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Does anyone buy formica topped dinettes anymore?

19 years ago

I'm trying to replace a kitchen dinette set (maple with formica top); it's 40 years old & still in great shape. However, with a kitchen updating taking place, I'd like a new set. I love the Tom Seely; Canadel; Bermex etc.; but the tabletops are all wood...beautiful. Since I have a formal dining room, and would like to continue to use a kitchen table for folding laundry, board games, etc. I want something easy-care but with some style & wonder if anyone has come across any formica top brands that are fairly attractive. Over the weekend, I am going to look at a brand named Cochrane. Supposedly they carry a line with formica tops. Just wondering if I am making a mistake by taking this route. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Comments (5)

  • 19 years ago

    My MIL is still using the Cochrane kitchen table that we purchased in 1982.

  • 19 years ago

    THe tables by Bermex and canadel supposedly have a special coating that prevents damage by liquids and foods up to a certain time frame...maybe 24 hrs. I'm going to order from Bermex...I already ordered a "test" chair and am happy with the finish and workmanship.

    However, I do plan on covering it with a glass top just in case! I dont trust my toddler with a fork!

  • 19 years ago

    Clt3, Apparently Cochrane has come out with a new line of formica-type topped tables; was told there were many calls for it. However, there was so little on the floor that I just can't order without seeing. I appreciate your response; obviously it has held up well for your MIL. I'm still thinking about it.

    smile, I have looked at Bermex & Canadel & was told about the safety period of 24 hours for spills etc. Sounds pretty reasonable to me. Are you planning to purchase a stained or mixed color finish? Just curious. Also, great idea to order a "test chair". As I told Clt3, I was also impressed with the Cochrane brand, but since there was not much on the floor, I hesitate ordering w/o seeing. I have been able to see a good bit of the Bermex & Canadel & it looks great. Thanks for your input.

  • 19 years ago

    I purchased the windsor chair C-356W with the spindles gathered) from high point. Seat was wipe stained sand, legs and back were antique vienna. I dont like the rustic or "sanded" look (b/c I want it to be done naturally), but I also dont like the stark beige colors...and Bermex was the only manufacterer that offered an antique beige color that I liked.

    The cost of 4 chairs + table + small buffet would be over 2k, so spending 150 on one chair seemed like a good idea. I already had plans to use it as a computer chair or in my childs bedroom if I didn't like it for a breakfast table.

    A friend of mine put glass on an all white/beige breakfast area set and it looked great. I'm not sure how it will look on wood, but I'm going to try!

  • 15 years ago

    I have a kitchen table & chairs made by COCHRANE that I purchased in 1978. It has a formica top & has stood up well. I just had a new kitchen designed & installed & our daughters all asked "are you going to get a new kitchen set?". My answer was "why should we, as this one is fine." I have many lovely tablecloths that are very colorful which adds nicely to the decor of the room. The chairs, which have rungs, are all intact & still as comfortable as the day we bought them. Hope this helps.