I’m delighted to share the incredible journey I recently embarked on with a truly unique bespoke commission. This one was particularly special, as it held deep sentimental value for my lovely client.
It all started when my client approached me with a challenge like no other: a massive, imposing winged armchair that had been in her family for generations. Dubbed “The Beast” due to its size and weight, this chair had seen better days. The dated and faded tan leather no longer did justice to its grandeur. But, oh, the stories it could tell!
My client’s late father-in-law cherished this chair, and it was an integral part of her family’s history. As we moved it into my workshop and it took up most of the space on the workbench, it instantly captured my attention. I knew this was going to be an exceptional restoration journey, and I was keen to bring this magnificent piece back to life.
Now, let me tell you about my client – she’s a vibrant soul who absolutely adores colours. So, together, we embarked on a creative adventure. She chose a soft green fabric for the main upholstery, and we decided to add a pop of joy with bright sunflower yellow piping as a delightful contrast. This was just the beginning of infusing love, warmth, and personal touches into the chair.
You see, my client’s late husband, whom she dearly missed, had a profound love for their garden, especially during the early spring when the flowers burst into life. To commemorate his memory, we decided to incorporate his favourite flowers into the design. Clusters of daffodils, clumps of snowdrops, and delicate buttery yellow crocus were meticulously machine-embroidered onto the sides of the chair. These subtle yet meaningful elements added a layer of sentimentality that made this restoration truly exceptional.
But there was more! My client was also celebrating the arrival of her second grand-daughter, Maeve, whose name carries a magical charm from Irish folklore as the Queen of the Fairies. We decided to capture this enchanting essence by adding a delicate machine-embroidered fairy, gently cradling a tiny snail in the palm of her hand. This touch not only celebrated the new life that had come into the family but also added a whimsical and ethereal element to the chair’s story.
The transformation was nothing short of remarkable. What was once a very masculine-looking chair now became a colourful and comfortable masterpiece, fittingly finding its place in the library – a cherished addition to the family’s space. The chair’s reinvention had preserved its history while breathing new life into it, making it a timeless piece with a heart-warming tale.
This bespoke commission is a testament to the power of blending creativity, sentimentality, and craftsmanship. I couldn’t be prouder of the final result, and my client was overjoyed with the chair’s new identity.
Thank you so very much for the gorgeous chair. It is extremely comfy now and much admired. It’s a handsome chair which has a new lease of life.
I’m truly grateful for being part of this heart-warming journey, turning “The Beast” into a bespoke beauty, a cherished piece of furniture that will be enjoyed for many more years to come. Perhaps, one day, it will become a treasured heirloom, continuing to hold the memories and love of generations to come.
If this story has inspired you to transform an ugly piece of furniture that you have inherited, but don’t really like then please do get in touch. I’d love to have a chat and hear your thoughts.
