apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Can anyone recommend a chiminey cleaning service?? Thanks.

Today on Craigslist there is a beautiful MCM credenza with what appears to be perfect CD/DVD storage:

http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/fur/249878528.html

Has anyone seen or adapted other credenzas like this before? I'm currently trying to design something like this for myself, but I'd be just as happy buying ready-made than going the custom millwork route.

Does anyone have any experience with the Bjarum shelves from Ikea? (click my name for link). Specifically, I am wondering how well they work on plaster walls and how much do they hold? Am considering them for our kitchen. Thanks in advance...

David,
Considered adapting a credenza a little while back, but never actually got the chance to do it.

The main challenge is the strength of the drawers, if you want to use them for CD/DVD storage. Check how the bottoms of the drawers are attached, and the drawer slides. Too much weight (and those CDs get real heavy) and things can start popping out of place. You may need to replace the drawer slides with something more heavy-duty.

Good luck

Not a question, just a general comment because I hear this misconception all the time: A decorator is not the same as an interior designer

In Canada an interior designer must complete a FIDER accreditied post secondary program (3-4 years) have a few years work experience and then write a set of exams (3 days worth). We are responsible for life safety, must plan and design according to the local building code and are responsible for interior construction design and detailing.

I am an ID and I rarely select finishes or furniture - it's the smallest part of my job, and truth be told the leg work is usually done by a junior. The majority of my work involves producing construction drawings and providing project management.

There are a lot of "design" shows on tv right now that perpetuate the misconception that decorators and designers do the same job so I thought I would provide some clarification.