Second Time Around

Haverford’s Molly Andrews gives tired furniture renewed life.

BeforeAfterWe all know the benefits of recycling, but the latest green-living buzzword is “upcycling.” And though you won’t find a formal definition in Merriam-Webster (yet), it’s essentially defined as taking something old and reinventing it.

Haverford’s Molly Andrews is putting upcycling into practice as the owner of Chairloom, a booming Internet-based business attracting customers from across the country—all smitten by her talent for giving tired pieces of furniture new life. In simple terms, Andrews takes vintage or antique chairs, ottomans, settees and the like, and reupholsters them. “I started Chairloom three years ago out of my love of vintage and antique upholstered furniture, as well as interesting and unusual textiles,” she says.

Combining these two passions has resulted in some dramatic makeovers. So before you get rid of that old chair you inherited from Aunt Martha, you may want to see what Andrews can do with it.

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A recent client had Andrews re-create the vintage Eames chairs she got from her father with a chic white vinyl that matches her décor. In another instance, a stunning fabric from Brunschwig & Fils’ Sultan of Gujarat line transforms an antique side chair (pictured).

Andrews also searches out her own pieces—or she’ll sell one and work with the client on a makeover. “I look for chairs and pieces of furniture that have interesting shapes and classic, interesting lines,” she says.

While each Chairloom piece is custom designed, there is one common trait: visual impact. “People can’t believe what can be done,” she says.

Call (914) 484-5498, or visit chairloom.com.
 

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