CHI Good Questions: Decorate Around This Table?

Beth has a good question: "I just acquired this fantastic antique Chinese altar table at an estate sale. What should I put on the wall and on/below the table? Thanks!"

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Congrats on finding a great looking table, Beth! We'd suggest a single great piece hanging above the table - a large painting, print or mirror. We'd keep decorative pieces on the table to a minimum - the table is already a strong statement piece, and with the built in next to it, a fairly clear surface is a nice visual break.

AT Decor Minds, what do you suggest for Beth? Let her know in the comments....

Comments (10)

Beth what a great find! I would also suggest a simple print, painting or mirror in light colors---nothing ornate. I would definitely not place anything under the table, so as not to detract from the great details of the legs. As for the tabletop, I would consider a thin buffet lamp as an option. The light would help balance the table's darker appearance and really highlight the cutouts in the legs. I would also keep the tabletop clean besides that---a fresh bouquet of flowers is nice (and you've already done that!) For added fun, try leaning the the print/painting/mirror on the table against the wall so as to add a bit of a casual feeling to that area!

-adrienne
adriennebreaux.com
adesignerfriend.com

GORGEOUS table! I don't have any other input except that I agree with Janel. Please post "after" pics when you have added your accessories.

I would place a modern large round mirror in the center, one simple lamp on one side, and one large vase with flowers on the other side.

hmmm... very nice... i suggest a mirror, square/rectangle with beveled edges. (i think the round would conflict with the aspect of the builtin) with the only accessories on top being a single square potted white orchid on one end a la http://a121.g.akamai.net/7/121/21164/20071128123305/www.fromyouflowers.com/images/products/new_large/TF118-3.jpg
with a much more ornate pot of course. and perhaps a small temple guard (dog of foo (or fu)) http://bostonist.com/attachments/boston_caroline/101107-fu-dog.jpg

I'd love to see a great big mirror or piece of art hanging above the piece with some tablescaping (maybe a lamp or a part of lamps, a bit of sculpture, a photo). Under the table, my first thought are a pair of Chinese benches - very simple, solid colors, very square. Mecox Gardens has some nice ones. I wrote a review with photos:

http://www.strangeclosets.com/2008/04/trend-transcendent-garden-benches.html

http://www.strangeclosets.com/2008/04/this-week-at-mecox.html

T8
www.strangeclosets.com

When design takes priority, the result is often strange closets.

Because it's in the corner, it would be easy for it be overlooked. Lighting would really help. A large mirror above and some vivid color, too. A small red and gold woven mat across the center would sparkle.

I agree with much that has been said. A large framed mirror (either above the table or leaning on the table) and a table lamp would look very nice. Or a large period black & white or sepia vintage photo in a nice frame (by large I mean something that will take up much of the wall above the table, again either hanging on the wall or leaning on the table) and a lamp would still be nice.

By the way, I once made the mistake of actually just leaning a large painting on top of some furniture. I learned the hard way that you want to install a wire in the back (as if you will hang it on the wall) and hook it to a wall hook so that if the bottom edge of the painting or mirror slips off the furniture, it won't go crashing to the floor!

I like the idea of doing some decorative painting underneath. Sort of filigree type that is in the shape of a fireplace. I know what I see in my head and can't draw it here. However a decorative metal grate/metal work piece could go underneath as well to fill that space and keep it from looking too top heavy.

A round mirror would reflect the arch of the built in and the doorways.

I don't think I would load it up with too much or heavy looking items.

The altar and the other pieces in your living room are all traditional, and there are repetitions of curves in the room (the armchairs, the wall arches, the wood grain of the coffee table, and the edge of the wood on the bottom left-hand corner of the picture.) I am guessing that you like curves and intricate detail. I would continue with that theme in a painting, mirror or tapestry since it seems that that is what you love.