it's really not about how glossy the finish is, it's more about the lines. MCM really emphasized functionality without much ornamentation and was about letting the materials take the center stage. So you'll see wood chairs and tables with spare lines but the grain moves with the design creating a smooth flow from top to bottom. The buffet in the picture looks very traditional in concept with lots of decoration. You'd really have to hack it to bits to change the design which would be a shame. But you know, even in a MCM design house filled with MCM furniture, you can incorporate bits of furniture that aren't MCM. If the table and buffet are special to you, put them in your house and enjoy them! I probably would minimize any clutter in the buffet, and keep the displayed items organized in a simple way, but definitely use it!

We are putting the dining room in the front of the house where the formal dining once was. There is a great light stone fireplace with open sides. The carpet wil be replaced with wood flooring and the stone will stay. Think I can get away with a red/blue oriental rug under it? I like the idea of mixing styles, but want to end up looking too wacky!

Asian touches were popular in MCM homes, so you are in luck.

Your furniture now is not mid-century, so I would probably leave the finish as is and change the seat covers. Your orange occasional chair is of the style…use more orange for fabric.

Oh, need to comment. All of this furniture is GONE.

Too late : > ).

Okay, Asian touches were popular in MCM homes, so you are in luck.

Laquer the set…black with a great fabric for the seats.