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Potential 'Statement Piece' OR just ugly?

14 years ago

I'm on the search for a bedroom suite, and would like a really large armoire, as well as a dresser and end tables.

Saw this piece on our local CL....at first I thought, "...that's ugly..." but after some looking, it began to grow on me (espc. the feet). I pictured it painted a lovely cream, a la Sarah Richardson.

So...is this a piece with potential or just "nah, not that nice"? I feel like I can't think straight anymore....

Here is a link that might be useful: Armoire

Comments (24)

  • 14 years ago

    It looks HUGE. Do you have room for it? As in, pretty high ceilings and no one will need to turn sideways to get past it? Because otherwise, I think it's going to take over the room. And if it doesn't break down, make sure you can get it up any stairs and around any corners needed to get it into a bedroom.

    All that being said, if you've got the space for it, it might work. But when I think of Sarah Richardson's painted things, they are usually much simpler and less imposing. That doesn't mean you can't make your own style!

  • 14 years ago

    I looked at the picture before I read your post and the same thought came to me. It would be gorgeous. I would paint the base coat in black, bronze brown, silver or gray, then paint the white over it and sand edges so hints of the black or what ever color you choose peeks through. My kitchen hutch is like that and it's beautiful. It would look gorgeous with the intricate carvings up top.

  • PRO
    14 years ago

    I think the hardware alone would be worth $50. If you have the room and a way to move it, I say Statement Piece!

  • 14 years ago

    I really like that piece. What a bargain!

  • 14 years ago

    I love it...I would never paint it but I know many are into painting wood furniture. Amazing price.

  • 14 years ago

    I think it's gorgeous, as well, and would not paint it. I think the reason it's only $50 is because most people can't fit it into their homes. Measure, measure, measure.
    Dee

  • 14 years ago

    Fabulous piece...and this is coming from someone who loves clean simple lines and decorating-ha! It is definitely a statement piece and I would snap it up if i were you as long as it fits in your room. I would have no problem with painting it either if that is the look you would like!

  • 14 years ago

    for $50, it's worth a try!!

    I think it looks nice. I could see it painted, or maybe just polished up.

  • 14 years ago

    Wow! What a great statement piece it could be! I would definitely paint it, probably using chalk paint, and give it new life! It looks huge, though, so measure well! If you do get it, please post a pix when you are finished painting it.

  • 14 years ago

    I like it, and I agree about painting it and checking its measurements and weight. Can you actually get it out there, or do you have to hire movers. DH still has a hutch for his former BR set at MIL's because he and his friend couldn't move it.

  • 14 years ago

    i think it would look great painted and think that you can't go wrong for the price!!!

  • 14 years ago

    I would ask to see pics of inside of it! If it's a complete wreck inside pass. if nice inside it,'s a great price if it fits in your room!

  • 14 years ago

    Love it!

  • 14 years ago

    For $50, why not? If it will fit in your room I think it would look really good painted.

  • 14 years ago

    It's beautiful. And it looks like if you got inside, you might find Narnia!

  • 14 years ago

    gorgeous piece and a Big statement at that. Go for it. For 50 bucks you can go wrong.

  • 14 years ago

    Just remember to post a photo when you get it home and in place!

  • 14 years ago

    Scale is wverything.....Unless you have rooms that would fit the scale of this piece, it will overpower. You can minimize the appearance by painting it, but not the bulk. I wouldn't put it in a room with 8 ft ceilings!

  • 14 years ago

    I love it just the way it is. It is fabulous. Very difficult to tell from images, but the wood looks beautiful and in excellent condition.

    Like everyone said: measure measure measure. Also in addition to the insides, examine the drawer bottoms and the piece's back before deciding.

    ***Also, don't forget to measure all your doorways, including whichever outer one you'd bring it through, and measure to be sure it can go up stairs and around corners.

    Also, if you buy it and are thinking of painting it, try to have it valued first, and look for labels as well. It might be a piece the value of which would be reduced by painting.

  • 14 years ago

    Haven't heard back from the seller yet so have not viewed it. If I do get it, the moving and getting up the stairs will be the real challenge.

    Thanks for the reminders about measuring, I have vaulted ceilings so scale should be OK, have to think about doorways and hallways.

    I'm thinking that I want my MB to be serene and soothing, and a bit worried that this will throw a kink into that. I'm trying to visualize it painted (sorry to those that hate painting wood) or toned down in some way, to get that soothing feeling.

    BUT on the other hand, this would be interesting and eye-catching and would bring a touch of the unexpected. I usually play it pretty safe when decorating, so this might be a good move in the direction of "unique and different"

  • 14 years ago

    Heck yeah, for $50! And I would not paint it either. I wonder if it's vintage or new? Can't believe it's only going for $50 unless because of it's size no one wants to come get it. I notice the ad says "Sold". Did you end up buying it?

  • 14 years ago

    I like it.

    Depending upon the piece it may come apart. Most of the larger armoires and secretary desks from the 19th c. that have been in SOs family since new can be broken down into sections for moving. I don't know if this is regional because stairwells are notoriously small for room size in my area or what.

  • 14 years ago

    Your link shows the "status" as sold. Did you get it?

  • 14 years ago

    Oh rats, I guess I missed out as it looks like it's sold. Wasn't quick enough on the draw. I guess it wasn't meant to be, but next time I'm drawn to something I know I'll have to act more quickly.

    Thanks for all your opinions, it's helping me move closer towards defining a vision for the room.