7 SPECTACULAR | March 2016

7 SPECTACULAR UPCYCLE GURUS TO KNOW

up·cy·cle

to reuse (discarded objects or material) in such a way as to create a product of a higher quality or value than the original. /verb "the opportunity to upcycle trash, or turn it into new products, was vast"

There it is– the definition you’ve been waiting for and it’s one of the hottest words trending right now in home decor. Here, we introduce you to seven upcycle gurus located throughout the western suburbs, each just as fabulous as the next

1. Velvet Grace In Oswego Located in charming Oswego, not only will you love the new and upcycled treasures inside, but you’ll love their workshops, too. Offering Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint® in all 32 easily mixable colors. Experiment in the studio before you buy and or take a class to learn how to transform something old into something new. Owned by Mary Blanchflower and Nicole Menard, both Oswego residents. www.velvetgrace.net

2. ST Too In St. Charles If you love consignment furniture then you’ll love this place! Specializing in distinctive home and garden-related items and antiques located in a vintage building dating back to the 1850s. The shops mission is upcycling and repurposing quality used furnishings. From vintage to mid-century to modern, you’ll find it all here. The owners, Stephen and Debra Phillips, also own Scentimental Gardens in downtown Geneva. www.sgtoo.com

3. Nona Jo’s In Naperville Offering a blend of home décor pieces, unique floral and more. It all started in 2004 when the owner’s garage transformed into a one-room shop featuring floral arrangements, painted furniture pieces and one-of-a-kind flea market finds and now the charming boutique is bigger than ever with countless unique new and upcycled finds. www.nonajos.com

4. Boutique Repeats In Aurora Designed with the customer in mind, this upscale resale shop buys, consigns and sells designer and better brand name everything, including home decor and furniture. Let them buy your high-end pieces, so you can go after that new must-have! This hassle-free selling experience is in a boutique environment that carries new inventory daily. Appointments are recommended for a personal buying experience, but not necessary. www.boutiquerepeat.com

5. Vineyard Chic Kitchens In St. Charles Acording to this upcycle guru, Pamela Coslet (pictured), “Greige” is the new beige. A perfect blend of “gray” and “beige”– it’s been on every social media site for the past year and HGTV has dubbed it “the hottest neutral”. Invite Vineyard Chic to reface or refinish your exisiting cabinets using the hottest Greige on the market. www.vineyardchic.com

6. Roseland In Naperville Simplification is the hot spring trend, according to Susan Fisher, Interior Desiger at Roseland Draperies. This spring I’m seeing lots of clean, neutral tones, accented by a bright pop of color. The feel of the homes is clean, bright and uncomplicated! Give an old furniture piece a new look with this fab designer. www.roselanddraperies.com

7. Thrift & Dollar In Aurora So you have a knack for upcycling but aren’t sure where to find unique pieces that are perfect for refinishing? Look no further than this local resale hot spot in the heart of Aurora. So much to choose from. Be ready to be on idea overload! www.thriftandollar.com

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