Retro Renovation

I feel like I’ve been ignoring “traditional” this past while, so today we look at a tried, true and ever-lasting classic: Chintz. Also known as polished cotton, chintz is lightweight yet still has come stiffness - great “hand”. It takes prints very well and is beloved for florals like cabbage roses.
If you are handy with [...]

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Following up on the FAQ regarding Heywood-Wakefield refinishing, Palm Springs Stephan shares his wealth of experience on the issue. Thank you, Stephan!

Heywood Wakefield (HW) furniture has become almost synonymous with Mid Century Modern design, largely because of its simple lines and lack of “fussiness.” The pieces are usually solid birch (no particle board [...]

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We know in our heart of hearts it’s true: These really are more comfy. See the listing in Last Day ebay, above right.

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This St. Louis sectional is a beauty!
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Following the “original” Drexel post (where we also met Troy of Troyland), the wonderful Catherine kindly scanned some precious vintage Drexel advertising to share with other readers. She says:
Here is one of my Drexel Declaration ads that was in the drawer of the dresser that I bought from my Great Grandmother. She had marked [...]

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Welcome to Courtney - a longtime reader but new commenter. She has some insight on Stef’s Asian inspired tables, along with some great photos of her own Ritts set - a classic, dusty-basement foraging find:
Hi Pam,
Thought I would comment on the [...]

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Aren’t these samples of vintage Kroehler nylon upholstery fabrics the greatest? Lots of good ideas here, regarding both design and colors to look to replicate. These are all currently listed on ebay.

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Palm Springs Stephan provides our ebay pick of the day. Table and chairs listed separately:

I saw this on eBay today while searching for Heywood Wakefield desks and nightstands. The seller — JWB213 — is a very active HW dealer. I have bought several pieces from him. He is EXCELLENT to deal with! Packs [...]

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Magbot writes:
Pam, I’ve been following your saga since you first found your kitchen cabinets (can’t recall how I found out, probably mentioned in some other design blog), and swooning over your gorgeous reno. I fervently hope to someday redo a mid-C ranch as impeccably as you have.
My question: I’ve owned several of the [...]

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Oh it’s so fun to look at the long and low sofas (and sometimes matching chairs) on ebay. Here are one and two currently online. both with original upholstery and matching chairs. The first one could be as late as the 70s or even GASP 80s, but it’s still awesome!

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