Don't get me wrong...usually there's nothing wrong with the piece in it's original form, or it may be that it was once great but is becoming a little tattered. Either way if it is a sentimental piece, family heirloom, or just an old favorite, never be afraid to revamp and refresh it.
I remember when I first moved into my home at the river. Like any young twenty-something I was full of champagne taste on a beer budget, so I had to get creative. For weeks I searched thrift shops, EBay, Craigslist, and online auctions.
Finally I found this pair of caned barrel-back chairs. I looked past the chipped cream paint and the dirty mauve fabric on the seats, and loaded them up in my car. When I got the chairs home and began cleaning them up, I realized not only was all the caning intact, but the legs had great carvings and details.
I stripped the old paint off the chairs and repainted them in a shiny, black lacquer. I also replaced the dated, stained mauve fabric with a fun, vintage botanical print. For less than $100, I've got a great pair of matching chairs...full of character and detail. They're truly my creation - which I love because I'm not going to see them in someone else's home!
It is just like last week when I went over to my friend Jackie's after work...We started talking and decided to rearrange and redecorate her den at 8pm. A little before midnight we finally finished, and I do have to admit: her room looked awesome.
The more the wine flowed, the more we got done. I really think they should think about offering me wine at work....I could really get creative with some wine juice! We totally rearranged the entire floor plan and layout, making her room look twice as large and open.
With Jackie's permission I took one overpowering piece out of the room, and yet we brought 5 more pieces into the room! The result was a very happy friend....the only problem is trying to get her to leave the house and hangout now.
I can empathize though...after 8 years in my home, I can honestly say I'm quite content will my little cottage on the river as well. After all, out of my entire portfolio...it's the best reflection of my true self!
John Grainger Hanna is one of the most inspirational designers to date. His ability to pay attention to the little details while simultaneously administering his vision of the overall 'big picture' is what makes him soar above the rest. John is a true talent, and really can turn one man's junk into another's treasure, I've personally witnessed this numerous times. His 'Old South' class and demeanor is just icing on the cake when it comes to the lucrative young designer. To turn that drab piece of furniture or even room of yours into one with a personality that is more developemental and thriving, John is the ONLY person to contact.
ReplyDelete