A year of planning and extensive remodeling came together Friday morning when owner Marilyn Nelson opened the doors to Collectibles on Cole.

The much-anticipated debut at the corner of Cole Street and Initial Avenue brought life to the building that many recall as J.C. Penney and most recently served as an antique mall.

Little remains of the original building, as Nelson directed a from-the-ground-up renovation of the building, which now offers 4,500 square feet of retail space.

Anyone who has wandered through downtown has noticed the outside has been covered with sandstone, the building’s now-dominant feature. The interior was gutted and refinished, including installation of a full second floor; previously, the upstairs was limited to just half the building.

Collectibles on Cole has rented space to more than a dozen vendors. Some offer antique glass and others vintage clothing; there are collectable stuffed animals and one man’s collection of memorabilia from travels to the Orient.

Additionally, the store will feature a deli specializing in healthy dining choices and a tearoom that will serve customers by reservation only. Neither is quite ready yet; the deli will begin serving Thursday. There are small commercial spaces available in the rear of the building for a hair salon and tanning operation.

The entire store will be managed by Mary Beth Vadney, who also will sell her homemade fudge from a small display case at the front of the store.

Collectables on Cole will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. six days a week, closed on Mondays. The store can be reached at 360-825-3134.