I always find it interesting when people spend a lot of money furnishing their homes with the idea that they’ll keep it that way for decades. Often times they won’t wear the same outfit for more than a season yet their decor stands unchanged.
One of the reasons I like to shop second hand do DIY projects is because I quickly tire of things. When I don’t spend a fortune on pieces I can afford to put it on Craigslist and start over.
I’m about done with the set up of my entertainment nook. I’ve had the two IKEA stands that my tv sits on for almost 10 years now and have painted, re-arranged and re-painted them all I care to.
Here’s what I’m day dreaming of…
I love these two Mid-Century Credenzas found on Ebay. Priced at a minimum of $800.00 it’s a bit more than I’m ready to spend. I’ve been scouring Craigslist for months now and I can’t seem to find one that is wide enough. I love the clean, modern lines…timeless design. But will I tire of it down the road?
Another option is something more affordable or even homemade. I’m sure what’s ever under that beautiful fabric could be ugly but highly functional.
Still contemplating.
Hey there! I’m Michelle; I’m an Passionate DIY’er and in constant pursuit of how to bring beauty to my house full of men (3 boys + 1 hubby). Stick around and see what I’ve got up my hard-working sleaves!
Michelle you are such a smart lady to know yourself so well. You will save lots of monies in the end and still remain a happy decorator!! Lets face it when Mama is happy everybody is happy, Kathysue
I’m sure that you’ll make a greaet choice. You’re right I wonder why people tons of money on things they know they won’t use to more than a season or two
i think the mid-century modern piece would look great in your home. i snagged one off of craigslist for a client for $30.00!
can’t wait to see what you do!
so excited to see what you come up with, i’m sure you could find a mid century piece second hand as a fixer-upper
I like the danish modern feel, but LOVE the idea of some fabric over on that wall. Also, if you get tired of the fabric you can always change the pattern. I say fabric! Fabulous room BTW. M.
No way I just seen something similar at a flea market for $40.
Needed a little TLC though. I thought of getting it for the nursery ..
I’m with you on this approach to decorating…I have a few key pieces I love, but everything else can be changed. Makes things fun…whatever you do with this corner will look fabulous! Janell
I love the mid century piece. You will probably find it cheaper than $800, just keep looking. Can’t wait to see what you come up with.
yep. that’s what i always say, too. some people DO leave things the same way for decades…i, myself, tire of things every 3-6 months…eeks! gotta keep it cheap!
Too bad we don’t live closer – you could have had our vintage credenza! I couldn’t give ours away on Craigslist, but at least it found a new home with friends. I loved its shape too, but its style just didn’t fit with our house. Good luck in your search!
Nikki
I’m the same way and am always changing things out every 3 months or so.
There’s a mid-century modern booth at Copper Country Antiques that sometimes advertises a 50% off sale on Craigslist so you might be able to score something there!
Boy. I remember having one of those when I was growing up. I think it will look fabulous in your home. Good luck with your search 800.00$ really? I’m sure you’ll find a more reasonable price.
I totally agree about not spending a ton of money – I like to change up my house WAY to often to even think about that. That said – if you love that mid-century piece that much, totally go for it. Because you could keep it plain – or your could throw some fabric over it to create a totally different look.
Love that damask print! I think you should most def do the cover up for now as you look to find your perfect credenza.
Hey wife, before you get any cute ideas, give me some time to finish your other cute ideas!
Your dust covered husband.
Love your comment from your husband! Hilarious! I don’t know if you have a Habitat for Humanity store where live, but here in Nashvegas, it’s a great source for mid-century modern furniture. I would also look at places that re-sell office furniture as I have sometimes seen credenzas of a similar nature at those places as well. I think you will love a change, especially if you don’t pay a fortune for it!
Check thrift stores!!! I just put up a post on my blog of a beautiful credenza I found. Well, technically it’s speaker cabinet but I plan on gutting the electrical parts, cleaning it out and painting the entire piece white. And I bought the five foot long “credenza” for $13.99!!! Check it out:
http://prettyprettypetals.blogspot.com/2010/11/haul-gone-thriftin.html
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I had this conversation with a boutique furniture store quite recently. They wanted me to spend $2000 for a sofa that I would have for many many years to come. I immediately conveyed to them that most modern day furniture shopper have so many resources for inexpensive pieces that dropping that amount is considered absurd.
I do agree with you. I dont want to keep a sofa for 15 years. I like change.
Cant wait to see what you whip up next.
http://mrgoodwillhunting.blogspot.com
Girl, I have the same motto. My tastes change and I don’t know what I’d do if I felt tied to something in my home so much that I could never get rid of it!
I see those MCM credenzas for $200 all the time on Craigslist in Seattle–I’ve even seen some for $75-$100 at Goodwill. I’ve already bought two and dh says no more. But I still keep looking–just in case I want to trade. 🙂
I see those MCM credenzas for $200 all the time on Craigslist in Seattle–I’ve even seen some for $75-$100 at Goodwill. I’ve already bought two and dh says no more. But I still keep looking–just in case I want to trade. 🙂
I hear ya! I never understood why someone wouldn’t have their house evolve and change with their lives and lifestyles? Keep scouring the cheap ones, you’ll find it!! Viva La Bargainistas! 😉
I’ve actually found a couple like that at thrift stores in and around Tucson in the last few months. If you haven’t tried the White Elephant in Sahuarita, you should check it out sometime. They tend to have lots of furniture in stock. Good luck finding what you want!
I am pretty sure you do not live anywhere near me. But if you ever want to take a road trip to Chicago you can find those dressers on Craigslist for free or less then $50 all the time.
Nice credenza! My parents have the same one {except is isn’t for sale} good luck finding one. I am with you on 2nd hand, that way you can change things easily
Just a tip. Visit the thrift stores in the urban, not yet gentrified parts of town. I’ve had some of the biggest scores on midcentury there. More elderly people in these parts of town who didn’t have money to ‘upgrade’ their decor. They die and everything ends up in the local Goodwill. Also, midcentury modern/retro isn’t really a design trend that’s taken hold in the city so midcentury modern items tend to sit in the Goodwill forever… As a girl who spent the first years of her life living in said ‘urban, ungentrified’ areas, I can speak from observation… Good luck!
I wish we lived closer! I saw TWO of those credenzas at my thrift store yesterday and was admiring them! They were only $25 each! 🙁 Love your blog, btw! 😉
Hi, I don’t know if you ever did disclose the paint color you used on the walls in your family room area, if you did, I missed it, could you say it again??
Michelle– I love your blog and your style. I live in Washington, DC and in the Crystal City Ward (I think you know someone there…). As for these two options– the fabric seems a bit much and I think you’d get tired of it quickly. The mid-century one seems like it would last longer and look better all around. Besides, the sturdy look of of wood would match your new farm table!