Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Living Archive?
Living Archive by Agathus is a curated collection of vintage, antique, one-of-a-kind, artist-made and newly produced objects for the home.
Where are you located?
Our showroom is located at 2972 Century Place, Unit D, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 and is open by appointment only. Email orders@agathus.com to schedule a visit and confirm that a specific piece is available to view.
Are all Living Archive products vintage or antique?
No. The collection includes vintage, antique, found, one-of-a-kind, artist-made, handmade, newly manufactured and made-to-order pieces. Please note that return status and in-stock status or lead time will vary depending on the product category.
What condition are vintage, antique, or found pieces in?
They have lived, and items may have patina, oxidation, wear, old repairs, crazing, fading and/or irregularity. Photographs show the actual item and form part of the description. While we do not separately catalogue every minor mark, patina variation or ordinary sign of age that is visible in the photographs or inherent in a vintage, antique, or pre-owned object, we do disclose known material issues that significantly affect stability, function, safety, completeness, attribution or a substantial aspect of appearance or value and are not reasonably apparent from the photographs.
How are floor models and display items treated?
Floor Model / Display describes how an item was displayed or handled. It does not determine whether the item is new, vintage, previously owned or artist-consigned, and our showroom will often contain a mix at any given time. The underlying product category determines the return and refund policy.
Are handmade and natural-material products identical to the photographs?
No two pieces of wood, stone, metal, glass, ceramic, textile or hand-applied finish are exactly alike. Variation in grain, veining, tone, texture, glaze, dimensions, pattern placement and fabrication marks is inherent to the material or process and is not a defect unless the item is materially inconsistent with its description.
Are product dimensions exact?
We measure as accurately as reasonably possible. Vintage, handmade, upholstered, soft and irregularly shaped goods may vary slightly. Contact us before purchasing if an exact measurement is critical for fit, access, installation or placement.
What items can be returned?
Only items expressly identified as Return Eligible may be returned. Please see our Returns, Refunds & Cancellations Policy.
What items are final sale?
Everything not expressly identified as Return Eligible is final sale. This includes vintage and previously owned goods; artwork and one-of-a-kind objects; furniture, lighting, rugs, mirrors, oversized and freight items; custom, made-to-order and special-order products; trade purchases; and floor-model, display, sale, clearance or other merchandise marked Final Sale.
Who pays return shipping?
For an eligible voluntary return, the customer arranges and pays return shipping and bears the risk until the return is received and inspected. An approved return may also be brought to the Costa Mesa showroom on a case-by-case basis and by appointment only.
What if a Final Sale item arrives damaged or materially different from the description?
Final sale does not mean no recourse. Please contact us promptly, and we will review the documentation and work in good faith toward an appropriate resolution, which may include a carrier claim, replacement parts, a price adjustment, return authorization, store credit or refund, depending on the circumstances.
How are furniture and oversized items delivered?
Depending on the product and destination, delivery may be by common carrier, curbside, or white glove. The purchased service level will be identified in the quote, checkout or delivery confirmation.
What does white-glove delivery include?
Where offered, it generally includes a two-person team, room placement, ordinary unpacking and removal of ordinary packaging. It does not include mounting, hardwiring, plumbing, anchoring, hoisting, construction, removal of existing furniture or extraordinary crate disposal unless expressly included.
Will the item fit through my door?
Please measure before ordering. Compare the item and packaged dimensions against every doorway, gate, hallway, stairwell, elevator, landing, turn and intended placement. We cannot accept a return because a piece does not fit.
Is local pickup available?
Yes, where offered. Pickup is free and by appointment after you receive a Ready for Pickup notice. Bring identification, a suitable vehicle, protective materials, straps and adequate labor.
Do you ship internationally?
We do not currently offer direct international shipping. With advance approval, we may deliver to a U.S.-based freight forwarder or receiving warehouse selected by the customer.
Does a Living Archive purchase include Agathus Studios design services?
No. A retail purchase does not include space planning, product selection, installation supervision, procurement management, styling or other professional design services.
