Finished and with a fresh new look that gives a nod to its original styling.

This salvaged mid century linen box was destined for the tip or charity shop when I inherited it. Although it was a bit grubby and the material was worn it was generally in good condition so I decided it could have a use in our bathroom.

We decided to make a couple of changes to its 1950’s styling to give it a more modern feel whilst retaining all of its original trim and fittings.

After a good clean the gold arms and legs were stripped back to bare wood, which had an aged colour so we simply gave it a coat of clear satin varnish. The woven beading around the seat was carefully removed and the fabric and padding was replaced with new foam and a contemporary but classic patterned material. The beading, name plate and handle were painted with warm silver colour model paint before re-attaching with furniture tacks.

The wicker was carefully painted in tough white satin multi-surface paint and the end result is a classic design made modern and given a new life as a functional bathroom seat and storage container.

As we found it. Chintzy colours and a bit tired looking.

The fabric was stained and frayed. This is after removal of the top beading.

There were nice details like the Kraft brand plate.

The metal handle is elegant. It was removed with the beading for a clean up and new coat of paint.

Inside it just needed cleaning and re-painting.

Model paint was used to give a nice opaque metallic silvery colour to the fittings.

The natural colour of the wood goes well with the white painted wicker and metallic beading.

The metal handle back in place and the beading refitted with flat head tacks

 

Attention to detail with sharp crisp lines is key to display the quality of the piece.

The new fabric being fitted.

Clean and white inside now. Chain and hinges neatly finished in silver.

Finished and now a useful and attractive addition to the home.