Have you ever had a yearning to take something that’s not yours? In this instance, I had a MASSIVE urge. I knew I had to get my hands on these vintage locks to incorporate them into custom furniture. The true story goes like this…
Fast forward to a few weeks before the reveal. I was visiting Maxine to confirm in my mind the finishing touches required for the big day. Maxine burst into the room and said, “I found them; look at these, Hayley!” As she unpacked them to show me, I wasn’t expecting to be blown away, but WOW! They were stunning. They were framed and looked like this…
Custom Furniture Inspiration: The Moment of Realisation
I immediately thought, where can I hang them? But then Maxine said, “Wouldn’t they look great on a custom piece of furniture or something?” That’s when I knew I had to get my hands on them without her knowing. We’d worked together closely throughout the project, but in this instance, I wanted to surprise her at the reveal. Knock her socks off!
That’s it about me. I have this burning need to go above and beyond to make clients’ dreams come true. I do whatever it takes to get the perfect end result.
My Passion + My Skills = DREAMS COME TRUE
Secret Custom Furniture Collaboration
So, we conspired with her daughter and the cabinet maker for a secret meeting and got the locks. With various trades in and out of her home that week, we worried she might notice the locks were gone and the trades would be questioned! Hahaha, but she didn’t (to her daughter’s surprise), and the custom piece of furniture made it safely without accusation to the reveal. Phew!
The Big Reveal
Here is the result! I wish I could have shown you her reaction. She held her hands over her mouth for about a minute, saying nothing. Then her eyes welled up, and she hugged me with the biggest, warmest, most full-of-gratitude hug. It was brilliant. It was priceless.
Last week, I caught up with Maxine and the family, and we were sitting down, enjoying my favourite lunch, a good-quality pie. :) They said they love how every space is a curation of their existing and new treasures. Every space has personal stories, like the locks, woven throughout.
When guests come over, they unravel and talk through their incredible life journey as they move from space to space.
Upon the last bite of my pie, she turned to me and said, “We just LOVE being home.”
I love your home too Maxine x
Lou Brown Design: Bringing Personal Stories to Life
At Lou Brown Design, we aim to blend new design elements with your treasured items to create spaces that reflect your unique story. Whether it’s vintage Japanese locks or any other cherished item, we ensure it has a place in your home.
For more inspiring stories and practical interior design tips, stay tuned to The Design Dose, your go-to place for making your home truly yours.
P.S. A massive thanks to The Kitchen & Cabinet Co who did a brilliant job crafting this sideboard.
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Hayley x
AKA LOU
