Altadena Hardware Celebrates Its Grand Re-Opening

Over the weekend, hosted its grand reopening at 849 E. Mariposa Avenue. From Friday and Saturday the store owners officially celebrated their new ownership and remodeling, with further celebration scheduled for Sunday.

The Olandini family, who have lived in Altadena for 25 years, bought the store in July 210 when former owner Don Thomas retired (the store was originally opened in 1916 as a grocery store, The Market Basket, and converted into a hardware store by Thomas’ great grandfather in the 1930s).

This business is a family affair, run by Jim and Paula Orlandi and their sons, Jimmy, 27, and Rob, 24. The family also owns another store, Newland Hardware, in East Los Angeles.

Altadena residents flocked to the store, eager to experience the opening festivities. Popcorn, hotdogs, lemonade, coffee, donuts and licorice were all free to guests of Altadena Hardware, and the store front was peppered with balloons.

Inside, guests could spin a prize wheel for their chance to win various prizes (hats, water bottles, Frisbees). Other larger prizes were also up for grabs, including a barbecue and patio set. Customers also received 20 perecent off whatever they could fit in one of the recyclable bags Altadena Hardware was also giving away.

On Friday, the owners said about 340 shoppers came out, and on Saturday, the store was still abuzz with excitement and long lines.

Richie Polino, a local painter, commented: “I’m always looking for a good deal, and this store seems to have them.”

Jimmy Orlandini said he is excited to be working with his parents and brother, and is happy the store is only about two minutes from his home.

He said he believes his store can offer competitive prices compared to some of the larger chain stores, as well as guidance for people looking for direction on whatever projects they are working on.

“We know where everything is in the store, we know how to install everything in the store; everyone that comes in here gets a hand whether they want it or not. We’ll help with any projects you have,” Orlandini said.

In addition to selling hardware and supplies, Altadena Hardware offers services such as screen creation and repair, window repair, key-making, re-keying, shade cutting and glass gutting.

Altadena Hardware is now open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Sundays.