reclaimed – 622 press | LETTERPRESS GOODS MADE BY HAND

I like old houses. I love their character and the way the spaces work together. I love their quirks and their potential. Realizing that I may not get to purchase an old charmer right away, I’ve been collecting ways to add a little character to any space.

First up: that beautiful molding. That 8-inch tall, expensive molding. If you’re not up for removing all your old trim or new trim just isn’t in your budget, try this brilliant idea from The House of Smiths: simply add a small piece of molding above your original trim, paint the wall and both pieces of trim the same color, and voila! Fabulous chunky baseboards without the price tag.

Exposed brick can add warmth along with character to any room. No original chimney to expose? No worries. A company called Brick-it offers real vintage bricks cut into thin slices, along with an easy installation system. My favorite is this multicolor specimen reclaimed from a building in Milwaukee.

One of the things I love most about older homes are the elegant details. An easy way to add elegance in a big way that doesn’t impact your house’s footprint is to simply look up. Your ceiling can be ignored or become a showcase—it’s up to you. Is your style formal and elegant? A decorative molding treatment like the one above might be for you. More cottage casual? Try faux wood beams. The possibilities are endless!

Since it’s been almost a year since we bought new furniture for our apartment, I thought I’d finally get around to shopping for the miscellaneous pieces we still need — a coffee table and an accent chair or two. This time instead of hitting the huge department stores, I thought I’d start out looking for something made by a real person. I still haven’t decided on anything, but I thought I’d share the shops that are at the top of my list:

Framework Designs coffee table (photo courtesy of Framework Design) — Framework Design's "coffee" table (photo courtesy of Framework Design)

This stunning modern coffee table from Framework Design is as clever as it is beautiful. The indented squares spell out”coffee!” in braille.

: Lunar Lounge Design

Lunar Lounge Design, while mostly out of my price range, has a fantastic collection of mid-century modern tables and seating that owners Colin and Jonathan make to order. Love their innovative designs and fab color choices.

On the other end of the spectrum are these gorgeous natural wood tables from Michael Arras. Each one is completely unique and custom made of organic oval discs finished with your choice of stain.

Revival Home Goods Petite Paisley Chair — Revival Home Goods' Petite Paisley Chair

I’m also loving the fab recovered chairs over at Revival Home Goods. Joan is an avid antique store shopper who finds pieces with great bones and gives them an update. I’m a sucker for all things paisly so this black chair is definately on the short list!

Last but absolutely not least: dust*furniture. Their complete disregard for the way furniture “should” be results in gorgeous pieces worthy of Dr. Seuss himself!

Tag: reclaimed

This Old House

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