Thrux Lawrence
- More than a brand. Written and photographed by
- Jul 1, 2014
- 3 min read
The minute the door closes behind you at Thrux Lawrence, 206 N. Third Street in Coeur d’Alene, there is a sense that a keen eye for style went into everything in view. Vintage billiards table, motorcycles, taxidermy and carefully chosen color all hint at something more than what might be there for purchase. It almost feels like Indiana Jones is going to stride in at any moment and toss out a pile of old photos and spread out some world maps onto a table.
Thrux Lawrence is a gentlemen’s store as well as a crafter of high-quality, hand-sewn messenger bags, totes and backpacks. Owner Tanden Launder also sells a few other memorable pieces in his shop, adorned with all kinds of manly knick-knacks inspired and acquired through his worldly travels. Cool stuff guys like such as old airplane parts, rugged boots, surround classic sewing machines, and rolls of thick leather ready for assembly into rugged gear.
Tanden explains the name Thrux was a word he made up as a child and has always liked it. Lawrence is the name of his first antique purchase – a wildebeest trophy mount from Montana. The combination matched his initials, so Thrux Lawrence stuck with him.
In the back of the retail space is where each numbered piece is assembled, using heavy brass hardware, water-resistant canvas and Horween leather that Launder orders from Chicago.
Each item is collector’s quality, made to last a lifetime. Says Tanden, an avid antique collector, “I’ve always wondered why old stuff I’ve purchased lasts so much longer than things I buy new. They just made it better then.”
Impressed by the quality of older merchandise, Tanden started taking things apart to see how they were made. After studying the design, he created his own, including his signature Paladin Pant. The pants are a lot like a durable cargo pant that Tanden said were perfect during his travels.
While Tanden concedes his designs aren’t for everyone, he says that’s just fine with him.
“What we make is something that is made in Idaho and will be a part of a person’s memories of travel and adventure,” he says, “It’s not just a bag. It will be something that will outlast you and be cherished by a family member after you’re gone.”
It’s not just for guys, either. Plenty of women appreciate the bags for their quality, uniqueness and durability. Thrux Lawrence also makes a great place for women to find something unique for the men in their lives, says Tanden.
The adjoining Bulwark Barber offers haircuts and shaves just like dad used to get, in vintage chairs with Americana art adorning the walls. Old school shaving cream, natural hair brushes and the like are used and sold here along with traditional razors.
With such a talented eye for design, Tanden has also helped to design a local restaurant interior. While he didn’t necessarily know how to make furniture, he said he knew what he wanted to do and found someone help him create it – much like he did with his bag designs.
Even if you don’t need a haircut or a great bag, Tanden says he enjoys having people stop in just to check out the vintage vibe.
Thrux Lawrence
206 North Third Street
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 83814
208.661.3009
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