Have you seen it around? Danish or Mid-century modern furniture “updated” by adding paint to certain parts of the piece?
It seems to be everywhere now. I saw it first from a favorite local seller of mine, Yesterday’s Treasures:
When I spotted it for the first time…I was as if transported to the scene of a gruesome crime. I actually cried in horror at my computer and said, “Whhhhhyyyyyy!!?!?!?! Why would you do that??!?!?!?!??” But after some time, I’ve come around to appreciate the creativity. I remain on the fence though, as I personally wouldn’t paint a perfectly gorgeous piece of Danish modern or mid-century modern furniture…but there are many out there whom I’m sure would disagree with me. Painted MCM is appearing everywhere.
For now, I think I’ll stick with these pieces as they were then. Perhaps though, this new trend isn’t too far off the mark.
What do you think? I’d love to hear readers comments.
midcenturyobsession 
I completely agree with you about not painting a MCM piece in great condition. Often though, pieces have a bit of damage here and there in the veneer and if you don’t want to do a full restoration why not go ahead and patch and paint? I love the way the lines of the pieces are accentuated by the contrast of the wood and paint.
Perfect example of when it would be a good idea. I do like the lines being accentuated…
Yes, I have noticed it too and have also found it a little disturbing and kind of cool all at the same time. I think some people will regret it. BUT, if the piece is kind of wrecked and who cares anyway, go for it. AND, at the end of the day, if you bought it, heck, dump it in cement. I don’t care. 🙂
I am having an ethical dilemma on whether or not to paint this piece of furniture I bought at a yard sale. It is a small dresser made by Kroehler and is MCM. This dresser isn’t in great condition and would need a good deal of work to restore it. But at the same time, it would be a good deal of work to paint it. There is a chipped corner on the top, some other places that need patching, and there are areas on the drawers that have been worn down through the poly (I’m guessing it’s poly). I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO! At first I was all about painting it, even bought the paint, and now I’m scared of ruining it. I mean, if I felt that horrible, eventually I could just strip all the paint off and re-stain the piece. I want someone to tell me it’s ok to paint it I guess.
First off, kudos to you for rescuing it….that’s half of it, really. For all you know, it could have been headed for the trash after that yard sale. Now that you have given it a second chance, I would get a 2nd opinion from someone you trust who knows a little bit about wood/refinishing. These are the times I wish I would have had woodworking as an elective instead of something else! If paint is what it takes to bring it back to life, do it! 🙂 Best of luck to you!
I’m with you. I hate seeing a classic “updated”. It just seems wrong. But as an owner of a family heirloom credenza that has seen better days I can understand the temptation to quickly restore it. It would take a lot more effort to bring it back to it’s original beauty and keep it original. I am however holding out till time and money allow. For now it has a fabric cover.
That’s a good idea!