What's New is Old Again

Much like human beings, every chair speaks its own language -- utilizing its own unique vocabulary. When a client surfaced two chairs seeking our services, we noticed that these pieces were speaking in such hushed, mumbled tones that it was easy to overlook them for other pieces in the room. While the frames were structurally sound, the springs in the seats were broken. We sunk straight to the bottom when sitting in either of the chairs. There didn't seem to be anything redeeming about these chairs save the sensual curve of the front legs which was covered with a drab factory applied finish. The client wanted them to be totally refurbished from the frame up with the end goal of creating two pieces that looked ancient and sumptuous.

Everything Starts with a Good Foundation

After thoroughly inspecting the frame for any necessary repairs, we concentrated on creating a solid foundation upon which to sit. We pride ourselves in building an 8-way hand-tied spring base that results in all the individual springs moving as a single unit. This requires extra time and effort but the overall "sit" of the chair is far superior. Anything less pales by comparison.

Fabric is the Key

We were able to source a fabric that our client loved that fulfilled all of her desires; it was an antiqued fabric so it already looked old and worn, it was in the correct color palette for her room and it had a very supple hand. The challenge for us was in the tufted back. The client wanted a back that was filled with luxurious tufting. The pattern of the fabric had an overall diamond shape with smaller diamonds making up larger ones. After studying the fabric and chair frame, we calculated the perfect dimensions for the tufting pattern and filled the back with 27 tufts. The pattern was so carefully worked out that the tufts across the top and bottom of the back emphasize and preserve the solid black line that is prevalent in the pattern. The play of light across the back is mesmerizing, adds dimension by emphasizing the fabric and the curve of the back and aids to that "aged" effect the client was seeking.

Frame the Finish

The drab frames were crying for a special treatment but one that would also compliment the fabric and meet the client's wishes. The idea of gilding the frame came straight out of the blue but was the perfect solution. We presented the idea to our client and her immediate approval told us we had found the perfect finish. A traditional guild treatment of a red underlay would not be appropriate here as the colors in the fabric were very muted. Instead we painted a terra cotta enamel on the legs and applied the gold leaf over the muted base color. To add more age to the chair, we selectively rubbed some of the gilding off the frame in areas that would normally see wear. Several layers of ochre tinted varnish were applied to tone down the brightness of the leaf and provide a hard protective finish to a delicate looking frame.

What's New is Old Again!

These once quiet and shy chairs are now sparkling beauties that invite one to sit down and have a wonderful conversation. They look regal yet approachable. The velvety hand of the chenille is complimented by the stability of the seat and luxurious tufting of the back. The tone of the gilded frame softly compliments the antiqued fabric by supporting it without overpowering. Double welting completes the union of frame and fabric. The chairs now have a timeless beauty that is readily noticed yet not overwhelming. It's the perfect dialogue for fabric, frame, setting and client!