Giving Old Pieces New Life

This weekend I made cookies for the nursing staff, in anticipation for our trip to the hospital.    However, peanut has decided it is not time to check into Labor and Delivery.   So, I thought that I would take advantage of a day without scheduled client meetings and head out to our local antique shops.   You all know how much I love the hunt!   The hunt for antique furniture, that is.  It’s all about great bones.  My number one priority when scouting pieces is to find striking lines. Sometimes my finds already flaunt the perfect color and patina, and other times they need a little love.

Recently I found this secretary, and knew immediately it had the perfect proportions for my client’s guest bedroom.  I just had to figure out what I wanted to do with it!

I worked up the colors based on the room’s fabrics.  I’d intentionally layered everything from batiks to chevrons throughout the room.  The color palette is restful, but the patterns keep the eye entertained. Even the sea grass rug got a decorative stencil!  The total effect is a calm retreat with a good dose of intrigue.

To fit in with the rest of the room, the secretary needed to be fresh and playful.  I settled on Benjamin Moore Linen White for the exterior, topped with a glaze to bring out the fluted edges.  A beautiful celadon blue-green on the interior draws the eye to the subtle fan detail (Benjamin Moore Salisbury Green).

Here is the piece in its new home.  I’m thrilled that the brass leaf hardware detail is popping, and the peek of interior color is so cheerful.

Here’s to giving old pieces new life!

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