Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Restored Bedroom Suite

This post is exciting to me because it one that I have greatly anticipated. Most of my other projects have been completed within a week but this furniture make-over has taken a good bit of time. The general labor didn't take any longer than expected but with all the crazy weather in Alabama recently, I was constantly dragging these very heavy pieces to and from the garage. One of my mom's best friends had this antique dresser/mirror and bed in her basement and asked me if I would want to fix it up to sell. I had so many ideas and I was so excited to finally get to put them to use. While the furniture had a very pretty structure and elegant engraved detail, it was definitely in need of some work. 
The top had a laminate coating on parts of it so first off, that had to go.
The legs were part laminate as well so I removed it all.
I had never used an electric sander, and while it was much faster than a sanding block, the thing was quite powerful. After I got used to it, I decided it was definitely a tool that I would be using from now on.
I decided to skip the pictures of the primer stage because primer just isn't all that pretty or interesting. I chose the base color to be a creamy white called "Woodlawn Lace" and then I added a brown glaze to accentuate the ornate detail. I used the electric sander again to distress the edges and then sealed the furniture with a polyurethane coating.
For the drawers, I wanted to add a stripe that was still in the neutral family but would create a soft contrast against the base color. I chose a shade called "Toasted Almond" which is a grayish/beige color. I felt that the stripes were defined, yet subtle. 
The little key hole adds such elegant charisma.
I really liked the original hardware because it shows the age of the furniture.
I just love how the combination of the glaze with the distressing brings out these details.
As much as I loved working on these pieces, I have to say the staging of the furniture was just as rewarding. What a fun job that would be!
Of course, Presleigh had to be part of the project too. She thought it would be a good selling factor.
Once everything was complete, I could really stand back and admire the bedroom suite. If only the bed were queen size, my current bedroom furniture would be for sale and this would be mine. My favorite part of the make-over would definitely be the dresser. I am in love with striped furniture and the simple colors are just my style. Now I'm on the lookout for a piece in my house that would be a good candidate for the same sort of striping action. 



16 comments:

  1. Oh it turned out so pretty Lauren! Love, love love it!!

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  2. Hi, I am hopping over from Savvy Southern's WOW party. This is an amazing transformation. Looks great!

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  3. Oh I love it!! Those stripes are way to cute!!

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  4. Wow! Now THAT's a makeover! Great job. I love this blog!! I'm here from Kim's party and I'm your newest follower. Pop over and enter my giveaway if you have a chance!
    xoxo,
    Kim

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  5. Gorgeous! Stop by and link up!Love to have this great project added--
    Mary

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  6. This is absolutely stunning! I love everything you did and the stripes on the dresser are perfect! Well done!

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  7. Lovely job! I have this exact dresser in my dungeon a.k.a. the basement. Since the weather is warm I just might head down there and put it in the garage for a little refurbishing. Come and link your makeover to Workshop Wednesday. It would be a great addition to the party!

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  8. Great job, that bed frame looks amazing!

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  9. What beautiful pieces. I don't usually care for poster beds, but I'd love to have one like this! You did a wonderful job. I'm glad you stayed safe!

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  10. BEAUTIFUL!! I live the stripe detail!

    I am a finalist in a huge room makeover giveaway. I would really appreciate it if you would take a moment and stop by and vote for me. I'm 3#. Thanks. Laura

    http://vintagerevivals.blogspot.com/2011/05/top-5-plead-their-case.html

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  11. Absolutley amazing! What a great job you have done!

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  12. Love the subtle stripe on the dresser! Think I may have to try that!

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  13. Wow! These turned out absolutely gorgeous! I love the subtle touches you added and the bed is amazing! I host a decorating party at my blog on the weekends if you would like to come by and share sometime! Well done!

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  14. I just wanted to let you know I featured this dresser on my blog.
    http://corner--house.blogspot.com/2011/05/awesome-furniture.html

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  15. Wow! Love that bedroom suite. looks so cozy and warm. And your drawer is perfect. :)

    Cheers,
    Mizpahlouise@barco scrubs

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