Friday, March 27, 2015

Bombe Chest Makeover





This project was a learning lesson for me. Not so much in the refinishing department, but rather in identifying the style and history of these unique nightstands.

It wasn't until I stripped away layers of paint was I able to appreciate the lovely lines and details. At some point, someone had painted the details and top in red and gold-speckled paint, and not very well, either!





This style of furniture originated in France during the reign of Louis XIV. The classic bombe chest is known for its curved lines on the sides and a concave base. These nightstands were designed in a French Provincial style, which is known for its intricate details, pulls, and cabriole legs. Bombe chests are sometimes referred to Bombay chests as well.

My client decided on a two-toned gray and white finish. I used General Finishes Snow White and Seagull Gray to complete this transformation.




The insides of the drawers were originally spray-painted (!) red and were repainted for a fresh, clean look.



The original hardware was painted in a lovely silver paint (Rustoleum Metallic Finishes) and clear-coated with polyurethane spray for protection and durability.






Many, many hours of hand-painting was involved in this process! And every time I walked by them, I saw a spot that I needed to touch up! The final step was to seal these pieces in General Finishes Top Coat in Satin.





But the best part was seeing how happy my clients were when they arrived to pick up these tables!




I would love to find something similar for myself. The hunt is on! Have a great week and Happy Spring!


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9 comments:

  1. Artsy VaVaMarch 29, 2015 at 7:49 AM

    Gorgeous makeover!

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  2. MilaMarch 30, 2015 at 7:23 AM

    The chest is amazing! What a beauty :)

    I hope you will join us for the Idea Box Party this week:

    http://milaslittlethings.com/2015/03/idea-box-thursday-link-party-3.html

    xx
    Mila

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownMarch 30, 2015 at 10:37 PM

    These are gorgeous. I love the style and color.

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  4. Sherry @ No Minimalist HereApril 1, 2015 at 4:51 PM

    Gorgeous! I would like to find a pair similar to these too. Thanks for linking these beautiful chest to the Share Your Style party.
    Hugs,
    Sherry

    ReplyDelete
  5. UnknownApril 1, 2015 at 5:06 PM

    These look stunning, I love the colour combo of white and grey!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Barbara @ 21 Rosemary LaneApril 2, 2015 at 1:50 PM

    Oh Beth these are just gorgeous! I love the paint colors and the finish is perfection. Your client is going to adore these two beautiful pieces.Thank you so much for sharing at SYS this week and wishing you a very Happy Easter!
    XO Barbara

    ReplyDelete
  7. thepaintedapron.comApril 4, 2015 at 5:47 AM

    Love this, just gorgeous! I have done a grey dresser with white drawers, now I need to try the reverse! So pretty!
    Jenna

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  8. Geri April 10, 2015 at 11:06 AM

    Really gorgeous! I'm sure the client was thrilled!

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  9. RPK InteriorsApril 10, 2015 at 11:17 AM

    Oh Beth! These are gorgeous...and thank you so much for sharing the history of this style. I hope you don't if I "Pin It" for future reference! :)
    Robin

    ReplyDelete

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