WHERE ART FINDS A HOME

By Beverly Gentry

Just off the historic square in Waxahachie, behind the doors of a century-old building on South Rogers Street, is a space that feels part gallery, part antique shop, and part artist studio.

Atelier Antiques belongs to artist and photographer Andrea Calvery, whose creative vision extends far beyond collecting beautiful objects. Instead, she has created an environment where art, history, books, antiques, and conversation exist together naturally. Walking into Atelier feels less like entering a store and more like stepping into someone’s creative world. Paintings lean beside antique furnishings and weathered architectural pieces. Portraits share space with stacks of books, elaborate mirrors, aged fabrics, and unexpected objects that quietly invite curiosity.

Nothing feels overly staged. Everything feels collected over time.

Calvery, a portrait artist and photographer, has filled the historic building with layered spaces that encourage visitors to slow down and explore. One room may feature dramatic artwork and antique frames, while another offers quiet seating areas tucked among shelves of books waiting to be discovered.

Toward the back of the building, a future speakeasy space hints at Calvery’s larger vision for Atelier as not only a gallery and antique destination, but also a gathering place for artists, creatives, and the community itself. Upstairs, sunlight pours through tall windows across rooms filled with portraiture, antique furnishings, stage costumes, and works in progress. The building’s original freight elevator remains as part of its history and charm.What makes Atelier memorable is not simply the collection of objects inside it, but the feeling the space creates. 

Visitors may arrive looking for antiques or artwork, but often leave inspired by the atmosphere itself.