The Upstairs Basement is a new staple in the heart of downtown Franklin. In their beautifully restored space located at 425 East Jefferson Street, this charming store offers a curated selection of vintage pieces, cozy apparel and distinctive gifts, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
The dream for the Upstairs Basement was born out of a passion for vintage finds and small businesses in Franklin. “My brother, Chan Cornett, and I discussed our shared passion for finding cool, vintage items, and his interest in buying a commercial building in Franklin as an investment, and the idea for the Upstairs Basement was born,” says Owner Laney Cornett.
This brother-sister duo closed on their unique, homey space on Jefferson Street in September 2023. With just one month to renovate the space, bring in vendors and find their own unique items to showcase, the Upstairs Basement opened in October 2023, just in time for Franklin’s Vintage Fest.
Cornett loves treasure hunting and it’s even more exciting now that she gets to share her finds with shoppers. She says she “loves when customers come in and find something unique they just can’t live without.” She also enjoys helping customers find the perfect, unique gift for their loved ones. The Upstairs Basement has a wide variety of merchandise, so you never know what you’ll find. From vintage salt and pepper shakers to vintage rock T-shirts, they have something for everyone.
Cornett feels thankful to grow her small business in Franklin and have her brother as her business partner. “Already a successful business owner of Cornett Roofing, I couldn’t ask for a better mentor in learning how to run a business,” Cornett says. Chan encouraged her throughout the process with his expertise and foresight.
The Upstairs Basement is part of the East Jefferson Street shopping district in downtown Franklin. Cornett feels fortunate to be in a great location on Jefferson Street along with other established shops like FrenChic, Farm Girl Mercantile, Salvage Sisters, Thanks for the Thyme, Hoosier Cupboard, The Grove – Botany Boutique, and Woven Co. Candles. Having the support of shop owners, as well as Discover Downtown when they host Shop the Block the first Friday of every month, makes all the difference. The collaboration is what makes Franklin the perfect place to open her first store successfully.
Cornett hopes to continue to expand the inventory and diversity of the Upstairs Basement. On the east end of Jefferson Street near plenty of public parking, the Upstairs Basement is the perfect place to start a stroll through Franklin and visit each shop in the shopping district in one big loop. These shops offer a unique shopping experience, as shoppers can stroll from one unique historical building to the next. Some of these stops are historical homes, and one was once the Franklin Train Station.
Next time you’re looking for the perfect vintage piece or a gift that is as unique and special as your loved one, stop by the Upstairs Basement, where you’ll be greeted by a kind and helpful staff.
