A couch saved and sold, new acquisitions.

What an amazing week and a half!  I have shipped many items and have been working hard!  I am happy to announce that in the last week I was able to complete the restoration on the beautiful sectional and it has been scheduled for pick up with the shipper.  My upholsterer had the cushions ready for me in 24 hours after I left them.  So great to see this couch with perky and soft seat cushions!   

No doubt about it, this is one sexy sectional! 

She is headed to South Carolina to be the star of am 1800's built home!  I know she will fill the role with grace! 

I have arranged shipping with a great company with limited delivery areas in the south (based in Atlanta) and also has service in the mid Atlantic (based in NJ).  They were able to save my buyer $200 off the chairish quote with plycon!   

My lights have been going out the door as fast as I can go over them!  The gorgeous 4 light pendant fixture is on the bus headed to Nebraska.  I will be working on the tension poles next.  I also picked this beauty up yesterday!  What a fun piece for a retro kitchen nook!  

Love those daisy accents!  

I also picked up a great bookcase!  It features sliding glass doors and a fixed shelf.  

I picked up a great little bookcase that features sliding glass doors and a fixed shelf.  It is in great condition.  I will be adding it to the etsy store and although I could bus ship, I'd prefer a local meet because of the glass,  I may work it into my booth as well.   

Size is 36" by 12" by 35-1/2" tall

i also scored a pair of chrome Bertoia chair knock offs in a great counter height. Front of seat is 23-1/2", top of back 40" from floor.  Knowing how most folks want the look without dropping up to $1000 a chair and honestly, the bar and counter height chairs are not as common to find in the secondary market, I picked these up.  They look new as there is tag residue on them.  Seem sturdy and will add some class to a kitchen counter or bar.  I will be pricing them at $150 for the pair and taking them to the mall space for cash/carry local peeps.  Only a Knoll aficionado will recognize that they are not the real deal so your secret is safe with me! 😂✌️

Chrome finish.  Super great pair! 

These will be great in a modern kitchen! 

Choice of 2 Herman Miller Eames Shells, better than ever!  Reimagined with reproduction rocker base from Modern Conscience. I will be holding on to one of them so when one sells, I will be pulling the other listing! 

I have both rockers in my possession and adore them both!  I will say the tan (Greige) shell is more of a collector piece since it is very early.  Dates 1951-1953 and is the first modification on the original Zenith production shells.  It's a harder, and in my opinion, more fragile fiberglass than the Summit Plastics black shell.  From my research, I would date that one as late 50's or early 60's. It has the S circle Summit logo and the double triangle logo plus the Herman Miller logo stamped into the fiberglass.  The upholstery is in good shape with only one puncture tear and some marks/discoloration on the vinyl.  Very minor issues.  Both of these chairs are iconic pieces of MCM design and recognizable by even the most novice of fans.  Such a cool piece to add to your home and definitely will not depreciate in value.  I have taken great care to restore them so they are in ready to use condition.  Perfect for parents to be!  The chairs really do not take up a large footprint either, so you can slide into a tighter space.  Locals can see them both in person to decide!  

Both listings are live in my etsy shop.  Stop by to check them out! 

Looking for restored items?  I still have a few super pieces looking for homes, fully restored with new fabric and all issues tended to.  Pop by and see if you can accommodate one! Bus shipping available!

Gorgeous daybed with all new cushions on metal hairpin frame.  Features Bentley Indigo fabric from Joybird. 

A gorgeous pair of Heywood Wakefield pull up chairs in Vibe Aquatic fabric from Joybird. (Buy one or both) 

Heywood Wakefield pull up chair in Vibe Sunkist by Joybird. 

Thank for popping in to hear about my adventures and thank you for supporting my small business! XO Malissa

The couch of dreams....restoring a classic.

I have been busy working through my items to get them ready for listing in between working with customers.  I apologize for those who are waiting for specific items!  I will get to them, I promise!  I also had a bit of a cold last week which kept me less than productive.   

I had a very interested party in the sectional and although there has been no formal commitment, I decided to forge ahead on the restoration.  I spent a lot of time cleaning the pieces and working on some light stains on the cushions. I managed to lighten them.  They are not obvious, but if the cushions are flipped and swapped, they are mint on the reverse sides so that is fabulous!  I took to my upholsterer to get a quote on the foam replacement.  It was in line with what I hedged for so that is also great!  After that, I came home and ditched the old foam and cleaned some more.  I also added an internal patch to reinforce a very small puncture that will also be on the underside with the cushions flipped.  I will have it ready to deliver in about a week and a half after someone commits.    It is a big investment for little old me to do without a buyer.  I have gotten loads of feedback in the last week and I am certain she will not be here long!  I cannot wait to see her with her properly stuffed seats!!!  

***I would totally take a deposit to hold any furnishing in my inventory and ship when paid in full.  Please keep that in mind!  This works out well for me so I have time to get it packed and then when paid, I can take it right to the bus, I never know how fast my stuff is going to sell and I have worked with folks for a week or 2 until the transaction is complete so definitely reach out if that helps you!  I know it is income tax time and if you see something you like and are still waiting for your refund, know I will work with you.

Shipping......so of course I have taken on this very large item that I could not possibly ship on the bus, which is my preferred way of keeping my clients happy with reasonable shipping.  I must tell you that I have done extensive quoting on this couch and chairish is THE BEST priced white glove shipping out there.  I cannot touch the rates they are getting on my own direct through Plycon.  Should you need to use white glove shipping, by all means go to my page and add the item to your cart for check your rate.  If you are not a current chairish client and sign up for an account you will get a coupon sent for $20 I think.  Also, I can forward one to you with your email so definitely take advantage of it.  Chairish is my highest fee market and it kills me to pay 20% commission on my items when I do most of the work but being able to offer the best shipping rates for those who need white glove shipping services makes it worth it to me to keep listing.  Click the badge below to visit my shop! Save me to your favorites!

I am still working my way through my lighting and want to check it over before I sell.  I did list the entry light fixture the other day.  It is such a unique piece!  It was in use until we look it down.  I will not be rewiring it unless anything looks sketchy.  Kenny will check it for shorts with his meter. Find this piece at https://www.etsy.com/listing/494074972/mid-century-modern-4-teardrop-pendant

Such a stunning piece!   Used on a pitched cathedral ceiling, but would work on a flat ceiling as well.

Used over a built in planter, I would guess this is one of the better fixtures you'd find for this purpose.   

Def American made as there is a union label.  Maker unknown.  Super shape! 

As you can see, it is a large fixture.  The wires are encased in a brass rod so lengths are only slightly adjustable.  The light on the left can come up higher to meet the bottom of the rod.  

I will be working on catching up with those of you who expressed interest in the pole lamp and the plastic plant, so I can get them sent out or delivered.  The plant has cement/plaster of Paris in the pot and it had been a super pain to break up!  I want to finish that up this weekend and get it shipped.  I also have 2 peeps interested in the pole light with the planter bullets that I'd like to go over next.  We are up to our ears in basketball season and have games or practice most weeknights and over the weekend.  Getting very weary of it and this should be over by the end of February, thank goodness!   

I am also picking up the black Herman Miller rocker this Tuesday and will be getting it listed right away.  Both rockers are available but I will be keeping the one that does not sell first so if you are considering adding one, now is the time to commit.  Unless I stumble across another shell, I will not be getting any more.  

The tension screen is at my booth space.  I left it as is, the bottom panel is damaged.  It can be removed or shortened, but figured I would let that up to the new owner.  Added some other goodies this week too.  Stop by WED-SUN 10-6 at Fleetwood Antique Mall 14129 Kutztown Rd, Fleetwood, PA. GRQ Used Furnishings is with us now so I can tell you there is lots to see!  Great prices and a huge selection of every era you could want. 

Please stop by all my shops for your Valentine's Day gifts!  I am stocked with some great items!  Thanks for your support! XO Malissa

A fabulously glam estate sale, new acquisitions!

About once a year I get invited to an estate sale that is a time capsule of kitsch and a Mecca of mid century madness.  This weekend I was shopping in a neighborhood I have driven by many times in my life never knowing that these awesome mid century splits even existed.  A very cool layout that was disguised by the curb appeal of a ranch.   

Inside were treasures so great I was thrilled just to see them in person.  Have I had a bigger budget I would have bought more!  Many items need rehab, cleaning and TLC, so I will get through them and then list.  I have some folks already claiming things so I will be working in order of request.  Have a look at the fun!   

The first item I already listed in the bunch is a gorgeous brass finish Hollywood regency bar cart.  It features two removable brass shelves, caster wheels.  Some oxidation to the finish which did not clean with a polish.  Could be painted over if you don't like the patina.  Available now in the etsy shop.

Already claimed is a really cool plastic plant with orange fronds ala Horton Hears a Who.  I had an interested party who spotted it in one of my pics from the sale and although it was claimed, I got there yesterday to find the claimed only took one of the 2. I will be removing the cement from the pot, cleaning and getting this sent to Buffalo.   

It does not get any kitschier than this!   PURCHASED FOR JOYCE. 

Next up is something I picked for my own foyer!  A fabulous 24 arm Sputnik chandelier!   

It's going to look great here after a rewire and polish! 

Guess what?  I have a 16 arm Sputnik I was going to use in my dining room which will now be up for grabs!  I have it listed in all my markets.  I priced at $350 including your shipping.  A Brooklyn competitor has the same light st $550, so I think I am under value.  You will need to buy bulbs which gets expensive.  Voltage meter tested with no shorts and all sockets viable.  It will work as is but you may want to rewire for current standards.   

UPDATE SOLD!  Great size for dining room at standard height ceiling. 

Speaking of lights, I got more!!!!! I invested in many unique lighting pieces at this sale.  Period lighting is always a treat but mass quantities is overwhelming!  I got some great pieces, all of which will require rewiring and rehab work and even some parts.  I will invest in getting them back in working order.  The first beauty is an impressive suspension pole lamp that feautures hanging bullet planters under the lights.  A total unique piece!  I have an interested buyer so will be working on this one first and offering her first shot.  If she declines, it will be listed in my markets.  

THIS PIECE HAS TWO ON THE WAIT LIST  Absolutely amazing!  This one will need minimal work, just checking over and rewiring if my husband deems necessary.  The plastic plants are saved and will ship with the lamp.

The next suspension pole lamp is in need of globe replacement.  One is missing, one cracked and one good.  I will keep my eyes peeled for replacements in the coming weeks.  it's the lamp in the right.

This awesome lamp was left behind by the claimer because it had no guts! I was able to snag it yesterday.  It needs total rehab including paint, wiring and sockets but those fiberglass shades?  THEY ARE PERFECT and just need cleaned. Will be working on this in the coming weeks!  

 I have claimed this fixture and will be removing it next weekend then rewiring.  You don't find stuff like this anymore! 

My favorite acquisition, though, is a stunning tufted custom 3 PC sectional.  I have already gone over the end pieces and cleaned them and evaluated.  Structurally we are about 100%.  The only issues are some stains on the seat cushions and minor wear to the velvet.  I will be replacing the seat cushion foam but hoping I can find a fabric match because I would have new covers made as well.  This will be an expensive undertaking though, so will have to save up before I attack or find someone who is serious and would pay half deposit so I could fund the work.  This is such a stunning piece and I am in love!  

As it sat in it's home since the 1950's.  

The pillows are mint! 

The skirt can remove to show MCM walnut peg legs but I am really digging this particular skirt! 

It's a great color!  You can see how bold it is out in the natural light on an overcast day.  If you are interested please reach out!  I would, of course, deliver in my region with shipping available through my chairish shop.  It truly is a gem and I am thinking finished price will be around $2000.  

I hope you enjoyed the tour of new items!  Email me if you want to inquire or claim anything and I will put it in the queue and keep you posted on status.  Local pick ups at Fleetwood Antique Mall available just give me a few days notice to get your item out there!  Have a great week! XO Malissa

The MCM Inventor, Robert Karoff of Karoff Originals

Typical tags that would be found on a Karoff item. 

Hope everyone had a great holiday!  I am happy to get back on track with an informative post as I just picked up a fabulous foldable cocktail table that was so unique, I knew I had to add it to my inventory!  It has it's original label from Karoff Originals, NY.  A quick search showed me that Karoff Originals was well known as a purveyor of hostess gifts and other kitchen and knick knack tchotchkes.  The company also was known for a line of perfume packaged in unique bottles similar to the collectable Avon varieties. These perfumes were sold as early as the 1930s and into the 1950s for sure. The amazing discovery was that Robert Karoff boasts a slew of patents to his inventions and designs during his years and even patented the process to cut and fry carrots  to turn them into a crunchy chip like snack!  This was in the 1980's by the way, so he must have been competing with the famous Ron Popiel, infomercial King.  

A selection of clever perfume packaging designed my Robert Karoff for Karoff Originals. 

I quickly found the patent to my table, officially registered as "HANDHOLD ACTUATED FOLDABLE TABLE".  It appears that there are 2 different styles as the first page looked like my metal legs, and a 2nd page showed what looks like wood legs.  The metal legs swing together and fit inside when the sides are dropped.  Very clever.  The woman I bought the table from said it was her mother's so my guess is she used it as a permanent table and quickly decided the eyelet bolt that was to serve as the carry handle was an eyesore and in the way as it was clipped off.  Because this appears to be a custom fabricated item, there is no way we can replace it, but perhaps a determined collector could attempt to have one made.  The good news is the veneer top is in excellent condition with only the most minor wear and does not have any stains, eyesores and or finish issues. I do think the boards are solid walnut.  The legs have some oxidation on the gold tone finish so I will be painting them to make them attractive again.  All feet glides are in tact which is always exciting!  This table folds into a very manageable size and is perfect for me to ship to far away places as the majority of my inventory gets shipped.  I have extensively searched for days and have not located any photos or write-ups on any in existence.  Mr. Karoff's obituary also states he was an 'inventor of foldable furnishings' but besides a collapsible bar cart entitled 'VERSA', and this table design, I have found no other references to furniture he designed.  There is a small table top folding buffet server which seems to pop up most in the secondary market and the bar carts are available.  This table, however, is a gem and appears to be quite elusive.  Would definitely love to hear from folks who may remember this table from their past or even have one of the 2 types of designs that show up in the patent!  

Meanwhile, this beauty will be finished up and listed in my shops.  If you are interested in it please reach out and I could give you first offer before I list. 

Blueprint sketch of the table as submitted with the patent. 

The table as found.  The metal disk in the center functions as the bolt that is also the swivel point for the legs.  Sadly the owner had clipped the eyelit loop that would serve as the carry handle when the table is folded. 

The horizontal leg set is on a center pivot and will sit tight on the wood wedges when in position.  Then swivel back next to the fixed legs so the table top can be folded for transport. 

A view of the legs swung ready to collapse the top. 

Folded up in a cute and tiny package for transport or storage.  

Original label intact.  Yes, this could easily have been lost over the years.  I will spray adhesive on this one to make sure it stays attached. I did search generically knowing that others may not know the maker and still no luck finding another!   

Keep your eyes peeled for Karoff Originals in your hunts!  I bet now that we know about them, we will find more items in the wild!

XO Malissa