If you live in the DC Metro area (DMV), you know the struggle of finding furniture that feels truly "yours." The big-box stores are convenient, sure, but their showrooms often feel like carbon copies of one another. You want character. You want history. You want a piece that anchors a room and starts a conversation.
That is exactly why interior designers and homeowners from Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland are flocking to Frederick, MD.
Located just an hour from the capital, historic downtown Frederick has quietly become the premier destination for antique sourcing in the Mid-Atlantic. It is quaint, walkable, and packed with history—but don't let the small-town charm fool you. This is a serious design center where prestigious homes find their finishing touches.
Today, we are taking you on a tour of our home base and the crown jewel of Frederick’s antique scene: The Emporium Antiques Mall.
Why Frederick?
Frederick is more than just a getaway; it is a time capsule. Walking down East Patrick Street feels like stepping onto a movie set, with its preserved Federal and Victorian architecture. For the interior designer or the savvy homeowner, this atmosphere puts you in the right headspace to hunt for treasures.
Unlike the frenetic energy of the city, shopping here is an experience to be savored. You aren't just buying a chair or a sideboard; you are curating a lifestyle. The "hunt" here yields better results because the inventory is vast, authentic, and curated by people who genuinely care about preservation.
The Emporium Experience
At the heart of this district lies the Emporium Antiques Mall. Housed in a historic warehouse that dates back to the early 20th century, the building itself is a marvel of industrial charm, featuring high ceilings and rough-hewn floors that creak reassuringly underfoot.
Inside, you will find over 100 dealers spread across thousands of square feet. It is an eclectic mix that ensures every member of the family finds something to obsess over.
-
For the Purist: You will find vendors specializing in heavy, authentic British and French antiques—the kind of pieces with patinas that only centuries of use can produce.
-
For the Modernist: The Emporium is a goldmine for Mid-Century American antiques. Think sleek lines, warm teak, and that distinct "Mad Men" aesthetic that pairs so beautifully with modern DC condos.
-
For the Collector: There is a massive bookseller on-site with rows of rare and vintage reads, perfect for styling bookshelves or finding a lost classic.
-
For the Historian: The militaria dealers offer a fascinating glimpse into the past with artifacts that remind us of the region's deep historical roots.
Visit US Capital Furniture
Of course, no trip to the Emporium is complete without a stop at US Capital Furniture. We are proud to call this historic mall our home.
We specialize in sourcing unique, high-quality pieces that act as the anchor for your design projects. Whether you are looking for a statement dining table to host holiday dinners or a distinct accent chair to complete a reading nook, our collection is curated with the "DC aesthetic" in mind—sophisticated, timeless, and ready for a prestigious home.
We know that our clients are looking for more than just "old" furniture; they are looking for quality craftsmanship that isn't available in modern manufacturing. When you visit our space within the Emporium, you can see the joinery, feel the weight of the wood, and imagine exactly how it will transform your living space.
Make a Day of It
One of the best parts about our location is what surrounds it. Frederick is synonymous with Civil War history. Just a short walk from our front door is the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. It is an incredibly moving and educational experience that details the innovations in medical care during the war—many of which were developed right here in this region. It’s a fascinating stop that adds depth to your visit.
After you’ve shopped our collection and soaked in some history, downtown Frederick offers an explosion of culinary options. From artisanal coffee shops to high-end farm-to-table dining, you can refuel before heading back to the Emporium for "just one last look" at that piece you can't stop thinking about.
Your Invitation
Whether you are a professional designer looking for that final 10% to complete a project, or a homeowner wanting to break free from the "catalog look," we invite you to visit us.
Come for the history, stay for the charm, and leave with a piece of furniture that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Visit COL Porter's Antiques and Militaria (CPP), a subsidiary of US Capital Furniture Located inside Emporium Antiques Mall 112 E Patrick St, Frederick, MD 21701
See you in Frederick!
— The US Capital Furniture Team
