February 16, 2012

Cottage Furniture


At long last the Redeux spa has begun the Redeux American Cottage Furniture line of vintage furniture. It was no easy task, but the results and response have been worth the effort.
Our first task was the research: when and how painted furniture was introduced to America and what types of paint and colors were used. Several trips to  
Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts, the Florence Griswold Museum and mansion and lots of reading helped to form the basis for how we wanted to proceed with our painted furniture. Next, came the selection of paints. Many types were tried. Most had several good features, but all left something to be desired. More research and testing were needed. Finally, the only paint that was found to be satisfactory to Redeux was…our own formulation! 
So far, two pieces using this special paint formula have been completed – a night stand painted a cottage white and a small side chest painted green with wax highlights. Both have that special "cottage look" that so many of you have been asking for. A comparison of Redeux Cottage Furniture with some of the painted furniture pieces available both online and in some of the local “home furnishing” specialty shops will, I think, astound you – in several ways. I look forward to your comments on our Redeux Cottage Furniture.
 
In addition to painting furniture, the Redeux Spa has also been busy readying several very interesting pieces being finished naturally. Included is a stunning, art-deco matching set of a china cabinet and sideboard/server. The detailing is exquisite – these pieces are a great find!
Also, a smaller sized drop-leaf dining table with saber legs and claw feet is just in and now available. This beauty can seat 6 – 8 people nicely.

Lamps. Our selection is now the best it has ever been. We’ve found some great table and floor lamps, including a pair of hand –painted glass table lamps and matching floor lamp. These vintage lamps have Adirondack style scenes hand painted on the glass and shades. There are also some lovely pottery table lamps and glass, converted to electric, oil lamps.

Our travels bring us to many interesting spots throughout New England and it is in some of the most out-of-the-way spots that we find items that make very interesting decorating accessories. Two different sets of candle sconces are just such items.

Mirrors. We have many sizes and styles now in stock. One in particular is a mahogany beauty that is quite large with carved detailing – just waiting for the right home!

Redeux is celebrating Teachers and Librariansthose folks who are forming the future America. Who knows, maybe a student of one of our local teachers will be the one that figures a way for the American furniture manufacturing and design industry to be restored. Let’s hope!

So, all teachers and librarians are invited to an afternoon get-together at Redeux, Thursday, March 1st, 4:00 -7:00 P.M.  We’ll have refreshments and some “specials”, of course.  Teachers / Librarians: If possible, please RSVP the shop by February 28th.  Call 203-522-5588         

Looking forward to seeing you again, soon

Bill