Author: Nicole Karr

Cypress Street Install

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These are some shots of an installation in progress (in April), of a large built-in buffet and bookcase in a historic home in Philadelphia. The buffet (in the top two photos) which recessed into an existing alcove, had integral lighting and a Carrara marble top with an ogee profile. The large wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling bookshelf (lower shots) had integral vents for the home’s ductwork, fluted columns, raised panels, and solid, beefy shelves (not shown). The units were painted in place.

Maryland Built-Ins

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These two matching natural maple bookshelf built-ins are finally in place in a Maryland home. The smaller piece is ho me to the computer printer, and the larger one houses a sizable television. This project was in the design phase for a long time, since the homeowners wanted to be sure that they were getting a product that suited their needs and home perfectly. The result is a classic and clean-lined balance between modern and traditional look. Wiring is all neatly hidden and the components are tucked away behind antique wavy glass.

Ready to Go

 

 

The lacquered Maple Bookcase and Entertainment Unit built-ins are just about complete and ready to go to their new home in Maryland. The homeowners chose solid brass knobs and bin pulls in antique nickel from Lee Valley. These pieces promise to make a dramatic upgrade to the room they will grace.

Meanwhile, two built-ins are being created for a home in Philadelphia. They will be delivered next week and painted on site.

In the shop: Bookcase Built-Ins

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The built-in bookcase and entertainment unit are coming along. In the top photos, you can see the drawings on the old schoolhouse chalkboard for the two cabinets this job entails. The first two versions of the design for this project can be seen here and here. In the third shot, the plywood boxes have been put together. In the last shot, Maple face frames are in the process of going on. The substantial shelves are fixed for a balanced symmetrical look as well as superior strength.

Bedroom furniture

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Here is a grouping of original furniture in a bedroom setting. The large armoire, bookshelf, dresser, and poster bed are all built out of walnut.

The natural cherry bedside changing table does triple duty as nightstand and dresser. The tall painted hutch has hidden storage and display spaces. It would work well in a more public spot in a home, such as a dining room or family room. Grey is a versatile neutral color that complements most decor.

White Oak Entry Door

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IMG_0621 Once in a while an entry door needs to be replaced. This old Thousand Islands-area home was due for one, and now sports a brand-new solid white oak entry door. Three lights of antique glass in the top provide a view of the stone fences out front while the lake beckons, beyond. The bottom rail is of the door is 12 1/2 inches tall and the panels are bookmatched. Coats of polyurethane protect the door from the weather and allow the homeowners to put on a new coat of finish if needed after several years. This substantial, heavy door is in for a long life with a view of the water.

Painted Bedroom Furniture

This bed and nightstand were commissioned by the Philadelphia based design & construction firm, Rissay Ltd, for their complete overhaul of an old city “trinity” home. Their designer sent us photos of a bed and nightstand: they liked the design, and needed us to build a customized version to maximize the very small bedroom space. The original pieces of furniture were painted off-white.

The new bedroom furniture was painted a dark grey color (called Anthracite), topped with a subtle warm brown glaze, and protected by a satin sheen varnish. The center panels of the bed as well as the countertop on the three-drawer nightstand were distressed and stained a complementary cherry tone. The bed features turned finials, a scalloped footboard, matching wooden teardrop-shaped bolt covers, and a curved headboard with bead board paneling. The headboard was constructed with mortise and floating tenon joinery so that it could be completely disassembled in order to squeeze up the narrow, winding staircase. The partners were pleased and their client was moved in this weekend.