refresh, reuse, refinish

I am Liz Opie- a Chicagoan for 36 years, Wife, Mom of 2, and an avid tennis player who loves design and giving vintage pieces a new lease on life.

I am thrilled to have my first studio space in the 329 building, surrounded by some of the best vendors in Chicago.  I have been in retail for over 40 years- spending time in sales, management, as a buyer, and a sales rep.  After all of that, and thousands of hours of DIY shows, I am now a small business owner with my own space!

I started jake&lulu about 18 years ago from home and it has evolved and grown alongside my two wonderful kids, Jake & Lulu (Lindsay).   It takes a village to raise kids and build a business…and I have one hell of a village.  Both are a blessing. 

The artisanship, history, and story that creates unique pieces is my love language .  This love came from my mother and grandmother.  The saying “they don’t make them how they used to”, and a firm belief that old pieces can be repurposed and refreshed instead of ending up in a landfill, drives my creative passion.

During COVID, as we were all cooped up in our homes, my business had a resurgence.  After all the time spent inside, friends/clients reached out to talk about refreshing furniture.

The 329 building is my new home base and a creative studio where I will pursue my passion on a larger scale.  I have an inventory of pieces that I have finished with accessories that are ready to take home, as well as items that can be customized to fit your taste.  I will also be happy to come to your home and work on site.  Whether working on your kitchen cabinets or a family heirloom, I can bring my shop to you and save on pick/delivery while minimizing any damage that might happen in transit.

I would love to work with you on your next project!  Contact me for a studio appointment or I will come to your home with samples and ideas to “refresh” pieces that will work for your home and lifestyle.

See you in my studio,

Liz