“We couldn’t let them go—they were part of her story.” Two old armchairs from grandma’s house got a bold, beautiful second life 🪑💫 See how we turned them into living memories in the article 👇📸
A few years ago, before we sold my grandmother’s house, our family decided to keep some of her most treasured furniture. Among the pieces we saved were two antique armchairs she had loved for decades. They had been there through countless conversations, quiet afternoons, and special family moments. Letting them go simply wasn’t an option.
A Personal Makeover
As soon as the chairs arrived in our city apartment, we knew they needed a refresh. Their old-fashioned look didn’t quite fit with our decor, but they had so much potential. I couldn’t wait to give them a second life.
We started by picking out new fabric. Instead of choosing the same fabric for both chairs, I went with two different patterns. This way, each chair would have its own personality, yet still feel like part of the same story.
The armrests also needed attention. For the first chair, I chose a bold coral color to complement the floral fabric. Some people told me it didn’t match, but I loved how the color popped. To me, it made the chair feel alive — it wasn’t supposed to blend in, it was meant to stand out.
Two Chairs, Two Stories
The second chair was more of a challenge. I didn’t have an immediate vision for it. At first, I painted the armrests the same coral color, but something didn’t feel right. After thinking it over, I decided to strip the paint and bring the wood back to its natural look.
My husband and I spent hours sanding and restoring the wood by hand. It was hard work, but when the natural texture of the wood began to show through, we knew it was worth it.
We didn’t aim for perfection. Some traces of the old paint remained, and instead of covering them up, I highlighted them by applying a soft tinted oil in two subtle shades. The result? A chair with depth, history, and character — a perfect balance between old and new.
A Tribute to the Past
Once the fabric was secured and all the final touches were complete, the chairs were completely transformed. One stood out with bright colors and bold choices, the other stayed elegant and classic. Different in style, but united in spirit.
Their transformation wasn’t just about giving old furniture a new look — it was about honoring my grandmother and the memories tied to these chairs. They’re no longer just objects; they’re reminders of love, tradition, and creativity passed down through generations.
Have you ever brought new life to something old and meaningful? I’d love to hear your story.
