Product Showcase:

We find out from Artful House’s owner PADMAJA RAJAGOPALAN about her striking historical pieces.

Historical, repurposed furniture

While you don’t carry classic antiques, your pieces still have history. Tell us more.

You’re correct; our pieces are furniture derived from historical features. For instance, this taupe arched console ( above) is constructed from a beautifully carved doorway arch. Another example here is an arched window frame ( left), retrofitted with a mirror and placed on a recycled wooden box, with old carvings.

We work with architectural features such as door and window frames, and old carvings, and find ways to incorporate them into furniture such as mirrors, sideboards and consoles.

What do you think is their appeal?

People love items with history and a story, but are sometimes at a loss as to how to fit them into a present-day home with a contemporary look or aesthetic. We love to be able to bridge this gap, and bring interesting pieces that can fit well with the look of a modern-day home.

Do they suit a more contemporary or traditional home setting?

Our pieces can work across a range of homes. It really depends on the kind of buyer. On the one hand, you have the consummate collector who cannot resist the lure of buying a oneof-a-kind find for their home. On the other, you have buyers who are attracted to the functionality of a piece, while also wanting to use it to complement the very modern look of a typical modern apartment or home.

Do you have many of your own pieces in your home?

I do have several; I love mixing and matching as I believe decorating your space with differing furniture styles, colours and patterns helps create an interesting home. This taupe console and vintage window mirror ( below) have been placed with a contemporary sap-green ikat upholstered chair to create a truly stylish look.

Tell us about your new collection.

It will have a special focus on pieces in vibrant colours, such as this brilliant blue door on a stand ( left). Rich hues can truly lift a space, and they’re a firm favourite with us.

#08-04 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 8112 6127 | artful-house.com