The iconic red barn located at the corner of Henry Road and the Trans-Canada Highway, a long-time fixture in Chemainus, has closed its doors following nearly 20 years of operation as the Antique Barn. The closure comes after the expiration of the lease and a significant rent increase deemed unaffordable by the current owner, Kevin Smith.
The Antique Barn, a popular destination for antique enthusiasts, treasure hunters, and tourists, was well-known for its collection of vintage goods and its unique location, featuring a CT-133 fighter jet stationed outside, which attracted visitors and sparked curiosity about the large antiques collection housed inside.
Smith, who took over the business in 2019, brought a wealth of experience to the Antique Barn. Before entering the antique trade, Smith had an extensive culinary career, working internationally as a chef in various high-profile positions, including on Arctic expeditions, as a private chef to an Italian baron, and aboard Holland America Line cruise ships. His transition to business ownership came when Vaughn Ford, the previous owner, offered to sell the Antique Barn. What Smith initially planned as a “semi-retirement” turned into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. Under his ownership, the Antique Barn grew substantially, tripling in size and accommodating more than 40 vendors at its peak.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith adapted quickly to the challenges faced by many small businesses. He partnered with U-Haul as a local dealer, generating rental income to offset staffing costs. Smith also invested in significant upgrades to the building, including refinished floors and custom display platforms to enhance the vendor experience.
Smith had ambitious plans for the space, including opening a bakery and pizzeria in the building’s lower unit, combining his culinary background with his growing business. However, those plans were interrupted when the lease came up for renewal in April, and the rent increase proved too steep to sustain.
A Facebook post shared by the business reflected the frustration and disappointment of the closure, stating that the decision to leave was not voluntary and that the rent increase was “massive” and “unjustifiable.” Despite the setback, Smith expressed his commitment to reopening the Antique Barn in a new location, with more than 20 vendors planning to join him once a suitable site is found.
Bergie’s, the food truck operated by Lance Bergeron that had been serving customers outside the Antique Barn, has also relocated to 9347B Trans-Canada Highway in Chemainus, across from the Co-op Gas Station.
Building owner Jim Shockey, a Canadian television producer and big game hunter, confirmed that upgrades are underway to prepare the property for its next use. In a statement, Shockey’s office noted plans for a major clean-up of the building, including the installation of a new roof. While no new tenants have been confirmed, Shockey emphasized that the improvements would help prepare the space for future developments.
The red barn, originally constructed in 1989 by Laurie Arbuthnot and her then-husband Mark Dawe, was first operated as the Chemainus Valley Antique Centre. The couple sold the property in 1996, and since then, it has continued to serve as a hub for antique sales and a local landmark.
As the future of the property remains uncertain, the barn’s long history ensures its place as a cherished landmark in Chemainus, and its next chapter will be watched closely by the community.
