My client and I were busy searching for “vintage” Anthropologie-looking sofas (but at realistic prices).  Luckily, she discovered that her grandmother’s antique sofa was not being used in her mother’s basement and we began a mission to update it for her young family!

Here’s the before photo:

We researched a variety of leathers and fabrics and decided that this mossy green velvet would be durable and maintain the vintage feel of the sofa.  Naturally,  a lot of work needed to be done in order to get it back “in shape” so to speak!  The upholstery company had to re-stuff the cushions and reinforce the frame.

We also elected to strip the wood to its most natural state and give it a lighter stain.  With the dark Victorian-era wood stain applied to the heavily-carved frame, the sofa appeared too “dated” for lack of a better word.  We wanted it to feel vintage but fresh!  Notice, the more subtle color that lets the carving stand out without overpowering the sofa.

Thank you Custom Furniture Works for such an amazing job!!

Here’s the finished product; now it’s time to search for beautiful pillows!

Check out these great options that deserve a corner in you living room (and your heart).

First we have a classic French Bergere chair with an upbeat paisley fabric and it is instantly reborn!

Antwerp Chair - Anthropologie

Who says “caning” spells traditional?  The sleek black lacquer and modern leg profile make this chair unstoppable.

Cane Chair Black - Atom Designs

Barbara Barry’s designs are graceful and effortless.   She works to make furnishings the appropriately muted backdrop to our lives.

Starlet Chair - Barbara Barry Realized by Henredon

This one never gets old for me.  They introduce new colors every year and the fact that it can be a recliner and still look like a Parisian club chair, I absolutely love!

Manhattan Chair/Recliner - Pottery Barn

Houndstooth.  Clean lines.  How can you go wrong with that?

Ryan Chair in Houndstooth - Bernhardt Furniture

Even if this chair wasn’t upholstered in a beautiful velvet, it would still make a great statement.

FL3248 - Vanguard Furniture

The perfect little mod slipper chair, can be redefined with a multitude of fabrics.  Fresh & sleek at the same time.

Abigail Chair - Williams Sonoma Home