Whether you’re looking to revamp an old rocking chair that’s been passed down in your family, or just want to spruce up an antique you thrifted last week, there are many ways you can modernize antique furniture. Modernizing an antique is a creative opportunity to explore how a coat of paint or removing old upholstery can make an antiquated piece blend seamlessly into the modern style of your home. Explore these easy and transformative ways to convert old furniture into modern-day gold.
Clean It Up
Sometimes, the simple combination of a cleaning solution and elbow grease is enough to turn the years back on an antique to complement your modern space. Be mindful of the type of surfaces you’re handling to decide if a power washing system would suit the cleaning process more than a manual scrub.
Replace the Paint
A common solution to customizing any piece of hard-surface furniture is to paint it. Strip the aged paint off of your antique and opt for a color that renews its appearance while complementing your home’s modern vibe. If your antique has wood surfaces, you can experiment with stains or spray paint with a glossy finish.
Apply Furniture Wax
After stripping the paint and cleaning the surface of an antique, consider buffing the surface with a dark wax to revitalize the antique’s color and texture. Applying wax also provides the surface of your antique with a protective layer from moisture and dust that can contribute to the outdated appearance.
Update the Hardware
If you’re wanting to keep the base of your antique, but are willing to customize the details, consider swapping out the craftsman legs for modern legs or swapping old knobs out for metallic handles. Switching the hardware on an antique is also an effective way to customize the size of a piece to accommodate your space.
Customizing antique furniture is a rewarding and cost-effective approach to furnishing your home. Next time you thrift a treasure or feel ready to donate an old desk, consider it an opportunity to convert an antiquated piece into your home’s latest trend.