Using What You’ve Got

This roll top desk was the first piece of furniture my hubby and I bought together when we were married.  It is solid wood ~ oak.  We’ve had it now for almost 25 years. 

{In this picture, I’ve started moving stuff around.}

I go through phases with this desk where I hate it and then love it again.  I’ve wanted to get rid of it many times and then think about how it has been with us for most of our marriage.  I had thought about redoing it in a distressed black, but I think hubby would have a heart attack {even though it’s not a desk he uses, passes by or gives a thought to}.  I’m sure the phrase, “Are you on drugs?” would be thrown about!

My option is to use it as is for my temporary business HQ, with a mini-metamorphosis.  I took some of my home office items out of packing boxes to dress it up a bit and have it fit in with my living room redecorating.  I can, however, get rid of this chair that has been sitting by it for more years than it should have.   Ain’t she purdy?

I ordered the chair below from Target {$99.00 with free shipping} to take its place.  It’s beige but I like it for several reasons:  1. I will be able to use it anywhere in any house we may down-size to; 2. I love the skirt; 3. I love the details on the back and since this chair will be seen more from the back than the front, I think that is important; 4. I like the slight curve to the top; and 5. I will sit in this beautiful chair and actually use this desk.

Here she is sporting a beautiful pillow I purchased from Rhonda at Blue Creek Home. 

Here’s the picture from the Target site.

 

I also think I will redo the hardware by first cleaning it and then spray painting them.   Not sure what color yet.  I’ve already cleaned out the drawers and got them squared away.  This desk became a catch-all over the years for “stuff”. 

My new, old lamp which I transformed here. 

Here is the after {without the hardware painted}. Some of what I brought in to make me feel at home:  the decorative box I made here; the gold crown I spray painted here; and a black frame I had gotten from the dollar store.  I just printed out my blog banner and put it in the frame with some scrapbook paper {until I get a picture of hubby and I that I like}.  

I’ve also got little nooks for the note cards and thank you cards that I use in my business.  As you can see, I’ve also got my briefcase, wicker storage file, a wallpaper book {that needs to be returned}, and a decorative key from Hobby Lobby {that needs to go on a wall} off to the side.  Just keeping it real! 

 

I still have some stuff packed up, but so far this is working out for me.  Just using what I’ve already got!

Linking up with:

Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps On The Porch

It’s So Very Creative at It’s So Very Cheri

Furniture Feature Friday at Miss Mustard Seed

Saturday Night Special at Funky Junk