Martin Allen Antiques is a South Melbourne dealer specialising in English furniture, fine art and architectural elements from the 17th century through to the 1970s. Rather than a walk-in shop, the business operates by appointment, giving visitors dedicated time to look through pieces that range from Howard & Son sofas and armchairs to marble and stone fireplaces, statement lighting and full panelled rooms. One of the more distinctive parts of the offering is the fireplace and lighting range from Jamb London, Martin Allen Antiques is the exclusive Australian stockist, so it's a rare chance to see these English designs in person rather than ordering sight unseen from overseas. Alongside these newer pieces sits genuine period stock: 18th century furniture, architectural libraries and restoration pieces that suit heritage homes and considered interiors alike. Because appointments are recommended, a visit tends to feel more like a private consultation than a quick browse, which is well suited to anyone furnishing a period home, sourcing a statement fireplace, or simply wanting to see quality English antiques up close. It's part of South Melbourne's small cluster of antique dealers on and around Clarendon Street, where a few long-running specialists keep good company with one another.