Friday, May 14, 2010

A 1930's Restroom Break...........

This is at the same restaurant in Houston, mentioned above.....I need to do more research on these doors (as The Deconstructed House currently has a great selection of these doors currently for sale - ranging from $25-$50). I've haven't yet seen these doors as individual, stall doors, and if I do, I will be careful photographing in a public restroom setting......promise! I think that would be a great use for them. From my experience working with single family residential houses in Atlanta, I believe they were commonly installed in the 1930's. They are incredibly heavy, durable, and often found with multiple layers of paint (sometimes lead). Our services can include the safe removal and legal disposal of lead paint, prior to purchase. This is important, particularly if young children will be in proximity to the pieces.


Love it, love it, love it......

Why do old things look so cool? On a recent visit to Houston, I couldn't help but take photos of the decor at the Pappacito's. I thought it was limited to the exterior, which was lovingly clad in recovered and repurposed sheet metals and recycled wood sidings. However, the interior featured solid, five-panel doors and a number of other architectural salvage pieces on walls, ceilings, etc.  The patio was nothing other than fabulous (and so were the margs). The space that was created from the solid bricks and the other exterior pieces created the most comfortable, warm, and inviting space. I just know I spent more money because we stayed so long there, enjoying the atmosphere.
I contend that these classic spaces, with re-use of classic materials and lines will withstand time. I hope that they will be recognized as not only as sustainable practices of recycling "good old stuff", but as wise business decisions in which greater economies are created in spaces where people spend more money!



Clockwise from left - solid brick patio entrance, old rail install and example of exterior siding at Pappacito's in Houston.