Before & After: A Vintage Sideboard Goes Matte & Midnight

Written by

Adrienne BreauxHouse Tour Director at AT Media
Adrienne BreauxHouse Tour Director at AT Media
For more than 10 years, I've led Apartment Therapy's real home content, producing thousands of house tours from around the world. Currently, I live in my maximalist dream home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with my partner, a perfect dog, and a cute cat.
published Aug 3, 2014
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(Image credit: Suzanne Bagheri)

What do you do when a wood sideboard — covered in deep scratches and other marks — needs a makeover but you’re not looking to brighten it with a coat of white? You could go with a color, or you could skip straight to something dramatic and do what Suzanne did.

(Image credit: Suzanne Bagheri)

From Suzanne:

This vintage sideboard was in need of a makeover. It had many deep scratches along the top and other marks and scratches. I took 150 grit sandpaper and gave it a quick sanding and repaired the top with wood filler. I then used General Finishes Lamp Black milk paint. I sanded in between coats to give it a super smooth finish and I really like the matte finish of the paint. I lightly distressed the detailing to give it interest and show off the vintage detailing.

I replaced the original hardware with glass pulls that sparkle against the dark background and the top is now super smooth. I also painted inside the cabinet spaces and lined the drawers with fun, black and white paper. Quite the transformation!

Find more photos on Suzanne’s blog. Thank you Suzanne!