of participating in the re-design process. The price for a custom re-designed piece is subjective to the materials and elements used to create the final product. The truth is that you can expect to pay the same or less for a custom piece made by me than through a large retail store. My pieces are 100% sustainable design because every element I use to make a piece is recycled, handcrafted or organic. By owning a re-designed item, you are becoming part of a movement with a greater purpose...to reuse what already exists.” In my case, the “stodgy” old piece was a parlor chair that brings back recollections of a sweet old great-aunt. With 5 ½ yards of fabric, a trusted refurbisher, and a couple of hundred bucks, my young son’s bedroom will be finished, with a funky, one of a kind reading space that is current, sentimental, and cannot be duplicated. TIPS FOR TRANSFORMING OLD TREASURES 1) Look for sturdiness. Old pieces are usually constructed of solid wood…newer pieces are usually flimsier. 2) Find a resource whose work you admire. You’ll feel more comfortable working with someone who can translate your ideas to fabric recommendations, etc. 3) Be an active participant. An experienced refurbisher will walk you through the process, but it never hurts to pull magazine pictures and have some measurements ready before springing on a piece. v Resources Gypsy in Stilettos 210.322.8584 www.gypsyinstilettos.com
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Urban Home Austin – San Antonio
Red 830.990.0700
www.redinfred.com
Spruce 512.454.8181
www.spruceaustin.com
www.urbanhomemagazine.com
www.dawnhearn.com Dawn F. Hearn, ASID 512.930.0250 Texas Registered Interior Designer #9501
• New Construction • Remodeling • Furnishings
• Accessories • Consultation • Space Planning