Dens gens Creatifs: A Transformed Window

Friday, January 27, 2012

A Transformed Window

To begin this story, I have to tell you, I have always had a fixation with windows. Don't ask me why. I have done many projects throughout the years with old windows. The first window that I ever worked on was an old storm basement window from my Grandmother's house. I had purchased the house when I was single. Once married, both my husband and I discussed how much more efficient new windows would be. When we had replaced all the old windows in the brick home, I was compelled to hold on to some of them. I still believe that I have some up in the rafters in the garage waiting for me.(I promise you, many blogs will come after this on these very windows.)

Years ago while in DC, I happened upon an old run down florist shop. The owner had numerous old windows in his backyard. I approached him and asked him if I could go picking. I believe he was intrigued, because he walked me back to the piles of windows and was telling me where and when he acquired the different piles. I picked up this one and a companion for next to nothing. I had wanted to make a coffee table, so I talked it over with my husband. If I agreed to strip, sand and repaint it, he would help me on the project.

He first built a box out of MDF(medium density fiberboard). I was off to the hardware store to have replacement glass made for the door. I was on the hunt for 4 legs and some hinges which I found at Lowes. I replaced the rusted handle, which I used in a later project(another blog), with a vintage looking glass drawer handle.

Once it was painted out and put together, I wanted to display items that I could easily change in and out with the seasons. I took a scrap of leftover fabric, ironed it out and laid it in the bottom of the drawer. Here are a few looks when completed. Notice that I didn't sand out all of the imperfections on the window. I think this gives it a bit of character.