BY AMANDA DUDEK
New Classics
Stunning interior design with a timeless style When Andrea Siwiec moved into her Georgian Colonial, she never imagined her journey to turn the house into a home for her family would draw such enthusiastic attention on social media. Nestled in one of Buffalo’s Olmsted Parkways, Andrea’s more than 100-year-old house had “great bones” but needed what she called “a major refresh.” So, the creative mother of three teenage boys began an extensive home makeover. Three floors and over 6,000 square feet later, Andrea was surprised to find her renovations had inspired over 40,000 followers. “Traditional with a touch of glam”—Andrea’s signature style—found its voice in her first apartment. “I didn’t have a big budget, but I still wanted to create a designer look. I scoured design and décor magazines and books for inspiration and did what I could.” Although not a professional designer, self-taught natural Andrea has always had an eye for decorating and the passion to go with it. The opportunity to transform the classic, three-story Georgian was an exciting challenge.
“We started restoration work on the first floor and worked our way down to the basement. It took us almost two years to complete the project. We were finally ready to start entertaining again, which we do often, then COVID hit.” More time at home prompted Andrea to share more photos of her gorgeously finished rooms, and suddenly a following sprang up on her Instagram. Her account is called Acquired by Andrea, a nod to a key component of her design: acquiring classic pieces. “My home is filled with antiques and vintage pieces. I’d much rather buy an heirloomquality item for my home over a new one. Antiques have history, soul and tell a story. I enjoy going to local antique galleries, estate sales, flea markets, and consignment shops to find one-of-a-kind pieces for my home. There are so many other wonderful and unexpected sources for finding unique and beautiful pieces, such as FB Marketplace and thrift stores.” One of her favorite finds? An antique crystal chandelier which hangs so naturally above her dining room table people think it was original to the house. THEHOMEPUBLICATIONS.COM |Buffalo 13
