Sep 3, 2007

Offbeat gift store on Broad expandsBy Anne Fitten GlennCitizen-Times.com

Asheville — The eye-catching assortment of giant metal flowers, twirling copper sculptures and other quirky garden decor items in front of the L.O.F.T. storefront is a familiar sight to passers-by on Broadway.

“I bet 40 percent of people come in here because of our display out front,” said Katie Skinner, who opened L.O.F.T. 11 years ago. “Initially, I had to do something to bring people down here. We were not in a real walkable area.”

As the area has evolved, so has the store. Skinner, 39, has recently expanded her business to include an extra 950 square feet below the first floor, which runs about 1350 square feet. The extra space has let her add to the store’s offerings. She’s also increased her staff, so that three or four people work the store during business hours.

Skinner opened L.O.F.T., which stands for Lost Objects Found Treasures, with former business partner Vann Boyd. Originally, they focused on selling “found objects,” art pieces and primitive furniture, some of which they raided from their own houses. Although those all are still available, the business has evolved to include more gift-type items.

“Anything that’s a little off, a little different, will sell well,” Skinner said.

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