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Thoughts on Deconstructed Furniture

I’ve begun the process of reupholstering my vintage French Bergere sofa.  Let me tell you, this is not for the faint of heart!  But, it is doable!  I’m taking it step by step and have the old upholstery off.  I still have loads of small tacks to remove.  Thankfully, this sofa was really well made and the base – burlap, strapping, batting, frame, etc. are all in excellent shape.  So, that will save me both time and money.  Looking at the sofa in it’s deconstructed state, has me thinking about the deconstructed furniture trend.  As a reminder of what the sofa looks like, here it is shortly after I purchased it.

Favorite Shades of Gray - Revere Pewter

I do believe this is a trend that has been born of the popular farmhouse style.   I don’t really see this style having much longevity.  But, seeing the back of my sofa with is bare wood frame and hand-stitched burlap backing, does have me thinking about leaving the back bare?  I do say I’m thinking about it, because I’m not quite sure.  So, I decided to see what you think about this new trend in furniture.  First, I’ll show you some examples of deconstructed furniture that have caught my eye.

Deconstructed Wing Chair

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Deconstructed Farmhouse Sofa
Deconstructed Chair - RL
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Deconstructed French Sofa

And, here are a few DIY deconstructed furniture pieces by fellow bloggers!

Deconstructed Chair - Noting Grace
Edith & Evelyn Vintage - Deconstructed Settee
Deconstructed Chair - Blue Roof Cabin
 Now, I’d love to hear what you think about deconstructed furniture!  And, more importantly, should I leave the back of my vintage sofa open with the frame exposed and burlap showing – maybe just temporarily?  I’m so anxious to hear what you think, so please leave a comment!
Choosing the Deconstructed Upholstery Look
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Jenny Bell

Thursday 9th of February 2023

I ADORE this look! It reminds me of exposing the ceiling beams in an old farmhouse. It says this is my story and you will listen! Its equivalent to the difference of a nursery rhyme and a fable. Thank you for sharing.

Connie

Sunday 19th of January 2020

I'm really late to this party...wondering what you decided to do after all the suggestions? Connie @_Rebrushed.com

Doreen Cagno

Friday 24th of January 2020

Hi, Connie. Here's the finished sofa: https://hymnsandverses.com/reupholstered-french-sofa-reveal/

Katrina Burns

Thursday 25th of July 2019

Thats a shame I love the look! Planning on redoing my old Ethan Allen chairs that way.

Axel Rich

Wednesday 26th of June 2019

The bare back furniture looks minimalistic sort of, I guess textile pieces were sewn into the back of the furniture to give it a complete look or to create a visual symmetry with the whole furniture design.

Maureen Gutman

Sunday 16th of September 2018

Hello, I am in the same situation, the proud owner of two beautiful old wingback chairs with beautiful lines on tons of possibilities. I also love the mixture of old world and new, so the deconstructed has my attention. However, I think unless your true farmhouse, which I am not, a more refined version mixes better. Using upholstery fabrics instead of burlap and maybe the velvet seat. Just buy enough material to cover the back when the trend runs its course. You can have your cake and eat it too!

Doreen Cagno

Tuesday 18th of September 2018

Hi, Maureen! I so agree with you! I ended up completely reupholstering my sofa in a light gray fabric. Even though I like the deconstructed look, I didn't think I'd keep it for long! Have fun with your project!!!