1970s swag lamp recycle

When I was a child, we had a close family friend build an addition on my parents’ house as her summer residence. She had been a New York model in her younger days, and at that time lived in Tampa during the winter, and summered in the mountains of North Carolina. She owned a house in the mountains, but as she got older, she decided it would be better for her to be near my parents. 

She was the coolest lady ever and had great style. She decorated this new addition with 1970s oranges, greens and some pretty cool accessories. I remember every single element, but especially the dining table she had built from a door. After painting the door orange, she had two square pedestals built as the base, which were covered in a floral “mod” fabric. Wicker chairs with cushions from the same fabric surrounded the table. 

Over the table was a green wicker swag lamp. I thought that was pretty cool also and actually took it to my first college apartment after she has passed away. 

After I moved away from home, it was soon relegated to my parents’ basement. 

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I asked my dad for it several months ago and planned to paint it, but could not figure out what color.  I thought about stripping the paint and leaving it natural, but decided that would not work with the fabric tying it together, so I chose to go with gold spray paint. After rewiring the electrical, and adding a new chain, I was ready to hang it — somewhere. 

I found the perfect place where it can illuminate a 1960s guitar pick table, a 1940s radio and an early 1900s chaise.  

And we all know that’s kind of how things roll here — mix and match centuries. I couldn’t love it more. It’s perfect at night, and makes this spot so cozy. 

I’m sure Laura would love how I’ve used it, and it reminds me of her. 

Home should always be about the story:-)

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10 Comments

  1. Mom
    February 22, 2016 / 9:28 pm

    WOW! I can't believe how beautiful it turned out. I might just have to borrow it back! I love it.

    • Anita Diaz
      February 22, 2016 / 9:42 pm

      I know, ha!! You can always borrow it back:-)

  2. Becky
    February 23, 2016 / 12:30 am

    It's lovely and looks beautiful in that space. I think it's great your parents still had it and you were able to use it and remember where and who it came from. I wish I could of seen the original dining room it came from it sounds amazing.

    • Anita Diaz
      February 23, 2016 / 2:32 am

      Me too, Rebecca! I am sure there are some photos somewhere, just haven't located them yet:-)

  3. Unknown
    February 23, 2016 / 2:26 am

    I'm visualizing the whole 70s scene, I can remember so well. Shag carpet, colors, daisy wallpaper and all:) She must of been fun and artistic. I like the gold color. Again you have another family treasure in your home, surrounded by love. Kathleen in Az

    • Anita Diaz
      February 23, 2016 / 2:34 am

      Ha, I know!! This was surprisingly light and bright and really fresh. I hope I can find some photos to share:-) She was amazing and, yes, artistic. She crocheted, knitted, did needlepoint and other things like that also:-)

  4. Shirley@Housepitality Designs
    February 23, 2016 / 3:37 am

    I love it Anita…it brings back memories of a 70's swag lamp that I had….but it was a light blue and white inverted tulip design…the two swags hung over each one of the night stands in our bedroom…I loved those lamps…you brought back sweet memories!

    • Anita Diaz
      February 27, 2016 / 11:34 pm

      That sounds awesome Shirley!! I'd love to find something with two lamps:-)

  5. Arell
    February 24, 2016 / 6:05 pm

    It is fabulous! I love the way you put everything together. I am always inspired by your creativity!

    • Anita Diaz
      February 27, 2016 / 11:34 pm

      Thank you so much Arell:-)