Dec 7, 2013 4 min read

Q. We are turning a small bedroom (used to be the nursery) into a spa-style bathroom, which will give us plenty of room to move around for the first time in our married life. We are researching all the modern conveniences, but want to keep to the home’s heritage style. Can you help with ideas that bridge the two concepts? Thanks. – Marina

A. Creating a bathroom that acts as an oasis of calm and comfort is a wonderful renovation idea if you have some extra space in your home. I can see that you and your husband are ready for this upgrade. There are many bathroom fixtures that you can choose to build on the heritage style of your home while giving you all the modern conveniences. A free-standing tub with vintage taps will set the mood immediately. Kohler, www.kohler.com, has devised a series of three vintage spouts and handles in the Artifacts collection that can be interchanged as you please. They are available in five different finishes. In the bathroom shown here, a modern shower encased in glass shows off the timeless elegance of a wall of black and white marble tiles. The Artifacts showerhead and hand shower are visible and carry the style.

Decorating materials and color will also set the mood. Black and white is a traditional combination, but you have lots of other options. Wood panel wainscoting is easy to install, stained or painted. Introduce heritage colors either as paint on the walls, floor tiles or in bath linens. And check out your lighting store for sconces retrofitted with the most up-to-date bulbs.

Q. I saw your article about repainting old furniture and have a question. I would like to paint the legs of a coffee table black and leave the top natural oak. (This would match an old humidor my grandfather had.) Can I use spray paint for this project? Is it difficult to apply? It seems like a timesaver. – Cathy

A. Spray painting is not difficult, but there are a few tips to ensure that you get a professional look. Spray paints come in different sheens, so choose one that suits your project. As with any paint project, begin by preparing the surface. Repair any cracks in the wood and make sure the legs are sturdy. Sand any bumps or old paint drips, and wipe away dust and dirt. As spray is airborne, you must cover any area you don’t want painted. Wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated area. A paint primer is often recommended; this is available in spray as well. Once the surface is dry, it’s ready for paint. Don’t hold the spray can too close, or you will make rings and drips. Spray in long, even strokes, applying a light coat. Leave any missed spots until the first coat has dried.

You will be able to catch them the second time around. The trick is to apply thin coats so that there are no drips. You can sand between coats if drips do appear. If your project needs added protection, finish with a water-based varnish.

Q. We inherited an Italian coffee table that was imported to the U.S. in 1957. It consists of a marble slab that has sea life imbedded in it. The legs are metallic gold. I’d like to paint the legs either black or pewter. Would any modifications diminish the value of the table? – Lori

A. Making changes to the finish of any collectible will have an impact on its value, as it is no longer “original.” The choice is yours. If you wish to sell it, leave the legs as is.

Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com.