My living room & dining room are one L-shaped space. My living room furniture has clean, simple lines and art/accessories lean towards mid-century modern. I was offered my great-grandparent’s dining set and when I saw it in a storage room, it seemed to be fairly simple as well. However, now I realize it’s pretty formal, but because it’s an heirloom, I’d like to keep it.
I like the dark (basically black) wood color. The tops of the buffet and table aren’t in the best shape though. Condition issues aside, without some kind of covering (tablecloth or runner), the dark furniture dominates the space in an unappealing way. Problem is that table linens only seem to increase the formality of the room.
Value isn’t a concern here as I don’t ever intend to sell the set, but I’m not so sure I feel about refinishing the table & buffet tops either. So how can I tone down the formality of this set while maintain a cohesive look?
Refinishing the set will not only make it better since its present condition is not in very good shape but would allow you to finish it in a stain that would soften the formality a bit. You could have it done in a shabby chic look (old fashion whitewash) which would modernize it, lighten it and yet still maintain its character.