A week ago, this desk had a dark green formica countertop. I had wanted to change it since moving in over a year ago. But, some projects just take awhile to get to.
Painting the desk was a small change but it made a big difference!
It freshened up the room and made it feel more open.
Painting the desk was a small change but it made a big difference!
It freshened up the room and made it feel more open.
To see why this made such a difference, you need to see how the desk started...
Here's another before picture (dark and cluttered!)...
And after...
It was one of the first times I've used an oil-based paint. It was a type of paint specifically made for formica countertops (by Rustoleum, found at Home Depot).
It took four coats. Hopefully, it will wear well!
I found oil-based paint harder to work with than water-based because it had more of heavy, "sticky" consistency and the odor was really strong. You definitely want to wear a mask! I used a foam roller so lint wouldn't be left behind. I think that was helpful.
After the paint had dried, the fun part began. I brought in a plant...
And filled some of the jars with faux berries to go along with the Farm Shop sign...
Some fresh spring flowers...
I "shopped" our house for a lamp that fit the space better...
I now feel like I can breathe when I look at this corner of the room! :) It's nice, because this is where I do almost all of my work on the computer.
Our middle son (9), who would like to see a lot more color in our house said, "I actually like the white. It looks clean." Ahhhhh, he said it! (And he does have color in his room, in case you were wondering!)
What have you painted that has made a big difference in the way an area in your home feels? A piece of furniture, fireplace, wall, room? Is there anything you're wanting to paint when you can find the time?
xo
Sharing with:
French Country Cottage
Cozy Little House
Cedar Hill Farmhouse
Our middle son (9), who would like to see a lot more color in our house said, "I actually like the white. It looks clean." Ahhhhh, he said it! (And he does have color in his room, in case you were wondering!)
What have you painted that has made a big difference in the way an area in your home feels? A piece of furniture, fireplace, wall, room? Is there anything you're wanting to paint when you can find the time?
xo
Sharing with:
French Country Cottage
Cozy Little House
Cedar Hill Farmhouse
Hi Julie! Too cute! You did a great job! Where did you get the energy after that birthday party decorating event! Ha! Take care,Cindy from my Idaho farm!
ReplyDeleteHi Cindy! Oh you know how it is... these types of things are actually energizing for us nesters! Hope you are enjoying farm living!!
DeleteJulie you are so clever! It really did brighten up your office area. I love the shelves with the Ball jars perfect! Have a beautiful weekend. Jo
ReplyDeleteThank you Jo! What a difference some paint can make. Lots more to tackle! Hope you are doing well!
DeleteLove it! So fresh and bright, and well organized. No wonder you are so creative!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Patti
You are so kind Patti! Hope you are doing well - - great to hear from you!
DeleteThis turned out soooo pretty!! I have some formica I may need to paint!! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely rest of the weekend!!
Becky
Thank you Becky! Yes, it's kind of addicting when you see what a difference it can make! :)
DeleteHi Julie,
ReplyDeleteLove the new look. The desk is so pretty. I painted my wood trim around the windows and doors white and I love it. I now need to tackle the kitchen cabinets again. :) Picking the right paint for that job is a job in itself. Have a good Sunday.
Janet
I bet painting the trim made such a huge difference! That is a big job!!
DeleteLove your desk area! The desk top looks great painted white. I have an old wood chest that I want to paint white. Recently picked up the paint...now I just need to find the time to get it painted.
ReplyDelete~Cindy
I know what you mean... but buying the supplies is half the battle. When the mood hits, you're ready! :)
DeleteI love your desk area! What a great use for that corner space. I like the cleaner lighter look you gave it too. Love that chair you're using and that big sign hanging above it.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kelly! When we first moved here, I daydreamed of knocking down the desk. Ha! Now, I can't believe how much time I spend here. Especially since my kiddos are still young, a desk in the family room, close to the kitchen keeps me well in the mix! :)
DeleteLooks like you've created a great space for yourself. It all looks so pretty and organized. Love that. My kids are always wondering why I'm painting yet another thing white . . . as they roll their eyes at my explanation. LOL
ReplyDeleteLOL! When our oldest was in third grade, his class made poems for their moms based on a color (like I Love You the Purplest). He made me one - I Love You The Whitest. :0)
DeleteOh yes, the white made such a huge difference! Looks beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThank you! :)
DeleteJulie,
ReplyDeleteAmazing transformation!!!
Like you, I've been painting a few 'dark' pieces white!!!
Recently, "Mr. Ed" and I painted the dark mahogany built~in cabinet in our Dining Room Paper White!
I love the switch of lamps within your space. . .and the blue pitcher!!!
They add an air of tranquility to the corner!!!
Fondly,
Pat
You've caught the bug too! :) Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing! ~julie
DeleteI never cease to be amazed at the power of paint! Your desk area is so pretty and I love your styling. I'll be sharing your project at The Scoop this Monday night. Thank you for linking up!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Suzy! You are right about the power of paint... now there are so many more areas I want to tackle! :) Hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend! ~julie
DeleteAll very pretty ...had to laugh at your son at the end...too funny! :)
ReplyDeleteCan I ask what the paint color of the walls are? I just love that color!!! The desk looks beautiful!
ReplyDeleteHi Amber - I wish I knew! It was painted that color when we moved in. I would describe it as a soft green with grey undertone. Sorry I couldn't be more help!
Delete