, who say his guidance extends beyond technical skills, imparting lessons on customer interactions, sourcing unique pieces, and understanding the rich history behind each item. “Richard loves mentoring us,” says Pasha. “He knows everything there is to know about this business, and he teaches us how to avoid the mistakes.” This dynamic has cultivated a supportive and innovative environment, fostering both personal and professional growth. 

Walking through Knollwood Antiques is like stepping into a carefully curated space, where LaVigné’s passion for his craft is evident in every detail, from the expertly arranged vignettes to the warm welcome extended to every visitor. “This isn’t just a business for me,” he says, “it’s my life’s work, and I’m grateful every day to share it with such an incredible team and community.” 

Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a design enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, Knollwood Antiques offers an unforgettable experience. As LaVigné puts it, “We’re not just selling antiques; we’re preserving stories, celebrating artistry, and creating connections.”