Reuse. Rehabilitate. Restore. Architectural salvage and repurposed pieces for the home.
Digging for dusty basement treasures in Bay Ridge estate sale house dawn till dusk. Con Ed still hasn’t responded to commercial application, so chances are the renovation on the store won’t start this weekend as planned. No electricity means no lights or heat. Emilia, the sole employee, was supposed to start on Monday and her schedule has already been switched.
So yeah, that’s about it. Have a nice weekend!
Yesterday I got back into the Bay Ridge estate sale house to check out some more inventory. I noticed an abundance in the chair department. There aren’t many couches or love seats that were salvageable but this home definitely didn’t lack places to sit.
Please don’t ask prices just yet. The plan is to get everything photographed, take notes and then price accordingly. Thanks for your patience!
Don’t forget to stop by! The sale is January 24th, 25th and 26th. Address to be announced. Add yourself to the Facebook event page or subscribe over on the right hand sidebar for updates.
The previous report on the store front was that I couldn’t even lift the gate to get in. Well, woo-hoo, I got in!
The shop’s last incarnation was a tattoo and piercing parlor. They seem to have had several stations. The walls and half walls will come down making it a larger open space. Apart from some wall demolition, the renovation needed seems pretty straightforward. Perhaps because I’m not planning on going crazy as it’s a salvage shop instead of a fancy schmancy business or perhaps because I’ve seen a lot worse. This will be easy breezy.
Better-than-iPhone pics to come in the following days. Sorry ’bout that, old mates.
Ruh-roh. Looks like the Reclaimed Home store is a reality now. Due to my impatience and lack of planning and foresight, the lease was signed yesterday and the place is mine!
Now what? Well,considering the fact that I couldn’t open the gate because I was trying to lift it from the bottom instead of using the pulley (never had a storefront before), I haven’t even been inside since I viewed it the one time a month ago. I’m going away this weekend so looks like it’s Monday the earliest.
Then? Renovations! The place needs work. The intention is to make it clean and comfortable. It doesn’t need to be all fancy schmancy since it’s a salvage shop. Hey, it will have heat and lights which is more than some of these other places have.
Hopefully, I can start collecting inventory while renovating. I think the store will be opening by early Spring but then again, I thought my Rockaway house would be finished in months. Ha!
So, that’s it. As of Tuesday, this blog is all about store renovations and inventory. And DIY.
Raise your hand if you have cats. Raise both hands if you have dogs and cats. Now, be honest. How many of you have dogs who help themselves to treats from the litter box? Yeah, you know what I’m talking about! You need to get yourself a dog-proof litter box.
First, my apologies for the terrible iPhone pics. I’m lazy. Secondly, I’m also too lazy to actually finish this project so what you’re looking at is merely a piece of furniture with a hole cut into it. Ideally, the interior would be protected against accidents, because as Elvis says “Accidents will happen”.
We bought the piece at a local yard sale already painted. This is a simple DIY but for those of you even lazier than myself or not skilled with power tools, we will definitely be selling litter box furniture once the shop opens this Spring.
First choose the entry way. Make sure it’s high enough so the litter box inside doesn’t block it.
Cut 4 starter holes. They definitely don’t have to be as large as the ones in the photo. We did that to get rounded edges.
The tool of choice is a jigsaw. We found it difficult to keep a straight line so we switched off between the jigsaw and another tool.
The Makita multi-tool is a must have for any DIY geek (or even a real contractor). It’s just fun. Trust me.
This particular piece has 2 doors in the front so the litterbox can be placed and removed easily. Notice how our dog is already looking for some goodies. The cats can enter through the side hole but the dog can’t. Ha!
Again, inside and hole should be painted and/or sealed. Don’t be like us. Take it that extra step.
One can never have too many pallet ideas. The challenge is actually collecting them, separating the wood and building something. Also, please be aware of safety issues as some pallets are treated with chemicals.
Reclaimed Home has landed an estate sale in Bay Ridge! The home belonged to an older fellow whom had been living there for quite some time and yes, my friends, he was a hoarder! The date has been pushed back about three times now, but this new one seems to be solid, so we’re making the “Save the date” announcement. Fingers crossed, we’re holding this baby on January 24th, 25th and 26th. Please add your name to the mailing list over there on the right side bar or follow us on Facebook or Twitter for updates.
I went to take pictures yesterday and only got through 3 rooms of the 3 story house. It’s chock full of tschotkes plus Victorian through Mid Century furniture, artwork, collectibles and various oddities.
He liked his clocks and mirrors. Plenty of those! Some of the artwork is nothing special but the antique frames are pretty awesome. A good bit of the artwork is actually pretty special too and I didn’t even get around to see all of it yet.
The wingback chair is in perfect condition after removing the slipcover. Yes, that’s a rotary phone and there are about 20 more just like it in the house!
I wasn’t kidding when I said “hoarder”. Get that date on your calendar ASAP!
Happy New Year, everyone! And we have a new mayor! Yay!
Sometimes I take New Year’s Day off to do something fun, like jump in the Atlantic. Last year we crashed the car. That wasn’t fun. This year the hubby and I just stayed in to work on some home repairs.
We finally got a step closer to finishing the recycled door wainscoting and wall in the kitty fire corner. Still needs some caulking and baseboard. Notice I didn’t see that we “finished it”.
It wasn’t our intention to match the original wainscoting on the right exactly. Had we wanted to do that, we would have searched for that specific style in the local salvage shops. If all else failed, we could have reproduced the lines as was done when we repaired some panels. But I wanted to use those doors! So, it doesn’t match, but I love the idea that we got to recycle those doors that we had no use for.
The blue wall above the wainscot was painted over four years ago. Luckily, the paint was still in the house. Unluckily, it was not from the gallon that went on the walls originally. Oh, I’m sure it would have been fine four years ago, but the fresh coat of touch up doesn’t match the darkened and dirty old paint. Rather than redo the whole room, I’ll just try to match the color better. I’m not even crazy about doing that little bit of extra work.
Hubby took down a crumbling plaster wall in the front foyer, insulated, sheetrocked and added a light and bell while I was painting the wrong color. I guess he wins this round. But guess who has to do the taping (in a few years)? Yeah, I’m the finishing gal.
Another year has passed. As I sit here eating my Chinese food leftovers for breakfast, I’ll share with you my reflections of the year that was 2013.
In January, the U.S. wondered what the hell was going to happen with that whole fiscal cliff nonsense. The crisis was averted and/or the can was kicked down the road until a later date. Big drama from whiney babies.
In February, Chelyabinsk, Russia was rocked by a 10 ton meteor traveling at about 40,000 miles per hour. Although the asteroid caused over a thousand injuries, luckily nobody was killed.
March brought news of two divisive figures in transition. Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez succumbed to cancer after a long political career. Depending on who you’re talking to, he was either a savior or a dictator. The Vatican also saw a new Argentinian Pope when Francis was inaugurated.
April brought tragedy to the U.S. in the form of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil since 9/11. The Boston Marathon bombing brought death, injury and sheer horror, but what played out in the following days was like a bad Hollywood action film.
On May 6th, a kidnapping victim named Amanda Berry managed to escape her captor. Neighbor Charles Ramsey became a hero and internet meme that day. Turned out that three women were being held by Ariel Castro, who later committed suicide in prison. Guess he couldn’t take being held captive.
June brought some great news for gay marriage proponents. The Supreme Court ruled DOMA unconstitutional and at the same time, declined to take a stand on California’s Prop 8.
On July 13th, George Zimmerman was acquitted for second degree murder and manslaughter for the death of 17 year old Trayvon Martin. Although he has yet to kill again, he has been reported to police for domestic abuse and pulling guns on loved ones at least twice since the trial.
Big milestone for world health in August! A malaria vaccine was reported to have shown promising results in clinical trials. The vaccination may be in use as early as 2015.
Remember that whole Obama threatening Syria and Kerry making some off the cuff comment, then Putin taking him up on it thing? Yeah, that was September 2013.
October. Ah, how can we forget the government shutdown? ^ See “big drama from whiney babies” above. Nuff said.
November. Typhoon Haiyan devastates portions of the Philippines, Vietnam and nearby countries, killing multiple thousands of people and leaving some towns and cities completely destroyed.
December. After countless arguments, scare tactics and hiccups, the Affordable Healthcare Act website is up and running for online applications. I believe the deadline, which has been extended multiple times, was December 23rd, but it’s too confusing to be sure.
Since we already covered Thanksgivukah, we’re safe to wish our goyishe friends a very Merry Christmas this year. For those celebrating Festivus today, let’s have an airing of the grievances, shall we?
1. How come there are no honest contractors around? Why don’t any of them take pride in their work?
2. People who leave their shopping carts in the middle of the aisle. WTF? Like you are the only ones in the store?
3. If anyone has a husband who actually listens to them, raise your hand. Yeah, I thought not.
4. Bluetooth. I’m tired of trying to figure out whether people are crazy or talking on the phone. I’m also tired of thinking they are talking to me and responding.
5. Hipster or Hick? I can’t tell the difference. They all have beards and flannel shirts. Hicksters. All of ’em.
6. Speaking of hicks, what’s with the Honey Boo Boos and the Duck Folks? Why do people feel the need to watch the lowest common denominator and then complain when they find out they are racist homophobes? As if it’s surprising.
7. People who keep talking or texting when I say I’m busy or trying to sleep. Get a clue.
8. Chronic complainers. Oh wait….
Well, have a good one! See you on Wednesday!
Courtesy of wickerfurniture, source
* Guest Author: Leslie Mason is a homemaker and garden expert. Leslie enjoys writing, gardening, do-it-yourself projects, and fixing up the house. She is currently renovating her home on her own and her garage with the help of Door Surgeon.
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It can be difficult to look past the rusted plumbing and creaky floors of your antique home, but chances are it has unique design elements that most people would pay money to replicate. Instead of counting down the days until you can rip everything out and start anew, embrace the quirky details that give your older home personality. After a quick touch up, those less-than favorable details can become downright swoon-worthy.
Exposed Brick Walls
Exposed, or “face brick” walls add a sense of maturity and industrialism that many new homeowners often spend large amounts of money to achieve. (Have you noticed the faux-brick wall coverings available in hardware stores?) I walked into a model home recently and was completely stunned by the beautiful brick accent wall complete with a fireplace. Not many new homebuilders have that as an option, but they certainly should!
The only downside to a brick wall is that it darkens the room. But instead of covering up all that antique charm, paint the walls around it a crisp white or a light shade of beige. Hang a large golden mirror over a brick fireplace to reflect light and make the room appear brighter. Another option is to white wash the brick with watered down paint. White washing will brighten the room and still show off the beautiful details in the brick.
Courtesy of Reconstructionist, source
Wood Flooring
Wood floors make the heart sing, don’t they? Antique wood floors may be uneven in parts, but they show more about your home’s personality than any other element. Before men from the hardware store could come and install wood floors in a day, skilled workers used to spend weeks building sturdy floors that lasted.
Instead of replacing your wood floors, touch them up with an inexpensive wood treatment or wood stain to make the floors look as good as new. However, if you see any signs of mold or decay, however, get them professionally looked at and consider replacing them!
The Floor Plan
While the floor plan in your antique home may have some oddly shaped rooms, it’s likely that the overall layout is relaxed and comfortable. In the 70’s, homebuilders began to experiment by taking out dining rooms and other “extra” rooms. Today, however, large dining rooms are a luxurious and sought-after commodity. Anything pre-1970’s, then, is often similar to the layouts that new homeowners pay big bucks for minus a few quirks, but consider those quaint little sun porches and round-shaped rooms conversation pieces.
Moulding and Woodwork
Homebuilders in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s made moulding and woodwork a priority. The interior details that went into homes were often as important as the construction itself. Houses were not complete without crown moulding lining the tops of the walls and framing the doors. Homebuilders today are more about mass production and usually only include moulding for a hefty price. Revive the moulding in your home with a good scrubbing and a new coat of paint, or if it is bare wood, a finishing-stain.
Wood Doors
Even though they do not always fit perfectly in the doorframe, antique doors have charm unlike any other. Those little details like tiny key locks, textured windows, and wooden panels set old-fashioned doors apart from the standard four-panel door. Embrace your old-fashioned door by painting it in a bright color. If you decide to purchase new doors, turn the old ones into a headboard or décor piece, or use freecycle.org. I have freecycled a pair of old doors in Edmonton and I recommend it.
courtesy of ekkiPics, source
Hardware
The beauty in an old doorknob or cabinet fixture is often hidden under layers of grime and brassiness. Make your vintage hardware stand out by soaking them in a solution with a vinegar and water base. To get rid of a dull brass finish, add baking soda. For copper knobs, add lemon to the vinegar and water.
Windows
Nothing says “farmhouse in the country” like a white house with black framed windowpanes. The unique window sizes and shapes make both the inside and outside of a home eye-catching, but years of dirt can leave them looking poorly. Spray windows down with a hose to loosen the dirt, then scrub each window down with cleaning solution.
With these tips, giving your home a makeover is easy and affordable. Your home will be sparkling and new in no time! What do you love about your antique home? Share below!
Woot, woot! The Reclaimed Home “services” page is functional. It’s a mix of past work that was done by myself or my artist co-workers. So, so much that was never photographed, but we’ll document the new stuff moving forward!
We can’t restore an entire home because we’re not licensed contractors but we can take on niche projects for our particular set of skills. That would be the fun, creative ones!
Check out the page!
Ah, the holiday season is upon us in New York and what a delightful time of year it is! Dyker Heights ain’t got nuthin’ on us here in brownstone Brooklyn. Check out the two headed, dirty, urine stained snow man in Prospect Park. And behold the nativity scene in Bed Stuy.
It seems like only a couple of days ago that I announced plans for a brick and mortar shop. That’s because it WAS only two days ago. Well, I don’t want to jinx anything but I think I found the spot.
Not telling where it is yet because the lease hasn’t been signed and we all know that things can still fall apart. But here are some teases. It’s in Crown Heights. If it was half a block over, it would be in Prospect Heights. Right near Botanic Gardens and Brooklyn Museum. It’s located on the unhip side of Eastern Parkway. But I’ma gonna make it hip.
The storefront is a starter space. It’s not quite large enough for everything we want to do but it’s plenty big for the time being. If this goes through, we get into the space to renovate starting New Year’s Day and may be ready for our close up a couple of months after that. It needs renovation. Yay!
And that’s all you’re getting for now.
If you think this happened quickly, well, it did and it didn’t. I was looking online for months and never actually viewed any of the places in person. It took only a few days of physically visiting these joints to realize what works best within my means. In other words, there wasn’t a helluva lot to look at within my puny budget.
So, that’s the big news. The website is being tweaked by the talented Rachel Goldstein of Brooklyn Updates. Reclaimed Home is now an LLC and I’ve enlisted Regina Gordon to help with all that legal stuff that goes over my head.
What else? What else? Oh yeah, I’m hemorrhaging money already. Might have to do the dreaded Kickstarter or Indiegogo. Maybe I need a campaign just to do the video?
Word on the street (Wall Street Journal, that is) is that the ice skating rink at Bed Stuy’s Restoration Plaza may be resurrected as early as next year. That’s exciting! But how many of you knew that thing was an ice skating rink?
I live around the corner. Been through that courtyard plenty of times. I don’t know what I thought it was. I guess maybe an old fountain or some kind of spectator area. For what? I don’t know. It’s one of those many things you see all the time and don’t really think about. It’s just there.
Well in any case, it’s good news for Bed Stuy! Now when are my restaurants coming?