Learning about the stories behind our furniture is always a treat for us. In particular if the storyteller is someone like 90 years old Ella. It all started with an offer for some midcentury pieces that we received from Ella´s daughter. We called Ella right away, and she told us about some wonderful pieces of furniture that she bought herself in the 1950s, but which she now has to give away. During our lovely conversation, we also found out that it was initially Ella´s granddaughter who had the idea to get in touch with us. She is one of our followers on Instagram and very much appreciated our little videos on refurbishment – this is how social media should work, right? (This is great!!) So come with us for our wonderful interview that Ella and Sven had at Ella´s home in Mannheim. 

Sven: Where did you buy your furniture? 

Ella: I have been a young teacher. At that time a trainee. I still lived with my mother who offered an own room to me that was supposed to be furnished then. With my own furniture. So I went to the most prominent furniture retailer in Mannheim. Got some good advice there, communicated my wishes, and bought myself a sideboard, a bureau and a wall unit. I really liked this simple Bauhaus style and decided to have WK Möbel. Establishing a personal relationship to these pieces has always been very important to me. And also to involve my inherited furniture for building up a home. Everything turned out in the right way. And somehow felt logical. 

Sven: You also took over some pieces form your parents?

Ella: Yes. The dining chairs for example. A Biedermeier Cupboard from my parents-in-law. A sewing table from one of my great aunts. And I received that armchair from my mother-in-law. Such a beautiful mix. 

Sven: You told me that it is very important to you that all of these pieces will not be thrown away?

Ella: That is correct. Or let’s say, it has been even more important to one of my daughters. Who is all for sustainability, you know? But I think she is right. She insisted on offering the furniture for sale.

Sven: I see that you certainly know how to furnish a home. How to arrange and combine things. You made it all yourself?

Ella: Indeed, I never wanted to have a home that looks as if copied from a catalogue. Having an interior designer who tells you to put that vase over there for the next 50 years or so. Things are changing from time to time. And the same is true for me. You have to remain curious. And disciplined!

Sven: I have been a furniture retailer for 10 years now. Specialised in vintage pieces. Especially from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Since then, I visited many families and saw very different households. It is really rare that I meet someone who bought the pieces herself. And who has such an individually furnished home like yours. I want to tell you that this is really a rarity. 

Ella: Thank you! <3