We’re clearing out a huge warehouse in southwest Philadelphia, and it’s loaded with vintage Army surplus: batteries, meters, test equipment, projectors, tubes, really olde computers, and lots more. Click on an image to browse the gallery (warning, over 600 images!), peruse a partial item list after the jump, and let us know what you’re interested in.
Archives for August 2012
Michael Laudati Beautifully Renovates Historical Lobby
In an age when new high-rises and shiny gadgets dominate our culture, there are a few dedicated souls who are committed to preserving the whimsy and heart of vintage styles and pieces. One of these pioneers of preservation is Michael Laudati, a makeup artist who has redefined himself as an architectural and design guru.
Recently Michael worked on a building in New York’s Upper West Side, restoring it to its original 1929 Spanish Revival glory. This remodel was no small project, as it involved installing windows, doors, and intricate veneers, as well as general interior decorating and design.
Taking an existing building and restoring it to accurately reflect its original period involves extensive research and planning to yield a dramatic and unique finished product. Michael Laudati has done just that; here is a look at some of the finished pieces of his lobby redesign.
Here you can see phenomenal before and after photos from Michael’s redesign. Original wooden cross beams have been refinished to a lighter, more natural state. The classic fireplace and wall were given updated treatments including beautiful finish work and edging. Drab aluminum windows hidden behind boring shutters now explode with light thanks to the beautiful casement windows we provided, along with “new” old wall sconces.
Old Wood Meets New Metal: Tables Guaranteed to Blow You Away
We get to take something old, marry it to something new, and showcase the modern yet vintage piece for the work of art it truly becomes. Right now we are making tables out of reclaimed wood, reclaimed machine base legs, and new steel tabletops. The result? Ridiculously stable statement pieces that can function as dining room tables, game tables, or even just accent tables anywhere in your home or office.
These vintage industrial gems can be made to order anywhere from 3 feet wide and 4 feet long through 5 feet wide and 14 feet long. If you want something long lasting with plenty of old-world character, then one of these eye-catching beauties is just the ticket. Since you can create a size that fits perfectly within your space, it has never been easier to bring home something beautiful than now. Click here for more info.
Repurposed Tin Panels Turn Any Wall into a Work of Art
We love it when people take something with a specific original purpose and flip that purpose upside down to create something new and totally awesome! Many of our customers have been doing just that with our antique tin panels, available in 11 in. by 11 in. and 23 in. by 23 in. and other various sizes.
The tin we salvage and sell is all about 100 years old. Our craftsmen fasten the tin to a wooden frame, which makes the finished piece extremely easy to hang. The photo below shows a beautiful statement piece that was created using our 11 in. by 11 in. tin panels.
For people that prefer a simpler approach, placing a single tin panel or a small cluster of panels in fun areas can add depth and vintage charm to any room of your home. Below are two more images that show how fun this type of decorating can look – thanks Carrie and Accents by Nancy for sharing your photos with us!
These panels can be bought in all of our stores, online, and at our flea markets and shows as well. If you find a creative use for them, send us some photos! We would love to see what you come up with.