Charity Vintage: Ernest Race stools

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Pair of vintaage Ernest Race high stools for sale by & in support of Isabel Hospice (ends 3 Feb, 2015 20:31:32 GMT)

If you’re any good at furniture DIY, here are a couple of doer-uppers you might like to take on as a little project. A pair of well-worn but classic mid century modern high stools designed by Ernest Race.

They’d be perfect for perching at a breakfast bar in a vintage 50s-inspired kitchen… or teamed with the cocktail cabinet we featured last week.

They’re up for sale by Isabel Hospice* and, although there’s still just over 3 days left to bid, they’ve already had quite a lot of interest. They’re currently £41.00 the pair – bargain! – and a mere £7 for delivery but they’d prefer it if the successful buyer collected in person from Welwyn Garden City.

*Isabel Hospice is a charity needing to raise nearly £4 million per annum to provide their free services to the people of eastern Hertfordshire. Their ethos is that they treat the whole person, not simply the illness. They offer a complete hospice service through their team of Community Nurse Specialists, a 16-bed, in-patient hospice, a day hospice, outreach day hospices, hospice at home and a family support and bereavement service.

Classic Reproductions

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Vintage & reproduction Eames EA 117 chairs side by side

image credit: smow.com

We love mid-century modern furniture here at H is for Home. The classic designs of the era can be incorporated into any furnishing scheme. Pieces can look equally good in a contemporary minimalist space or rustic barn conversion. Our only advice would be to give them a little room to breathe and be admired.

Vintage and reproduction George Nelson Ball Clocks side by side
image credit: Esteban, Flickr

If you decide mid-century modern is for you, there’s another decision to make – whether to buy original vintage pieces from the 1950s & 60s or go for modern classic reproductions.

Vintage & reproduction Eames EA 117 chairs side by side
image credit: RetroFurnish

We’ve put together a  little montage of classic mid-century pieces – the modern reproductions alongside images of these design icons in original advertisements, photo shoots, magazines & film sets.

Vintage & reproduction Isamu Noguchi Cyclone tables side by side
image credit: Chairstalker

Good quality reproductions will provide you with the look you desire at a fraction of the price of a vintage original.

Vintage and classic reproduction Hans Wegner Shell chairs side by side
image credit: Wyeth, 1stDibs

Availability is also guaranteed – sourcing original pieces in good condition can be a very time-consuming process.

Vintage & classic reproduction Eames Hang it Alls side by sideimage credit: Kids Around

Whilst some people insist on the authenticity and history of the original, the aged look or indeed pre-owned isn’t everyone’s cup of tea either. Many people like new items for their home to actually be new and look absolutely pristine.

Vintage & classic reproduction Xavier Pauchard Tolix model A chairs side by sideimage credit: Amazon

We’re big fans of vintage, but modern reproductions can also be the perfect solution in some situations too.

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