I get asked a lot about what this space looked like before I moved in. As some of you know, it was a "thrift store". When I first signed the lease, I had not seen the inside, because it was so full of stuff to the ceilings. I only had the shop next door (other half of this building) to give me an idea. It is a 100 year old building with 12' ceilings, so how could I go wrong?
I have no idea what possesed them to paint the ronald mcdonald rastafari colors. All I know is that it took many coats of paint to cover. The final spray of white was done by a local painter, Bret Carlyle. I did the rest, myself, with a little help from Jove (thats him in the next picture, trying to be positive so I don't lose it) (update on jan 17, Jove helped A LOT)
There were 2 layers of the filthiest carpet you have ever seen. Never ever vacuumed, dead and alive animal traces all over it. Notice the wall on the right does not go all of the way up, a cost saving idea (drywall comes in 8' lengths)
Week 2. I can not believe the amount of work I did here, while working 2 jobs (bookkeeper at Petroglyph, also gaining great experience as a shopgirl at a local home furnishings store - they had no idea) The carpet is gone, again with some help from Jove. The drywall and new smooth plaster was hired out. See the next layer of floor - asbestos tiles.
Yes, the tiles were properly removed one at a time and properly disposed of. I have blocked this part out. I also pulled out about 1700 nails and screws from the walls and ceilings. Jove did the baseboards and trim, (update, he also replaced all of the bad plumber patch jobs with nice wood, helped me move a lot of furniture, hung the antique fretwork in front of store - not an easy task - we shared a ladder, and much much more. I blocked most of this out, kind of like childbirth I think, so I heard from him last night that he needs more kudos, well deserved). My good friend Brigit helped me paint the green walls.
I hired out the building of the back room, and the seagrass installation. Looking good! Jove did the finish work on the back room. I must say once again I don't know if I could have done this without his help and encouragement. Thanks so much, baby!
There are STILL things on my original punch list that I have not done. I don't know if I ever will. Thanks to all of you for not noticing.
This is my absolute favorite thing right now. I found it in Texas, last thing I bought, did not get a picture or even a good look at it. I just liked the shape and size. After my wood master got a hold of it, it emerged as a work of art. Someone in Mexico a very long time ago made this with a lot of love and craftsmanship. All mortise and tenon, mesquite, with delicate detailing on the front and back legs. Over time it was patched when it became damaged. These patches are so amazing, and add so much to the artfulness of the table. You just have to see and touch it to appreciate it.
This is just a glimpse of the ships table I have. It's most like ly French, 1920's, and chestnut. It folds up on it's wrought iron legs, and has a lip all around. It would make a beautiful island, entrance table (if you have enough room, it is 8' long), or just an accent table, filled with stacks of books and artwork.
This is the Texas Biedermeier desk I was so excited about. Isn't it cool? Circa 1850, made by Germans in Texas. Pine and oak, still has original paint, which I have had sealed. The center of the writing surface opens, and lots of storage up top. A very useful and beautiful piece of history.
You know when the Catholics have a holiday and dress up their statues from the church and take them through the streets in a processional? This is what they would carry it on. It even has pads to cushion your shoulders, and a beautiful patina on the grey and gold paint. You could use this in your home to display any number of things, pottery, sculpture, or perhaps one of the antique santos I have here in the shop.
