by pam kueber on February 8, 2009
Since I wrote this post so long ago – here it is again, in case you’ve never seen these! Originally published Nov. 24, 2007
Okay, I want a humongous TV just like the next person, but frankly, I think I want one of these awesome Predicta models more. These are faithful reproductions — not exact, but faithful — of the original Philco Predictas and there are 8 models — 4 tabletop, 4 on integrated bases. Telstar, the company that makes them, uses all-new parts, these are state-of-today’s art TVs.
I’m personally partial to the Holiday tabletop model, which is pictured here. The thought of lounging in bed… taking a pretend sick day when it’s all cold and snowy outside… and watching reruns of the Colbert Report (don’t you think he looks like a 50s guy, with that hair?) on my own little Predicta… ah, what bliss. Website: Predicta.com
by pam kueber on January 31, 2009
Are you looking for mid century art for a large wall space? How about these panels by Alexander Girard – who is widely considered the greatest colorist and textile designer of all time — and which have just been reissued. Combine all six 14″ x 14″ panels – and you will have quite a dramatic display for your 50s 60s or 70s living room, office or den. And, the wood for the pieces is formaldehyde-free – no off-gassing, folks. Looks like pricing is generally $89/panel at various online retailers.
Heck yeah there is more…
by pam kueber on December 12, 2008
Some of the bricks on Nancy’s midcentury fireplace are discolored…the spotting almost looks like burns, she says. She has original photos of the 1950s study – says that the color change has occurred over time…and that it does not look good.
Does anyone know what may be causing this? Is there a way to clean the bricks? Or should Nancy paint over the whole installation? There is painted brickwork in other parts of the house… What do you think, readers?
Related posts:
Above – Grasscloth in Pam’s living room. Perhaps add this to Nancy’s husband’s den as well?
by pam kueber on November 26, 2008
My basic goal right now in life is to know-all, see-all when it comes to mainstreet middle class mid century modern. So imagine my surprise and delight to bump into this source for new-old-stock mint-in-box rotary dial telephones — the real deal — while I was on a separate, very silly quest.
Heck yeah there is more…
by pam kueber on October 29, 2008
Our good friend Sue recently surprised her husband Pete with a weekend at Field Farm, a mid century home turned boutique B&B in nearby Williamstown, Mass. Pete was turning 50 – so I guess “mid century” was the theme! David and I went up to visit and of course, went gaga over the place, a 1948 Bauhaus-inspired masterpiece with a separate guest house, Folly Farm, which is its own amazing story. Heck yeah there is more…
by pam kueber on October 18, 2008
You have to admit that these retro fireplaces — all still made by Malm and for sale brand-new today — are sexy as can be. I’ve shown some once before, but with winter ahead – it’s time to adjust the thermostat.
These fireplaces are all so very ski bunny… you need a Flokati rug and Irish Coffee and you’re all set. I want I want I want. But I think I also need a cozy A-frame to put them in. Or…perhaps this is another reason to finish the attic, which needs its own heat source?!
If you are on a budget, you can hunt for used fireplaces like these by searching both “Preway” and “Malm” on c*list. There seem to be a fair number of Preway’s out there. Orange was the hot color…and they seem to go for about $150-$250.
The thing about the new Malm’s, though, is that they are…well, new. You have a much greater selection of shapes and many more colors to choose from. In addition, you can get them with gas logs – which is very convenient for creating mood – and warmth – instantly.
I love many of the current Malm models – up through the 70s and 80s styles, too.
They make such an architectural statement. But because of this, I do tend to see them in a room with pared down detailing. Set the fireplace in a useful, focal area, on nice tiles, and let the fireplace be the attention-grabber.
Here’s the link to Malm – happy shopping!
Click thru to the next page for the complete gallery of 14 Malm fireplace models: Heck yeah there is more…
by pam kueber on October 16, 2008
Look, Jenn Ski has pecky cypress in her new home office! She also recently found a totally groovy lime green kitchen/dining room table and chairs that she uses there — the peaches!
Be sure to check out our growing Pecky Cypress archive – long live Pecky Cypress!:
by pam kueber on September 11, 2008
Anita in Northern California has the bug something fearsome:
Hi – I stopped by the Goodwill store here in Manteca this afternoon in hopes of finding a vintage lampshade. But instead I stumbled upon this 1962 Delmonico Stereo Console unit in perfect condition! It was $49.50 and I had to buy it. We just brought it in and plugged it in, the stereo works, sounds good, the turntable works. The photos do not show true color, the speakers are more of a buttery yellow, the inside wood is maple and the whole cabinet is perfect. The paperwork was all with it along with a warranty card that was filled out by the purchaser on 10-30-62 in Vallejo (not sure you can read it in the photo). Anyway, it’s very groovy and a much better addition to our home than a vintage lampshade! Anita
Anita’s friend Ron, who she copied on the email, also pointed out:
Wow. I see the tuner even has a short wave band!
by pam kueber on July 26, 2008
Hello! I just wanted to take a moment to congratulate you on a fabulous website! Very informative and groovy to boot! I was looking at your catch all page of retro things in your home to answer all our ?’s but one thing I have had trouble figuring out isn’t on that list.
Have you ever come across info for the Nutone Home Communication Systems?
Heck yeah there is more…
by Pam Kueber on March 7, 2008
Sorry that my posting has been erratic this week. I’m in Holland, on my “real job” and it’s been a crazy week. This is a post that I’ve wanted to do for a while – spotlighting the awesome “door jewelry” often seen in postwar homes. And the regular jewelry, too!
I’ve been at a number of estate sales where the door handles were really special – kind of streamlined but modern too. In my own home, I have plainer handles, but they quite suit the place. I even prefer the tarnished worn handles to the bright shiny
new ones in a few places. The patina makes them even more special.
The authentic vintage door sets at LAHardware cost $110 the last time I checked. If you keep an eagle eye at estate sales and ebay you can get them for less.
