Fall/Winter 2005

Recycled, Resplendent "We look for furniture that was built to last and not put together with glue and spit," says Marlene Rimland, an interior designer and owner of Re De Fined Design (773-472-1225). Along with fellow interior designer and business associate Christopher Campbell, Rimland scours flea markets for castoffs most of us would ignore and transforms them to suit modern sensibilities. Recent successes: tired old armchairs painted and upholstered in a subtle silvery fabric; a dilapidated 1950s credenza refreshed with new doors and a stunning deep-wine finish; and a 1940s bench reupholstered with a whimsical striped fabric.

Rimland and Campbell search out pieces with strong lines and high-quality hardware. "You wouldn't put good hardware on something that's not worth it. It would be like going to the finest tailor and having an outfit made from fabric that costs a dollar," Rimland says. The partners share a deep respect for skilled craftsmanship. "You can't find these pieces anywhere today, which is sad because they have more character and are much better quality than most of what is out there," Campbell says.