From Drab To Fab: See How These Furniture Pieces Were Brought Back To Life!

I’ve always loved vintage furniture, but I don’t always have the patience for it. I love to see how some people can take a piece that’s been sitting around in their basement or garage for years, give it new life, and then turn it into something totally beautiful. 

From Drab to Fab | How to Refresh and Update Your Home
Takeaways
Creating a luxury home on a modest budget is possible by implementing smart interior design techniques.
Prioritize decluttering and organizing your space to create a more luxurious and streamlined look.
Choose a cohesive color scheme and use it consistently throughout your home for a unified and upscale feel.
Invest in quality statement pieces that can elevate the overall aesthetic of your home.
Utilize lighting strategically to create ambiance and highlight key features in your living space.
Incorporate textures, patterns, and layered accessories to add depth and visual interest to your interiors.
Explore affordable alternatives to luxury materials and finishes, such as faux fur or faux marble.
Consider repurposing or upcycling existing items to create unique and personalized decor elements.
Don’t underestimate the power of proper styling and arrangement to showcase your home in its best light.
Take inspiration from high-end design trends and adapt them to fit your budget and personal style.

So today we’re going to take a look at some of these transformations!

1. The Dresser That Got a New Look

If you’re looking to give your furniture a new look, you may be thinking about painting it. Here’s how we did it!

We started by sanding the dresser with a sanding sponge to remove any imperfections like scratches or dents. While the piece was still dusty and un-sanded, we painted two coats of chalk paint over the top of our dresser; one light gray and one dark gray color (we chose Martha Stewart Crafts Chalk Paint in “Barely Black” and “White Nailhead”). 

After letting each coat dry thoroughly overnight, we used stencils from Etsy seller Stencil Supplies on some of the drawers in order to add some detail without having to worry about getting paint everywhere. 

Finally, once everything had dried for 24 hours, I gave everything another coat using my stiff-bristled brush so that there wouldn’t be any visible brushstrokes left behind!


Take your furniture restoration skills to the next level with these 15 tips for restoring furniture like a pro. “One tip to keep in mind when restoring furniture is to avoid over-sanding, especially when working with veneers and other delicate materials.

2. The Sideboard That Got Some Love

The sideboard was originally a dark wood color and had a lot of scratches and dents. We decided to paint it with a light blue color, which added some character to the piece. After prepping the surface and allowing it ample time to dry, we painted two coats of paint onto the sideboard.

3. The Buffet That Got a New Top

The buffet was covered in wallpaper, which had been damaged by water. To bring the piece back to life, we first removed the paper and waxed the top with a product called Country Chic Paint’s Chalk Paint. 

Then it was sanded down to give it a distressed look, stained with Minwax Dark Walnut stain and finished with polyurethane for protection.

Furniture BrandDescription
Renewed EleganceBuffets that have been revitalized with new and stylish tops, enhancing their overall appeal.
Top-Notch RestorationsRestored buffets with upgraded tops, elevating their functionality and aesthetic value.
Modern Surface SolutionsBuffets that received new, contemporary tops, bringing them up to date with modern design trends.
Fresh FinishesBuffets with refreshed tops, giving them a renewed and updated look for a stunning dining space.
Revamped CreationsBuffets that underwent a transformation, receiving new tops that breathe new life into their design.
Refurbished LuxuriesBuffets with new luxurious tops, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to their appearance.
Stylish SurfacesBuffets featuring stylish and eye-catching tops, making them a focal point in any dining room.
Upgraded ClassicsBuffets that combine classic charm with modern functionality, thanks to their new and improved tops.
Transformed TreasuresBuffets that have been transformed with new, beautiful tops, enhancing their overall beauty and appeal.
Elevated DiningBuffets with elevated style and functionality, courtesy of their new and upgraded tops.

4. The Desk That Got a New Purpose

Now that you know how to bring your old furniture back to life, here are a few other pieces that can be transformed into something new and exciting.

  • The desk that got a new purpose: Whether it’s an extra-large desk or a small nightstand, this piece is great for any room in your home. You can also use it as a vanity or dining table if you’re on the lookout for something more modernized.
  • The dresser that got more drawers: This dresser has been recently transformed into an entertainment center with plenty of storage space for your media devices!
  • The closet organizer: If you have an empty closet, consider using this organizer system instead! It’ll give some order where there was none before while making everything look much nicer than before!

Restoring furniture requires attention to detail and the right techniques. Discover 15 tips for restoring furniture like a pro, and bring new life to your beloved pieces.

5. The Desk That Turned into a Media Console

The first step to turning a desk into a media console is buying one. This can be easily done by shopping around on websites like eBay or Craigslist.

Next, you’ll be making sure that your new furniture piece is the right size for your room so that you’ve got plenty of space for everything else as well!

Once it’s been assembled and placed where it will remain for the rest of its life (hopefully), it’s time to make some changes! Paint or stain the wood in whatever color works best with the rest of your space—and don’t forget about painting those legs too!

6. The Green Buffet

This buffet was in bad shape. It looked like it had been through a flood and then painted green! The paint wasn’t just on the wood; it was also on the glass doors and knobs, so you couldn’t open or close them.

It was rescued with chalk paint! The transformation is amazing! The buffet looks like it’s brand new—and has never seen water in its life.

If you’re looking to restore furniture and unleash its full potential, don’t miss out on our comprehensive guide to furniture restoration. Explore the ultimate guide to learn valuable insights and expert tips that will enhance your restoration projects.

7. The Buffet Done in Chalk Paint

If you’re looking for a way to update furniture, chalk paint is one of the best. Chalk paint gives your piece a distressed look and can be applied on any surface. 

A chalk paint finish is great for large pieces like this buffet, which was originally bought from an auction house. It was in need of some brightening up with its drab brown color and dark wood stain. 

The owners wanted to keep the existing hardware (handle) but wanted something more modern than what they had before. 

We decided on a satin finish in white along with black details around each drawer and cabinet door handle, as well as removing some excess wood off the edges so they could be painted as well – taking advantage of our newly found free time!

8. The Hutch that Got Some Love

A hutch is a perfect piece of furniture for a small dining room. When you’re looking at buying one, make sure it has enough storage space and is sturdy enough to support your plates and glasses. 

This hutch had seen better days; it was in bad shape when these homeowners brought it home. They stripped the piece, re-stained it with a new white paint color and distressed the edges for that worn look. They also gave the whole thing another coat of wax to protect their investment!

Reviving old furniture can be a rewarding endeavor. Find out how to give your old pieces a new lease on life with our step-by-step guide on how to revive your old furniture. Get ready to transform your space with refurbished treasures.

9. From Drab to Dazzling!

Chalk paint is a great way to add color to furniture. It’s easy to apply, dries quickly and has a matte finish that makes the piece look custom-made. 

To use chalk paint on pieces that have been painted before, you’ll need to prime them first with an oil-based primer or latex paint. The best way to apply chalk paint is with a foam roller (we recommend using at least two coats). 

You can also use your hands if you want more control over how much of the surface is covered in paint during application. If you have time, let each coat dry completely before applying another layer.

A stencil can help make even the plainest piece stand out from the rest of your decor—and it doesn’t take much effort! Stenciling is best done on flat surfaces but can be used on curved ones as well.

You’ll want something that has sharp corners so it doesn’t bleed into surrounding areas when applied; otherwise, there will be some patchy spots where color isn’t as deep as elsewhere along edges where two sides meet up.

Stenciling requires little skill other than patience; all you need are two rubber stamps (one for each side) plus enough fingers or tools such as chopsticks tied together at regular intervals so they won’t slip off each other while holding up weight without becoming unevenly balanced due one end being longer than another (which would cause problems later down track).

Furniture BrandDescription
Renaissance RevivalFurniture pieces that undergo a stunning transformation, turning from dull to captivating.
Brilliance InteriorsBringing life to lackluster furniture, creating dazzling and eye-catching pieces.
Radiant RestorationsRestoring furniture to its former glory, making it shine and stand out in any space.
Luminous LivingTurning drab furniture into dazzling focal points, adding brightness and allure to interiors.
Sparkling StylesInfusing furniture with sparkle and glam, transforming it into stunning showpieces.
Revive & ShineBreathing new life into worn-out furniture, giving it a dazzling and refreshed appearance.
Gleaming DesignsDesigns that take ordinary furniture and elevate them to stunning and radiant pieces.
Dazzle DecorCreating furniture makeovers that result in dazzling and captivating aesthetics.
Shimmering SpacesTranslating drab furniture into shimmering elements that enhance the overall beauty of a space.
Brilliant CraftsmenCraftsmen who turn drab furniture into dazzling works of art, showcasing skill and creativity.

10. The Desk that Got Striped!

This striped desk is so much more than a colorful addition to any room. It’s also a great way to add some interest to a piece of furniture and decorate it in an eye-catching manner.

Stripes can be painted on, or added with tape. They can be painted in any color you like! For example, if you have a chair that needs some sprucing up, try painting stripes on the seat area instead of just covering the whole thing with fabric or something else that’ll get dirty fast (or not stay clean). 

If you want slightly different results from your paint job, try using stencils instead of freehanding it all yourself – this will give you more control over how thick each stripe is laid down before proceeding onto another section of your piece.

From drab to fab! Discover a variety of home DIY projects that can completely transform your living space. Explore our collection of 12 home DIY projects that will revitalize your home and add a touch of personal style.

11. From Sad to Stunning!

One of the best ways to give your furniture a facelift is by adding some new hardware. If you don’t have any, you can easily find them at any hardware store or online. These pretty little drawer pulls (from Anthropologie) add just enough sparkle and shine to make this dresser look brand new!

Another way to refresh an old piece is by painting it with a fresh coat of paint. This dresser was originally made out of wood with a dark stain on the top, but after being painted white, it’s like having two completely different pieces of furniture in one spot!

Want something even simpler? Try changing up the color on an existing piece of furniture instead! It will give both you and your room a burst of energy while also giving yourself some well-deserved bragging rights when telling people where they can find their new favorite lamp (that probably costs less than $50).

12. Nightstands Fit for a Queen!

Materials: Nightstands are made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal and glass.

Purpose: Nightstands are used to hold lamps and other items that you need close at hand during the night. They can also be used as bedside tables or side tables in your bedroom because they provide storage space for books and magazines that you might want to read before going to sleep.

Design Inspiration: If you’re looking for some design inspiration to give your room an elegant look, take a look at these twelve examples of nightstands fit for a queen!

Nightstand BrandDescription
Royal BeddingsElegant and regal nightstands with intricate detailing and luxurious finishes.
Majestic DreamsNightstands designed to make a statement with their ornate craftsmanship and opulent materials.
Queen’s ChoiceNightstands fit for royalty, featuring exquisite designs and premium quality construction.
Crown Jewel FurnishingsNightstands that add a touch of grandeur to any bedroom, combining elegance and functionality.
Palace Home DecorNightstands inspired by royal aesthetics, offering a blend of sophistication and practicality.
Regal LivingNightstands that exude royal charm, showcasing elegant designs and impeccable craftsmanship.
Noble Furniture Co.Nightstands crafted with utmost attention to detail, embodying the elegance and grace of a queen’s quarters.
Crowned EleganceNightstands designed to be the crowning jewel of your bedroom, featuring exquisite materials and intricate patterns.
Imperial BedroomsNightstands that bring the opulence of a palace into your home, creating a royal sleeping sanctuary.
Queenly RestorationsRestored vintage nightstands that offer a blend of history and glamour fit for a queen’s boudoir.

Conclusion

That’s the thing about furniture. It’s hard to get rid of it, but easy to make over! We hope you enjoyed these ideas for revamping your old pieces and bringing them back from the dead. 

Whether you use one or all of our tips, we think that any piece can be made better with a little bit of love and creativity!

Further Reading

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

How to Create a Luxury Home on a Modest Budget: Interior Design Tips and Tricks: Explore this blog post for valuable insights on how to achieve a luxurious home aesthetic without breaking the bank. Learn practical interior design tips and tricks to elevate your living space.

Furniture: Visit this website to delve into various articles and information related to furniture. From furniture selection and arrangement to maintenance tips, this resource covers a wide range of topics to enhance your understanding of furniture.

How to Use Architectural Antiques in Your Garden: Discover creative ideas for incorporating architectural antiques into your garden. This article provides inspiration and guidance on how to utilize these unique pieces to add character and charm to your outdoor space.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions related to furniture restoration:

What tools do I need for furniture restoration?

To successfully restore furniture, you’ll typically need a set of basic tools, including sandpaper, paintbrushes, wood glue, a putty knife, and various hand tools such as screwdrivers and pliers.

How do I remove stains from wood furniture?

To remove stains from wood furniture, start by gently sanding the affected area. Then, apply a wood stain remover or a mixture of vinegar and water. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean cloth.

What are some eco-friendly furniture restoration techniques?

Eco-friendly furniture restoration techniques involve using natural products and methods to minimize environmental impact. Examples include using non-toxic paint and finishes, repurposing materials, and practicing responsible disposal of waste products.

Can I restore antique furniture without damaging its value?

Yes, it is possible to restore antique furniture without significantly affecting its value. However, it is crucial to approach the restoration process with caution and seek professional advice if needed, especially for valuable or rare pieces.

How can I protect restored furniture from future damage?

To protect restored furniture, consider applying a clear protective finish such as varnish or wax. Regular cleaning and maintenance, including avoiding excessive exposure to sunlight or moisture, can also help preserve its condition.

Please note that the answers provided in the FAQs section are for illustrative purposes and may not cover all aspects of the respective topics.