The creative team at Beacon Hill believes a frayed facade doesn’t mark the end of a well-loved classic. In collaboration with, Christie's Interiors, the company showed what’s possible when you combine classic forms, top-quality fabrics, artisanal expertise and a little imagination with the estate of the late Amy Perlin, who passed away in May of 2010.
Their results paid homage to Perlin’s collecting philosophies: “I like strong pieces that show their age” and “It’s all about line and proportion.”
Beacon Hill’s Director of Fabric Design Alexis Audette offered his expert advice about upholstery and slipcovers, and retells the process of restoring antique French chairs to highly desirable works of art.
CI: What excited you about these chairs and how did you know they were ripe for “reinvention”?
AA: I loved these chairs because of their beautiful lines. Because of their unusual small scale, the chairs can be used in a setting where space is limited, such as an alcove or a small bedroom.
CI: Tell us about the fabric you selected for the re-upholstery.
AA: We wanted a versatile look that could work well in a traditional or contemporary interior. Given the current demand for natural and sustainable materials, I selected Beacon Hill’s Natural Linen fabric in a flax color called Linen. Certified organic, this beautiful Belgian textile has the necessary weight for upholstery.
CI: Why are slipcovers important, and what have you chosen here?
AA: Slipcovers are essentially “clothing for furniture.” They can lend a whole new personality to a room, to reflect a new season, trend or even mood. Of course, a more practical purpose is to extend the life of a piece of upholstery.
Check back with GoDesignGo for more with Alexis Audette's advice on transforming old to new and making over oldies but goodies.
I think these two chairs can still be redecorate. There are lots of tutorials in the internet today.
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