In a city that is so defined by its history, antiques have always had a major presence in Bath’s shops and auction houses. Here we meet Beau Nash Antiques, who stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and exceptional service. Owned by Ron Pringle and Cynthia Wihardja, the business operates two outlets on Brock Street—an antique silver shop and a showroom of furniture & decorative arts. Together, Ron and Cynthia bring decades of international business experience and boundless creativity to ensure Beau Nash remains a cherished destination for antique enthusiasts.
Ron’s journey began with three decades of corporate success across the Middle East, Asia Pacific, India, and Europe, where he grew a thriving multinational enterprise. Cynthia, an accomplished entrepreneur and consultant, has spent over 25 years elevating business performance across Asia. Their combined expertise creates a unique approach to the antiques trade.
Founded in 2014, Beau Nash started as Bath’s only antique silver shop. Inspired by a lifelong passion for collecting silver, Ron poured his business acumen into building a boutique that now boasts the largest collection of silverware in the South West. From the outset, Ron combined his love for silver with exceptional customer service. Partnering initially with silver specialist Duncan Campbell, the shop quickly earned a reputation for its unparalleled selection and personal touch.
In 2021, Cynthia joined Beau Nash, bringing fresh perspectives to the business. Under their joint leadership, Beau Nash expanded in 2022 to a second outlet focused on classic interiors, giving customers an even wider range of curated treasures.
What sets Beau Nash apart is their human approach. There’s always time for a quick chat, or at least a wave and a smile. The dog bowl is always filled with water. The service from the owners and the team is always helpful, honest, and friendly.
Fashionable antiques are set up in an immersive, home-like setting rather than the traditional crowded layouts of most antique establishments. This simple yet transformative idea helps customers visualise how pieces would fit into their homes.
“We are not just selling antiques; we are in the service business,” Cynthia explains. “In everything we do, we aim for customer delight.” This philosophy is evident every day. Ron, for instance, is often seen meticulously polishing a client’s purchase while chatting about its history or swapping stories about rugby. Cynthia’s effort to remember faces and names creates a truly personalised shopping experience.
Beau Nash has earned the loyalty of both UK residents and international visitors. Local Bath residents appreciate the convenience of home trials, allowing them to experience the item before committing to a purchase. London home owners appreciate their biweekly delivery service that helps save costs. International clients value the ease of global shipping, making it simple to acquire unique pieces from Bath to anywhere in the world.
Since opening the second shop, Beau Nash’s impact has grown significantly. “Our firepower has increased threefold,” Ron notes. “The two outlets support each other, strengthening the Beau Nash brand image.”
Whether a client seeks a giltwood overmantle mirror, a Victorian armchair, or a silver sauce ladle, they’re guaranteed more than just a transaction. They receive an experience defined by attention to detail, heartfelt service, and an unwavering commitment to quality—hallmarks of Beau Nash’s old-fashioned yet refreshingly modern approach.
With many thanks to The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa who allowed us to use the hotel as a location for photography.
Beau Nash, 28 and 31 Brock Street , Bath BA1 2LN; Tel: 07535 137808; beaunashbath.com; antiquefurniture.shop; @beaunashbath
To learn more about Bath’s best antique specialists and auctioneers, read the full article at thebathmagazine.co.uk