RESTORED FAMILY HEIRLOOMS
Our house is filled with family treasures. We have purchased new furniture over the years as well, but I really enjoy showcasing what’s been passed down. I love the history and the quality of the older pieces is something that’s hard to find today.
I’ve had these two side chairs that were made by my grandfather (on my Mom’s side). He had a successful furniture upholstery business in Chicago and was a master craftsman. He made these chairs as a wedding gift to my parents in 1950. He had reupholstered them back in the 70’s, which is obvious when you look at the “before” shot. Gotta love the avocado greens going on here! We kept them in our basement for years. Having them reupholstered just wasn’t a priority at the time. The legs eventually broke because, well… boys. (The basement was often used as a wrestling arena!) So, they’ve been laying on my basement floor forever. I finally decided it was time to give them new life and bring them back upstairs. I researched various places in the Chicago area to have them restored. I wanted to make sure they were in the hands of professionals who knew and appreciated these older pieces. I found Time Treasures Restoration and Upholstery in Chicago. It’s a small, family-owned business and they really know their stuff.
I had an idea of what I wanted, so I poured through many fabric books until I found the right look. After a couple of weeks, they were done and I couldn’t be happier with the way they turned out. They were even able to repair and replicate the broken and missing legs! Needless to say, I would definitely recommend Time Treasures to anyone looking to reupholster, or restore furniture.
Now these beauties live in our family room, and the other is in my home office. This was an investment, but I know they will last for years to come and they can continue to be passed down. I love seeing them everyday and I love that they make me think of my grandfather!
Before – Groovy avocado velour stripes circa 1973!
What are some of your treasured family heirlooms?
