Restoring Bahama Chairs with Custom Slipcovers by Ania Maternicki
As an interior exterior designer and decorator based in Etobicoke, one of the services I love providing for my clients is restoring beautiful furniture pieces so they can continue to be enjoyed for many years.
Recently, an Etobicoke client approached me with a special project involving two beloved antique Bahama chairs located in his Caribbean home. The original slipcovers had become torn and worn over time. Bringing the chairs themselves back to Canada would have been extremely difficult, so instead he carefully brought back the old slipcovers and asked if we could recreate them.
This is where thoughtful design and craftsmanship come together.
Recreating Custom Slipcovers from Original Covers
To begin the process, the original slipcovers were carefully taken apart so we could study their structure and proportions. Using the original pieces as a template allowed us to ensure the new slipcovers would fit the antique chairs perfectly.
Custom upholstery work like this requires precision, especially when working with furniture that cannot easily be transported.
Selecting the Perfect Fabric
One of the most enjoyable parts of the design process is selecting the right fabric. I sourced three beautiful fabric options for my clients to review, considering colour, durability, pattern scale, and suitability for a warm Caribbean climate.
The final choice was a stunning palm-pattern fabric from Kravet, which my clients loved immediately. The fabric features layered palm leaves in soft coastal blues on a crisp white background — a perfect choice for a relaxed Bahamian interior. Even more importantly, the fabric composition is 97% cotton and 3% linen, making it breathable and comfortable, especially in warmer climates like the Caribbean.
Why Natural Fibres Matter in Interior Design
Whenever possible, I encourage clients to select natural fibre fabrics, particularly in furniture pieces that our bodies come into direct contact with. Natural materials such as cotton, linen, wool, and silk allow fabrics to breathe and feel comfortable in warmer environments while contributing to a healthier home.
As I often tell my clients:
We are not only what we eat — we are also what we surround ourselves with.
Thoughtful design choices help create spaces that support comfort, wellness, and beauty.
The Perfect Fit
Once the new slipcovers were completed, my client brought them back to the Bahamas and placed them on the original antique chairs.
The fit was perfect! Soon after, I received photos showing the chairs beautifully installed in his coastal home, paired with coordinating cushions on the adjacent sofa.
His message simply read:
“Bravo!!!
Chair covers, cushions fit perfectly!
Thank you “
Moments like this are why I truly love what I do.
Interior Design Services in Etobicoke, Toronto and Beyond
At AVA Interior Design, I work with homeowners on projects ranging from custom upholstery and furniture restoration to full home design, decorating, and styling.
Whether you are refreshing a single room or designing an entire home, I would be happy to help bring your vision to life.
I am based in South Etobicoke and work with clients throughout:
- Toronto
- Mississauga
- Oakville
- Burlington
- Vaughan
- Aurora
- North York
- Muskoka
Interior Designer in Etobicoke – AVA Interior Design
If you are looking for help with interior decorating, furniture selection, renovations, or home styling in Etobicoke, Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, or surrounding areas, contact:
Ania Maternicki
Owner, Designer, Decorator
AVA Interior Design
📞 416-889-2642
🌎 www.AVAinteriorDesign.ca
✉️ AVAinteriorDesign@yahoo.ca