Any suggestions what I can do for this outdated built-in?
by
Daisy May
+5
My husband and I just purchased a home and are in the process of renovating. Any ideas for this outdated built-in cabinet/shelves? I haven't settled on a color for the walls, but I'm leaning towards a light taupe. Thanks.
Paint it the same color of the wall so it does not stand out
Hard to give any suggestions without a picture
HI Daisy. I would replace the hardware on the built in and paint it white. It would keep the room open and bright. It looks as if the molding is also white. You could also remove the upper cabinets on the built in and make it a shelf or leave it open to hang a TV. Good luck and congrats!
I would paint it white like the baseboards or a very light gray. The light taupe would also look good. I would also replace all the hardware and maybe give the cabinets some facelift by making them look like shaker cabinets or some thin molding or a face frame. I'm not sure what you would call it.
I would definatley remove the upper doors. If you wanted them to stand out, paint the backs of the shelves with a bright color or consider a patterned paper. The doors could be dressed up with a stencil or design.
If you want them to blend, paint them white or grey or the neutral taupe.
I appreciate you well written question.
Frankly, I think these are really nice woo cabinets. Cost a thousand to build today. They are just lacking finishing touches. I would wipe them down with Murphy's wood soap. Cover any scratches with Restore-A-Finish. Change all the hardware to something fancier. Once you fill the shelves with things to compliment your décor, they will look beautiful. Be sure to pick an accent color to decorate with other than beige. If you use beige make it more tan than grey. Something that will pick up the warm tones in what appears to be cherry wood. Remember the beauty in a natural wood finish is the minimal maintenance it requires. You can touch up scratched furniture, even after years. Painting touch ups typically show.
Lots of great suggestions, if it was mine I would paint it a lighter shade of taupe than your new wall cover. Remove the middle doors on the top. And for sure add lighting to the shelves. I would change the hardware. I would also take off the doors on the ends of both sides of the bottom. And whatever the middle slanted wood is, (I cant tell what it is) but that might have to go. Also if you want to brighten it up even more paint the backs a nice white while the fronts and shelves stay taupe.
Whatever you choose, please post a picture when its done. Good Luck!!