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 Librarians –
those 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