Before & After: Claire’s Contrasting Credenza Makeover

published Jan 11, 2014
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(Image credit: Clare Fauke)

Claire found this credenza with tons of potential on Craigslist for only $30. But, though the lines were beautiful, the shape nice and the extra storage space it would provide a bonus, the finish was banged up and the color didn’t fit with her tastes.

(Image credit: Clare Fauke)

We love that Claire kept some wood color along with adding a fresh white paint to the piece. It brightens up the piece without completely obscuring the natural and beautiful wood.

From Claire:

It was very sturdy and had great lines, but the finish was extremely scratched and worn. I wasn’t too crazy about the honey-toned color of the wood, either, so I sanded and stained the main cabinet a dark walnut. Then I painted the doors and cabinets a bright white, keeping the drawer pulls and lines in the cabinet doors their original wood tone. Those lines really pop now.

Claire has a very detailed step-by-step walk-through (including materials used) on her blog, Projectophile.

Thank you Claire!

Re-edited from a post originally published 1.11.14-NT