Beloved items from the North
Secondhand shopping is like a wonderful journey into the past, where every piece tells its own story. In a world that's constantly accelerating, pre-loved treasures offer a moment of pause – they're full of character. They're a statement of style and individuality. In Lübeck, there are now several shops and online boutiques that, through their work, are setting an example for conscious consumption.
Among these is Loppis at Große Burgstraße 25. For Lübeck, ZWISCHENZEILEN Daria Schulz, tells me how a pure hobby became a business to which she and her partner and Loppis partner, Frank, devote almost all their time and love.
The magic of new beginnings
Daria and Frank have fulfilled a dream with their secondhand shop. Professionally, they originally come from completely different fields: Daria is a music therapist, and Frank worked for a well-known shipping company in Lübeck for many years. The idea of venturing into new territory, reinventing themselves in midlife, and becoming self-employed with modern Scandinavian fashion and decorative items didn't come overnight. It matured steadily and was nurtured particularly in Sweden, where the couple regularly experienced the local flea market culture. "Loppis" is the Swedish word for flea market, and they are incredibly popular there. Especially on weekends, entire families flock to markets, which are often held in barns and garages, but also frequently outdoors in gardens or meadows. People enjoy a cup of coffee – another true passion in Sweden – browse at their leisure for things that sometimes bring joy only to their own hearts, and rejoice over a serendipitous find.
The whole world is full of things, so it's necessary that someone finds them.
Astrid Lindgren
Follow your heart
The premises on Große Burgstraße were another such serendipitous find that immediately felt right. "Our gut feeling told us this was the perfect place for us," Daria recalls. There are streets in the old town that are frequented by far more strolling people. But Große Burgstraße exuded something truly special. And their success proves them right: since opening in May 2024, the business has become established and enjoys a growing clientele and an appreciative neighborhood. The latter is particularly important to them. They value the community on the street and already feel a real sense of belonging there. We, too, have already explored this part of the old town for Lübeck ZWISCHENZEILEN .
Lagom: The perfect balance
The Scandinavian lifestyle includes the principle of * Lagom *. This Swedish term means "not too much and not too little" or "just enough" and describes a balanced life with a focus on a sustainable way of living. It is closely linked to the values and traditions of our northern neighbors. Mindful interaction with others, the ability to listen well, and not constantly complaining are also part of this impressive approach.
Daria could easily be mistaken for a Swede. She radiates that same warm and serene spirit. Everyone should find something they like at Loppis and can take their time browsing and trying things on. "It's also very important to us to offer quality at affordable prices," says Daria. The selection includes high-quality Scandinavian labels like noa noa and gudrun sjöden . Loppis fans also appreciate the hand-picked decorative items such as ceramics, candle holders, and wooden kitchenware, which are easy on the wallet. Furthermore, there's a collaboration with " Deernskram ." Behind this name are two women who organize flea market events for secondhand fashion and accessories in Lübeck and the surrounding area. Loppis now permanently features unique pieces from Deernskram, much to the delight of the ever-growing Deernskram community.
The Art of Discovery at Loppis
The magic of the unplanned is what makes Loppis truly special. For example, I was surprised during my visit by a print of my favorite painter, Marc Chagall. At Loppis, you'll also find art prints and small watercolors and paintings, mostly from Denmark. Drawing is a popular pastime there, a way to creatively fill the relatively long and dark days of autumn and winter indoors. People in Northern Europe are true free spirits, says Daria. They like to experiment and don't always strive for perfection. This is reflected in their creative design. Daria and Frank find the best pieces on their travels, visiting small galleries and workshops.
"The best things in life are found while you are looking for something completely different."
Lawrence Block
Nomen est omen in Lübeck
The name Daria, by the way, comes from Polish and means "gift." It derives from the Slavic word "dar," which also means "gift" or "offering." What does that have to do with Loppis? For me, it's obvious. Daria's name perfectly reflects her passion for passing on special secondhand treasures at Loppis. In doing so, she gives herself and us a gift every day. I recommend checking out the Loppis Instagram channel . The owners regularly showcase individual items there. I ended up leaving Loppis with a "Snowball" tealight holder from the traditional glass manufacturer Kosta Boda, which I hadn't realized I desperately needed!
