A vintage interior and furniture store in the city has expanded its premises to launch a UK-first showroom.

Laura Budds opened Norfolk Retro in St Augustines Street in 2021 and has now expanded her showroom into the building next door.

She has transformed the additional space into the UK's first Ercol furniture high street showroom, showcasing the high-end brand's pieces.

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Retro launched in St Augustines Street in 2021Norfolk Retro launched in St Augustines Street in 2021 (Image: Tamsyn Morgans)

Ms Budds explained that Ercol furniture is currently highly sought after due to its quality and ability to suit modern homes.

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"I've specialised in sourcing and restoring Ercol armchairs, coffee tables and dining furniture for a number of years and have taken the opportunity to expand into the vacant space next door to offer a whole showroom full of Ercol furniture," she said.

"These are investment pieces and usually bought from dealers online, so the opportunity to browse and discuss options in person is unique."

Eastern Daily Press: Ms Budds was a high school English teacher before launching her storeMs Budds was a high school English teacher before launching her store (Image: Tamsyn Morgans)

She said she loves running a high-street furniture store because it enables a more personal shopping experience.

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"I offer a curated range of vintage furniture that is ready to go straight into a modern home.

"High street vintage shops are few and far between but customers still value that in-person experience."

Eastern Daily Press: The showroom opened on MondayThe showroom opened on Monday (Image: Tamsyn Morgans)

Before launching her business, Ms Budds was a high school English teacher who sold vintage items as a hobby.

She progressed to selling at fairs and pop-ups before finding a permanent spot in St Augustines Street.

Ms Budds added she particularly loves the sustainable aspect of selling vintage furniture.

"I hand source everything myself and never travel outside of the UK.

"I love the thrill of scouring vintage fairs and antique warehouses looking for the gems that my customers will love.

"I offer personal shopping and interior styling services too so it's a really creative and challenging job."

The showroom opened on Monday and Ms Budds said it has had "a great response" so far.