Create a new look
Q. About six months ago we moved into a small home and are furnishing it in stages. My partner and I like the rustic look, but I have noticed that too much wood makes the house feel even smaller. Our latest challenge is finding a dining table. It seems simple enough, but we have a small budget. Any ideas? – Jerry
A. In fact, shopping for tables of any size can be challenging. There are so many variables, from height, length and width to the material or mix of materials that contribute to the table’s style. If you are looking for a bargain, shop the local flea markets and second-hand stores. Don’t be deterred by a less-than-perfect finish. You can transform any piece of furniture with paint or stain. Do make sure that the table is in good repair, or easily fixable. Cosmetic changes won’t correct a wobbly table.
If you prefer to buy readymade, then there’s an option that I spotted recently, which offers choices for every taste. Crate & Barrel’s 1+1 Tops and Bases gives you the freedom to create your own table. There are five bases: Elm, Hammered Steel, Parsons Dark Steel, Parsons Stainless Steel and Zinc. Each of the bases come in four lengths and two heights. The table tops, manufactured to fit any of the bases, cover a variety of styles, from modern to rustic: Clear Glass, Gray Glass, White (engineered wood with a powdercoat finish), Carrera Marble, Concrete, Myrtle, Teak and Reclaimed Wood. The Reclaimed Wood bases are all unique due to natural weathering that exposes grain, coloring, knots, cracks and nail holes. They have a tung oil and lacquer finish.
The dining-room vignette shown here features the Dark Steel base and Reclaimed Wood top. The open-weave dining chairs and raised buffet allow for plenty of light and a feeling of space in a small room. The walls are white, and the multi-hued weave carpet lightens the wood floor. All the natural elements come together to create a rustic style with today’s modern sensibility. Brilliant.
Q. Have you any advice on how to blend a man’s bachelor furniture – leather couches and ’80s bedroom furniture – with a woman’s antique wood/classic style to decorate a brand-new townhouse without hurting feelings? We are in our 50s, and I am having a hard time convincing my new husband that some things need to go and how to mix and where to start. Please help. – Shelley
A. Compromise is the only way around this situation. I am sure that there are pieces of furniture and accessories that you both like from each other’s past homes. The leather couches are timeless and suit any style. Keep your classic lamps and carpet, and shop for a coffee table that is a blend of both. An antique buffet or armoire is both practical and beautiful. Mix with plain white crockery and glassware that has a bold, masculine shape. The bedroom furniture might be the biggest stumbling block. Restyle with paint, change the hardware or switch up to a new bed and keep the rest. Your new home will take shape gradually to encompass items, new and old, that you both cherish. Enjoy the journey.
Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com.