So to start, I sanded down the top and applied layers of two different stains to achieve a driftwood appearance. Then I coated it with polyurethane for extra protection. For the body, I painted the base coat and then dry brushed in layers to build texture and fading with overlapping of complementary tones. Sand, sun and surf were the elements I was playing with for the paint colors.
Next, I distressed and waxed it and painted the original pulls a crisp brilliant gold metallic for perfect warm contrast that actually picks up on some of the paint tones quite prettily.
One of the cool things about working with vintage and antique pieces is that you never know what luscious characteristics may reveal themselves. On this one, I got a bit of crackling which looks fabulous with the texture and layers of the design. Love it.
My mother has been a wonderful supporter of my business since its rather impulsive inception two years ago, and she always is on the lookout for me for pieces and ideas. So, I also wanted to give a nod to her with the coastal feel and design of this piece as she, too, is a Chatham lover. Thanks Mom, hope you think it is Cape Cod worthy <big cheeky grin>.
This has some excellent storage space as well. The very large top drawer has four segments, and the cabinets are open for various sizes of storage items.
Another beautiful feature to the piece is the two middle doors are curved. This buffet just keeps on showing off its greatness.
Here are the refinished after photos, and the before is at the end:
Boring but full of potential before: