Robert Keyes founded a cabinet-making and antique furniture restoration business in London's East End in the late 1930s and then went to war for 6 years. After de-mobbing he continued where he'd left off and set-up his first workshop in Bateman's Row - a rundown, tiny street full of small workspaces and factories in what is now one of London's most expensive and sought after areas in Shoreditch.
After Robert Keyes' retirement, Matthew Crawford, his grandson, took over the business after apprenticing with him in the early 1980s and relocated the workshop to Islington, north London.
After Robert Keyes' retirement, Matthew Crawford, his grandson, took over the business after apprenticing with him in the early 1980s and relocated the workshop to Islington, north London.
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Here at After Noah, we sell a wide range of furniture that spans antique, vintage, mid-century and contemporary pieces - all of it viewable both here on our website and on our shop floor. All of the antique, vintage and mid-century furniture runs through our on-site workshop to ensure it's in beautiful condition before it makes it out onto the floor for sale.
We've been sourcing, buying, restoring and selling mid century furniture for decades. We live, love and breathe it. Every piece we purchase, whether it be a mid century classic such as the Playboy chair by Jens Risom or an unattributable, but stylish desk, have all been run through our workshop and nursed back to health by our craftswomen and men who've spent years honing their skills. It means that you can buy with confidence, knowing that the furniture you buy from us looks just as it should to look wonderful in your home.
In this corner of our website, you'll find items of vintage furniture that date from centuries ago, all the way forward to the 1970s. We know lots of stuff about lots of things when it comes to furniture, and here at After Noah we'll tell you all we know about it. Rest assured that it's been lovingly restored, cleaned, revived and generally taken care of before it arrives on the shop floor to tempt you.
We've been salvaging, restoring, converting and selling reclaimed furniture and other useful household items which we've rescued from old factories, workshops, schools and hospitals for almost 30 years. Complementing this range, there are now a handful of manufacturers around who are making retro versions with a similar feel.
Reviews (39)
Jake Orr
Jun 04, 2022
J.
May 30, 2022
Georgia B.
May 27, 2022
Andrew Malone
May 10, 2022
Apr 03, 2022
Gi C.
Mar 16, 2022
Marcel Schlobach
Feb 17, 2022
Jack Martini
Feb 09, 2022
Bought this Swyft Sofa from After Noah and they are great! Our house is a ground floor flat with a very narrow entrance. We couldn't buy a normal sofa because it wouldn't fit through the corridors to take it to the living room. We were still worried that this self assemble sofa wouldn't make it through either but it did! It's very clever that they made the longest part of the sofa design no taller than the hight of the door, so when we propped them up it just when through the door, through the thin corridor and into the living room without a problem. Super comfortable sofa too, and we are really happy with it! Our new puppy loves the sofa too! :
Celon Delon
Dec 22, 2021
Vlad Manyukhin
Dec 06, 2021
Katie Wilkins
Dec 04, 2021
We recently bought a Swyft sofa from this lovely shop and had a great experience. After lots of help and assistance from the people that work here and some helpful tips from the owner over the phone on building the sofa, we are very happy with our purchase. We look forward to buying more pieces from this hidden gem in Angel.
Matt Herron
Dec 01, 2021
Edward Sykes
Nov 20, 2021
Natasha Thaladi
Nov 14, 2021
I bought Swyft sofabed model 4. The team were excellent with communication about order and delivery. It could take up to 2 weeks for delivery but I had asked if they could expedite due to a family event and they tried their best. It was delivered in two days. The sofa is comfortable to sit and sleep on. Really happy with the purchase. Only thing is that there is a lot of packaging. Other reviews suggest that packaging was taken away but I wasn't given that option on delivery.
Sara Skodbo
Oct 30, 2021
Eric Bellancourt
Oct 16, 2021
Joseph Clift
Oct 15, 2021
I only became aware of After Noah when looking at locations you could view Swyft sofas, and had a great experience there - they seemed to have all the Swyft models, and samples on the different colours available (which I could take home). I did this on the Sunday - the sofa arrived on the Thursday, and was super simple to assemble myself. Will definitely be going back as they've got some lovely stuff in the store, and really helpful staff too.
Nikita M.
Dec 07, 2020
I made an error with a sofa bed order and phoned within hours to cancel it. I was almost struck dumb by the smug rudeness of Simon, the manager. He said that I couldn't cancel as it was a 'special order' (it absolutely wasn't) He laughed when I brought up distance buying rights and said I 'should have read the small print'. Be wary, these guys are not the sweet, accommodating 'family outfit' they portray on their web page. Stay away.
Judith M.
Sep 19, 2019
Karishma P.
Jan 25, 2016
After Noah is a very interesting shop to pop into if you are strolling down the street after indulging at one of the many amazing cafes/bakeries here. Lots of quirky stuff, you never know what you may find. Spread across 2 floors, the downstairs is mostly furniture and the garden out back has outdoor furniture and decor. The ground floor has a mix of children's gift items, unique watches and loads of other bric-a-brac, that are a pleasure to browse through.
I saw a lot of childrens items that I have only read about in books or seen on screen, and they also have some modern toys. I'm no expert on antique / restored / refurbished furniture, but while the prices do seem high, they do seem to be good quality too.
I saw a lot of childrens items that I have only read about in books or seen on screen, and they also have some modern toys. I'm no expert on antique / restored / refurbished furniture, but while the prices do seem high, they do seem to be good quality too.
Nickie C.
Nov 28, 2015
A creaky TARDIS full of delights pretty much sums up After Noah. I'm a sucker for a toy shop so succumbed to the siren's call and went in. The shop is essentially split into 3 parts - the left is gifty-type things. Reminded me of a Joy. Right has toys and games. Downstairs is vintage and vintage-style furniture and furnishings. While I was there, I loved it.
It felt quirky and cool. But I left empty-handed. I mean, it's overpriced, of course. That kind of stuff you don't need shop always is, and being in Islington compounds that. And it's full. Really, really full, which makes me not want to look at things. But if I hadn't already done Christmas pressies for my niece and nephew, I'm sure a few things would have ended up in my possession. For now though, it's a nice place to pop in and look around, and gawk at the vintage things I just can't afford!
It felt quirky and cool. But I left empty-handed. I mean, it's overpriced, of course. That kind of stuff you don't need shop always is, and being in Islington compounds that. And it's full. Really, really full, which makes me not want to look at things. But if I hadn't already done Christmas pressies for my niece and nephew, I'm sure a few things would have ended up in my possession. For now though, it's a nice place to pop in and look around, and gawk at the vintage things I just can't afford!
Joelle R.
Jul 28, 2015
This place is adorable. A bit pricey, but some of the items are so unique and quirky, that you can't help but consider them. There's this great lighted sign that hangs above the stairs that says "Open to Both Sexes" that I covet intensely. I'm trying to figure out if its for sale and if I can get it back to the States. We popped in here recently to buy a baby gift for a friend and had so much fun playing with the charming toys and reading through the carefully selected children's books.
We bought the cutest wrapping paper -- super thick and durable, cute vintage robots! -- and it was a big hit. It better be, to be honest, at 2.50 per sheet. Fantastic vintage pieces, goodies and furniture and definitely good for a wander.
We bought the cutest wrapping paper -- super thick and durable, cute vintage robots! -- and it was a big hit. It better be, to be honest, at 2.50 per sheet. Fantastic vintage pieces, goodies and furniture and definitely good for a wander.
Lenka N.
Nov 05, 2013
Maybe I am weird, but I don't seem to get gift shops. Why would anyone buy anything of no use? I find it with this shop in particular. Jewellery - ok. Wrapping paper - totally! I think their selection of wrapping papers is great (not that I would ever buy wrapping paper. I make my own.) but other than that. Nothing, I would need or desire or anyone else would.
In fact, I never heard anyone saying: 'Oh, I wish to get these quirky looking tooth picks for my birthday!' Have you? If you have, please send me a contact for this person, because I would be very curious to understand him/her. Yes, pretty shop. But that's about it. The furniture. Well, I rather won't go there.
In fact, I never heard anyone saying: 'Oh, I wish to get these quirky looking tooth picks for my birthday!' Have you? If you have, please send me a contact for this person, because I would be very curious to understand him/her. Yes, pretty shop. But that's about it. The furniture. Well, I rather won't go there.
Qype User Fefifa
Aug 21, 2013
This is definitely the shop to go when you are looking for aexceptional gift for the children. Many of the toys are displayed. It is cool shop that provides kids toys, in a very affordable price yet very high quality products. This store was such a treat to come here. It's the peak of toys. Generally, I would say it is definitely a nice place/shop to buy a toys, & a quite a fun experience and even if you don't shop here regularly for your toy needs, you should come at least once and spend a few timesviewing around.
Colleen C.
Jun 10, 2013
:::::walks through door::: "My word, this place is darling!" ::::rushes around looking at everything excitedly::: "This is what I've been looking for! Look at all the THINGS!" :::::peers at price tags::: "WHAT!?" Alright, I realize we're all up in Angel here.where the streets are paved with money and the wallets open freely, but I just cannot get on board with the general pricing structure of After Noah.
For a small gift? Perchance. There are some very cute things, most notably the children's toy and gift section. I wouldn't imagine you'd buy these for your own children, but perhaps for other unrelated children of which you were looking to impress their parents or get in good with your boss that has sprung offspring. But the vintage restored furniture? Blasphemously overpriced and indulgently ridiculous at said price point. Especially, if you know your stuff.
While its all very gorgeous and wonderful, the prices are absolutely outrageous. Even for London. Even for Angel. Why the ire? Well, you see.they had an IDENTICAL chest of drawers to one that lives in my home. Same make, really.identical. I purchased this from *The Restoration in Stoke Newington a few months ago for 300 (and free delivery). How much do you think it was at After Noah? 1,295.
Get out of town, Noah. That is just some ish right there. Don't get me wrong, this place is truly, truly darling -- but just know what you are getting into. Perhaps if you are sick of looking, have a lot of extra cash or have your ey on something you cannot live without you can stomach the price, but I could not. However, their stationary, gift and child toy collection?
A bit less rich, and a good stop for a present. But, the furniture.well, I'll find somewhere else to sit, thankyouverymuch! *The Restoration: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-restoration-london-2
For a small gift? Perchance. There are some very cute things, most notably the children's toy and gift section. I wouldn't imagine you'd buy these for your own children, but perhaps for other unrelated children of which you were looking to impress their parents or get in good with your boss that has sprung offspring. But the vintage restored furniture? Blasphemously overpriced and indulgently ridiculous at said price point. Especially, if you know your stuff.
While its all very gorgeous and wonderful, the prices are absolutely outrageous. Even for London. Even for Angel. Why the ire? Well, you see.they had an IDENTICAL chest of drawers to one that lives in my home. Same make, really.identical. I purchased this from *The Restoration in Stoke Newington a few months ago for 300 (and free delivery). How much do you think it was at After Noah? 1,295.
Get out of town, Noah. That is just some ish right there. Don't get me wrong, this place is truly, truly darling -- but just know what you are getting into. Perhaps if you are sick of looking, have a lot of extra cash or have your ey on something you cannot live without you can stomach the price, but I could not. However, their stationary, gift and child toy collection?
A bit less rich, and a good stop for a present. But, the furniture.well, I'll find somewhere else to sit, thankyouverymuch! *The Restoration: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-restoration-london-2
Steve B.
Feb 22, 2012
Ashley V.
Dec 04, 2011
SIDN stores (Shite I Don't Need). Angel seems to be full of em. This one takes the cake. It has everything that anyone could ever not need. haha No really though, cute antiques, great little gifts for men and women, a great toy selection as well. When it's not super crowded (cause busy but narrow walkways can get annoying) I could walk around and browse through everything in that darn place for hours.
Freya C.
Sep 05, 2011
Antique furniture Wrapping paper map-posters Mr Men/Little Miss mugs Kitsch-covered notepads Wooden printing block letters Retro kiddies toys Collage artcards Jigsaw puzzles Old fashioned sweetshop jars Floral print watering cans Vintage jewellery Penguin classic books Travel journal pocketbooks.and so much more you'll have to go look yourself, and see what you find.
Janed
Jul 20, 2011
Just a brief one to say that a rather large friend of mine managed to snap a back leg off one of a set of 6 Regency chairs belonging to my parents. Crawford Restoration were efficient - quoted me from an email pic - collected the chair the next day - repaired it by the following week - and you can't see the join. It really looks like an invisible mend - you'd never know it was broken (and nor does my mother). Really impressed.
Meike B.
May 23, 2011
I was almost disappointed to stumble across Noah Noah on Upper Street as I thought the branch on Kings Road was the one and only. But only almost, as you can't have too many stores like this to take you back in childhood history. I love brwosing the beautifully restored vintage furniture and browse toys of an era long forgotten. Perfect for gifts, both to others and yourself - a true feelgood oasis.
Joshua S.
Mar 01, 2011
I love After Noah. And I've never even purchased anything here. Of course, I plan to. The only problem is that I want to buy EVERYTHING in this store. If ever the world is getting you down, or its just one of those cold blustery days that happen all too often here in the N1, just hop over to After Noah and you'll be six years old again - as happy as when you had the best presentation for show and tell. There's everything from board games to models to dolls and beyond.
But its not just for kids, there is plenty of stuff here that would make a great gift for anyone who is still a little kid on the inside. and really, isn't that everyone?
But its not just for kids, there is plenty of stuff here that would make a great gift for anyone who is still a little kid on the inside. and really, isn't that everyone?
Lizzie S.
Nov 11, 2010
Wow, just wow! Ever in a bind finding a gift for someone? Not after a visit here. You'll find what you're looking for or be inspired enough to pick up something completely unique and original. I really could spend hours in this shop, browsing the tea sets, paper dolls and plastic vegetables. Yup, I've turned into a 7 year old. But don't judge me, walk in there and it will happen to you. Hold on a moment, I'm desperately late for some urgent finger painting.
Leon C.
Dec 25, 2009
This place is a retro, toy store super star. For any kind of old fashioned, classic candy, or toy, this place will have something on show that will make you exclaim "I remember that!" The great thing about After Noah is that you do not have to spend a fortune. There are goodies from pennies up to pounds. This is a fantastic place for a peruse that will see you leave with something that makes you smile.
Karen F.
Dec 15, 2008
Its commercialised no doubt, but the basement is what I liked. Why? The next time you step in take a look at the basement items, its not displayed, well like the upstairs; but there are pieces of furniture that I would love to get my hands on. Its totally a cool site to see; old genuine wooden furniture and valuable. I also like the collection of vintage phones that they have kept locked in a showcase.
But the prices are crazy! and I'm not spending that kind in credit crunch season. I wonder if they are meant to be sold at all with that price tag. hhmmmm! The children's section I found very interactive, but its mostly decorative stuff like alphabetic letters, dolls, wooden toys, puzzles, more soft toys, and lots more of course. But you have to look around really well to spot something of interest. I think some of the items are very pricey, the store is not designed in a child friendly design. Its like being in a tennis court watching the ball travel. Neck-racking!
But the prices are crazy! and I'm not spending that kind in credit crunch season. I wonder if they are meant to be sold at all with that price tag. hhmmmm! The children's section I found very interactive, but its mostly decorative stuff like alphabetic letters, dolls, wooden toys, puzzles, more soft toys, and lots more of course. But you have to look around really well to spot something of interest. I think some of the items are very pricey, the store is not designed in a child friendly design. Its like being in a tennis court watching the ball travel. Neck-racking!
Evelyn M.
Dec 03, 2008
Every time I walk past After Noah I see children run to the glass display and point to toys and sweets they have to have. I then watch as their parents do exactly the same. You can't help but love After Noah because of this, it brings out the big kid in everyone. The shop itself stocks a beautiful selection of old and new toys and games, though don't go in looking for a Nintendo or a Wii, it's not that kind of place.
Although things can be quite pricey, I would describe After Noah as the perfect shop if you're struggling for present ideas for someone. You would have to be buying for scrooge for them not to like something in this shop. My personal favourites are the wooden cars in the window that are just big enough for a toddler to sit on and push around.
I like them so much that I am encouraging family members to have children just so that I can buy one. This might take a while though so maybe I should just bite the bullet and ask them if they have any in adult sizes. Children get enough presents anyway!
Although things can be quite pricey, I would describe After Noah as the perfect shop if you're struggling for present ideas for someone. You would have to be buying for scrooge for them not to like something in this shop. My personal favourites are the wooden cars in the window that are just big enough for a toddler to sit on and push around.
I like them so much that I am encouraging family members to have children just so that I can buy one. This might take a while though so maybe I should just bite the bullet and ask them if they have any in adult sizes. Children get enough presents anyway!
Prudence I.
Nov 23, 2008
This shop sells really sweet tasteful gifts and toys, stocking filler bits that you'd probably never buy for yourself but love to give to other people. It's perfect around Christmas when it's Just William retro aesthetic seems comforting and appropriate but it's a handy place to pop in if you've got difficult men (fathers, brothers, boyfriends.) or children to buy for.
The toys are really fun, I always leave with that childhood feeling of really wanting something, even though I know I'd go off it as soon as I got home but you can have a little play with most things when you're in the shop.
The toys are really fun, I always leave with that childhood feeling of really wanting something, even though I know I'd go off it as soon as I got home but you can have a little play with most things when you're in the shop.
Carolina G.
Nov 16, 2008
Quirky, Kitsch, and Quirky! Too much to look at I just want to touch and buy everything, it is a well sized shop with bit and pieces from yester-year. As you know you must pay a price for these little treasures but some are totally worth it. Bought an old tin Arsenal F.C sign for the hubby and he loved it, at 24 it was worth his joy when he got it, not to sound like a master card advert but, that was priceless.
It is a blend of antique, vintage and contemporary furniture, furniment, jewellery, gifts and toys (lots of them!) they have know opened a toy shop next door. That's proving very popular you will no doubt hear more than a few people saying the same phrase 'God, do you remember these?'
It is a blend of antique, vintage and contemporary furniture, furniment, jewellery, gifts and toys (lots of them!) they have know opened a toy shop next door. That's proving very popular you will no doubt hear more than a few people saying the same phrase 'God, do you remember these?'
Rory F.
Nov 14, 2008
After Noah's existance makes me happy. This store has loads of trinkets new and old and a whole lower level of antiques. This store is one part vintage toy shop, one part antiques, and one part kitch gifts for the home. This place is great to place to pick out unique present. Check out Anti-Monoply and the retro wall clocks! Hot.
Qype User Marina
Jun 17, 2008
Here you need to be prepared before going in as it's a flashback in childhood. All the games you had when you were a child are there. When girls were playing cooking and boys small cars. Small food and small copy of what you are using everyday. They are not expensive and they let you touch everything. Be prepared to feel like a child. There are also sweets from yesterday that I had forgot.
Plenty of souvenirs and new intelligent games. Downstairs, it's all abot furniture and wood, all classic but stylish. Go there if you want to buy something you won't regret it.
Plenty of souvenirs and new intelligent games. Downstairs, it's all abot furniture and wood, all classic but stylish. Go there if you want to buy something you won't regret it.