Cherry wood furniture has long been a favorite choice for homeowners and interior designers, prized for its rich, warm hues and timeless appeal. However, as design trends shift towards a more contemporary aesthetic, some may find their beloved cherry wood pieces outdated.
So, is cherry wood furniture dated? Not necessarily. Creativity and a keen eye for design make it possible to modernize cherry wood furniture without compromising its inherent charm.
Understanding Cherry Wood
Before we delve into modernizing cherry wood furniture, it’s essential to understand the properties of cherry wood that make it such a popular choice for furniture. Cherry wood, also known as Cherry bark Oak, is native to the Eastern United States and is renowned for its strength and high quality. It typically grows to 80-100 feet, with a trunk diameter of 3-5 feet.
Cherry wood is light to medium reddish-brown, with a fair amount of color variation. It has medium-to-large pores and a fairly coarse grain, contributing to its traditional look. Despite its robustness, cherry wood is easy to work with. It glues well, takes stain effectively, and finishes beautifully. It also has a distinctive smell that most people find appealing.
However, it’s worth noting that cherry wood doesn’t have the same level of decay and rot resistance as white oaks. Therefore, its durability should be considered minimal. But don’t let this deter you. With proper care and maintenance, cherry wood furniture can last for generations.
Now that we better understand cherry wood’s properties, we can explore how to modernize furniture made from this timeless material.
Why Modernize Cherry Wood Furniture?
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, the need to stay current and aesthetically pleasing is a common goal for many homeowners. This brings us to the question, why would someone want to modernize their cherry wood furniture?
Firstly, aesthetics play a significant role. As design trends shift, so too do our personal tastes. What was once the epitome of style can start to feel outdated or out of sync with the rest of our home. Modernizing cherry wood furniture can help align it with contemporary design trends, ensuring it continues to contribute positively to the overall aesthetic of a room.
Secondly, modernizing cherry wood furniture can be a practical way to update a room’s look without needing a complete overhaul. It’s a cost-effective approach that can dramatically transform a space, breathing new life into it. This is particularly relevant when considering updating a bedroom with cherry furniture. By modernizing the furniture, you can change the entire vibe of the room, making it feel fresh and current.
Lastly, modernizing cherry wood furniture can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. It’s an opportunity to get creative and put your stamp on a piece of furniture. Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or a complete transformation, the process can be as enjoyable as the result.
Methods to Modernize Cherry Wood Furniture
Modernizing cherry wood furniture can be achieved through various methods, each offering its unique aesthetic appeal and level of transformation. Here are some popular methods to consider:
Painting
One of the most straightforward ways to modernize cherry wood furniture is by painting it. This method allows for a complete color transformation, opening up a world of design possibilities. Whether you opt for a bold, vibrant hue or a soft, neutral tone, painting can dramatically change the look of your furniture. However, it’s important to note that painting is a more permanent solution and may not be suitable for antique or valuable pieces.
Staining
Staining is another popular method for modernizing cherry wood furniture. Unlike painting, staining allows the wood’s natural grain to show through, enhancing its inherent beauty while updating its color. Stains come in shades, from light to dark, allowing you to customize the look. It’s a great way to refresh the look of your furniture while preserving its traditional charm.
Changing Hardware
Sometimes, a simple hardware change is all it takes to modernize a piece of furniture. Swapping out old, dated hardware for something more contemporary can make a significant difference. Consider sleek, minimalist handles for a modern look, or wear something bold and unique for a statement piece. The options are endless; the best part is that it’s a relatively easy and inexpensive update.
Refinishing
Refinishing involves stripping the old finish from the furniture and applying a new one. This method can be a bit more labor-intensive, but the results can be stunning. It’s a great way to restore the natural beauty of the wood while adding a modern touch.
Reupholstering
If your cherry wood furniture includes upholstered pieces, reupholstering can be a great way to modernize. Choosing a modern fabric can instantly update the look of your furniture and make it feel brand new.
Painting Cherry Wood Furniture
Painting cherry wood furniture can give it a fresh, modern look. If you’re wondering how to paint cherry wood furniture white or any other color, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You’ll need the following items:
- Sandpaper (medium and fine-grit)
- Tack cloth or a damp rag
- Primer
- Paint (in your chosen color)
- Paintbrushes or a foam roller
- Clear, protective topcoat
Step 2: Prep the Furniture
Start by removing any hardware from your furniture. Then, using your medium-grit sandpaper, sand the entire piece. This will help the primer and paint adhere better to the surface. Wipe down the furniture with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove any dust.
Step 3: Apply Primer
Apply a coat of primer to the furniture using your paintbrush or foam roller. Primer is essential when painting cherry wood, as it prevents its red tones from bleeding through the paint. Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Sand Again
Once the primer is dry, lightly sand the furniture using your fine-grit sandpaper. This will help create a smooth surface for your paint. Wipe down the furniture again to remove any dust.
Step 5: Apply Paint
Now you’re ready to paint. Apply your chosen paint color using your paintbrush or foam roller. It’s best to apply thin, even coats and let each coat dry before applying the next. You may need two or three coats to achieve full coverage.
Step 6: Apply Topcoat
Apply a clear, protective topcoat once your final coat of paint is dry. This will help protect your paint job and make your furniture look professional.
Step 7: Reattach Hardware
After the topcoat is dry, reattach any hardware you removed, and your modernized cherry wood furniture is ready to enjoy!
Staining Cherry Wood Furniture
Staining cherry wood furniture can enhance its natural beauty while giving it a fresh, modern look. If you’re wondering how to stain cherry wood furniture or even how to distress it for a rustic appeal, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You’ll need the following items:
- Sandpaper (medium and fine-grit)
- Wood conditioner
- Stain (in your chosen color)
- Clear, protective topcoat
- Brushes
- Clean, lint-free cloths
Step 2: Prep the Furniture
Start by removing any hardware from your furniture. Then, using your medium-grit sandpaper, sand the entire piece. This will help the stain adhere better to the surface. Wipe down the furniture with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust.
Step 3: Apply Wood Conditioner
Cherry wood tends to absorb stain unevenly, resulting in a blotchy appearance. To prevent this, apply a coat of wood conditioner before staining. Let the conditioner dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Apply Stain
Apply your chosen stain color using a brush or a clean, lint-free cloth. Follow the wood grain, and wipe off any excess stain. The longer you leave the stain on before wiping, the darker the color will be. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Step 5: Apply Topcoat
Once your stain is dry, apply a clear, protective topcoat. This will help protect your stain job and give your furniture a professional-looking finish.
Step 6: Reattach Hardware
After the topcoat is dry, reattach any hardware you removed, and your modernized cherry wood furniture is ready to enjoy!
If you’re interested in distressing cherry wood furniture, add this step before applying the topcoat. Use sandpaper to lightly scuff up the edges and areas of the furniture where natural wear would occur. Then, apply some stain over these areas to give the piece a weathered look.
Changing Hardware on Cherry Wood Furniture
Changing the hardware on your cherry wood furniture is a simple yet effective way to give it a modern look. This method is particularly useful for dressers, cabinets, and nightstands featuring knobs or handles.
Step 1: Choose Your New Hardware
The first step is to choose your new hardware. Consider the overall design aesthetic you’re aiming for. If you’re going for a sleek, modern look, you might choose hardware with clean lines and a minimalist design. Brushed nickel or matte black hardware can give your furniture a contemporary feel. You might choose unique, decorative knobs or handles for a more eclectic look.
Step 2: Remove the Old Hardware
Next, remove the old hardware from your furniture. This is usually as simple as unscrewing it. Keep all screws and other small parts safe so you don’t lose them.
Step 3: Install the New Hardware
Now you’re ready to install your new hardware. If the new hardware fits the existing holes, screw it in place. If the new hardware requires different hole spacing, you must fill the old holes with wood filler, smooth the area, and drill new holes.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Updated Furniture
With your new hardware installed, your cherry wood furniture should have a fresh, modern look. This simple change can make a big difference in the overall style of the piece.
Lightening Cherry Wood Furniture
Lightening cherry wood furniture can give it a fresh, modern look. If you’re wondering how to lighten cherry wood furniture, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You’ll need the following items:
- Sandpaper (medium and fine-grit)
- Wood bleach (like a two-part A/B bleach)
- Protective gloves and eyewear
- Brushes
- Clean, lint-free cloths
Step 2: Prep the Furniture
Start by removing any hardware from your furniture. Then, using your medium-grit sandpaper, sand the entire piece. This will help the bleach penetrate the wood. Wipe down the furniture with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust.
Step 3: Apply Wood Bleach
Wearing protective gloves and eyewear, carefully mix the A/B bleach according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, using a brush, apply the bleach evenly across the surface of the wood. Let the bleach sit for the time recommended by the manufacturer.
Step 4: Neutralize and Rinse
After the bleach works, you’ll need to neutralize it. This is usually done by applying a vinegar and water solution. After neutralizing, rinse the piece thoroughly with water and let it dry.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
Once the piece is dry, sand it lightly with fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth out the grain that was raised during the bleaching process. After sanding, you can finish the piece as desired. This might include applying a light stain and a protective topcoat.
Modernizing Cherry Wood Furniture Without Paint
If you want to modernize your cherry wood furniture but avoid using paint, you can use several effective methods. Here are a few techniques that can help you achieve a fresh, updated look without the need for paint:
Sanding
Sanding is a great way to refresh the look of your cherry wood furniture. It can help remove old, worn-out finishes and prepare the wood for a new finish. Sanding can also help to smooth out any scratches or imperfections in the wood, giving it a more polished, modern look.
Bleaching
Bleaching is another method that can help modernize your cherry wood furniture. This process involves applying a wood bleach to the furniture to lighten its color. Bleaching can give cherry wood a more contemporary look, making it a great option for those wanting to update their furniture without using paint.
Changing Hardware
As mentioned earlier, simply changing the hardware on your furniture can make a big difference in its overall look. Opt for modern, sleek hardware to give your cherry wood furniture a more contemporary feel.
Reupholstering
If your cherry wood furniture includes upholstered parts, re-upholstering can be a great way to modernize it. Choose a modern fabric to give your furniture a fresh, updated look.
Adding Accessories
Adding modern accessories to your cherry wood furniture can also help to modernize it. This could include adding a modern lamp, a sleek mirror, or contemporary artwork.
Examples of Modernized Cherry Wood Furniture
Modernizing cherry wood furniture can result in some truly stunning transformations. Here are a few examples of cherry wood furniture that has been modernized:
Example 1: Painted Cherry Wood Dresser
The paint lightens the piece and gives it a fresh, modern look. Sleek, brushed nickel hardware replaces the old, ornate knobs, further enhancing the dresser’s contemporary appeal.
Example 2: Lightened Cherry Wood Dining Table
The bleach lightens the wood’s color, giving it a more modern, airy feel. Paired with contemporary chairs, the table becomes a stunning centerpiece in a modern dining room.
Example 3: Cherry Wood Cabinet with Updated Hardware
The old, dated knobs are replaced with sleek, minimalist handles, instantly modernizing the piece. The cherry wood’s rich color is now a beautiful contrast to the cabinet’s modern hardware, creating a timeless and contemporary piece.
These are just a few examples of how cherry wood furniture can be modernized. You can transform your cherry wood pieces into modern masterpieces with creativity and effort.
Choosing the Right Decor to Complement Modern Cherry Wood Furniture
Choosing the right decor to complement your modern cherry wood furniture can enhance its appeal and create a cohesive, stylish look in your space. Here are some tips on how to choose decor items that complement modern cherry wood furniture:
Consider Color Schemes
Regarding color schemes, cherry wood’s rich, warm tones pair beautifully with various colors. Consider pairing your cherry wood furniture with cool, neutral tones like grays and whites for a modern look. These colors can help balance the warmth of the wood and give your space a fresh, contemporary feel. Consider pairing cherry wood with deep blues or greens for a bold, dramatic look. These colors can create a striking contrast and add depth to your space.
Choose Complementary Styles
While it’s important to modernize your cherry wood furniture, choosing decor items that complement its inherent style is equally important. Look for pieces that blend traditional and modern elements to help create a balanced, harmonious look. For example, a modern lamp with a traditional silhouette can complement a modernized cherry wood table.
Add Texture
Adding texture to your space can also help complement your modern cherry wood furniture. Consider incorporating textiles like rugs, throw pillows, and blankets in various textures. These can add visual interest to your space and create a warm, inviting feel.
Incorporate Metallic Accents
Metallic accents can add a touch of modern glamour to your space. Consider choosing decor items in finishes like brushed nickel or brass to complement your modern cherry wood furniture. These finishes can add a touch of shine to your space and create a sophisticated, modern look.
Use Artwork
Artwork can be a great way to complement your modern cherry wood furniture. Look for pieces that incorporate colors and styles that complement your furniture. Abstract art can be particularly effective in a modern space.
Cost of Modernizing Cherry Wood Furniture
The cost of modernizing cherry wood furniture can vary greatly depending on the method used and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional. Here’s a general breakdown of potential costs:
DIY Costs
If you modernize your cherry wood furniture, your primary costs will be materials and tools. Here’s a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay:
- Paint: $10-$50 per quart, depending on the brand and type.
- Stain: $8-$35 per quart, depending on the brand and type.
- Wood bleach: $15-$30 per quart.
- Sandpaper: $5-$10 per pack.
- Brushes: $1-$20 each, depending on the type and quality.
- New hardware: $2-$20 per piece, depending on the style and material.
Remember, these are just estimates, and actual costs can vary. Also, remember that if you don’t already have some of the necessary tools (like brushes or sandpaper), you’ll need to factor those into your budget.
Professional Service Costs
If you hire a professional to modernize your cherry wood furniture, the cost will typically be much higher. Professional furniture refinishers often charge by the hour, and the total cost can depend on the size and complexity of the piece. Here’s a general idea of what you might expect to pay:
- Professional furniture refinishing: $200-$1,000+ per piece. This includes stripping, sanding, and refinishing (painting or staining) the piece.
- Professional furniture painting: $100-$700 per piece, depending on the size and detail of the piece.
- Professional furniture restoration (for antique or valuable pieces): $200-$2,000+ per piece, depending on the piece’s age, condition, and value.
Again, these are just estimates, and actual costs can vary. Getting quotes from several professionals before deciding on one is always a good idea.
Benefits of Modernizing Cherry Wood Furniture
Modernizing cherry wood furniture can offer a host of benefits. Whether you’re looking to update your home’s aesthetics or increase its value, here are some of the key advantages:
Improved Aesthetics
One of the most immediate benefits of modernizing cherry wood furniture is the improved aesthetics. A fresh coat of paint, a new stain, or updated hardware can transform an outdated piece into a stylish, contemporary item that enhances your home’s overall look.
Increased Home Value
Modern, well-maintained furniture can also contribute to your home’s value. Updated furniture can make your property more appealing to potential buyers if you plan to sell your home. Even if you’re not planning to sell, modernizing your furniture can be a worthwhile investment that enhances your living space.
Personal Satisfaction
There’s also a great deal of personal satisfaction that comes from modernizing your furniture. Whether doing it yourself or overseeing the process, seeing a piece transform from outdated to chic can be incredibly rewarding. Plus, it lets you put a personal touch on your home decor.
Sustainability
Modernizing existing furniture is also a more sustainable choice than buying new. It reduces demand for new resources and helps to keep usable items out of landfills. This benefit can’t be overlooked in a world where sustainability is increasingly important.
Cost Savings
Finally, modernizing cherry wood furniture can be more cost-effective than buying new pieces. Even if you hire a professional, updating existing furniture is often less than purchasing new furniture, especially for high-quality cherry wood pieces.
Updating Queen Anne Furniture
Queen Anne style furniture, with its distinctive cabriole legs, ornate detailing, and rich cherry wood, is a classic choice for traditional interiors. However, if your design tastes lean more towards the contemporary, you might wonder how to make Queen Anne furniture look modern. Here are some strategies to consider:
Painting
One of the most straightforward ways to modernize Queen Anne furniture is by painting it. A fresh coat of paint in a modern color can instantly transform the look of a piece. For example, you might choose a sleek black for a dramatic, contemporary look, or a soft gray for a more subtle, updated feel. Remember to properly prep your furniture before painting to ensure a smooth, lasting finish.
Changing Hardware
If your Queen Anne furniture features hardware, such as drawer pulls or knobs, replacing these with more modern options can make a significant difference. Look for hardware with clean lines and a contemporary finish, like brushed nickel or matte black.
Reupholstering
Changing the fabric can be an effective way to modernize for upholstered Queen Anne furniture, such as chairs or sofas. Choose a modern pattern or color fabric to give your piece a fresh, updated look.
Pairing with Modern Decor
Even without making changes to the furniture, you can modernize Queen Anne pieces by carefully curating the decor around them. Pair your Queen Anne furniture with modern lighting, contemporary rugs, and minimalist artwork to create a balanced, eclectic look that feels fresh and timeless.
FAQs
How can I tone down the color of my cherry wood furniture?
One way to tone down the color of cherry wood is by using a tinted finish or stain. Choose a color that’s lighter than the current color of the wood. You can also consider bleaching the wood before applying the finish or stain to lighten it further.
Can I modernize my cherry wood furniture without painting it?
Absolutely! There are several ways to modernize cherry wood furniture without painting it. This includes techniques like sanding, bleaching, changing hardware, or even reupholstering.
How can I modernize my cherry wood furniture on a budget?
A: If you’re on a budget, consider DIY methods like painting or changing the hardware. These methods can be cost-effective and significantly change your furniture’s look.
Can modernizing my cherry wood furniture increase my home’s value?
Modern, well-maintained furniture can contribute to your home’s overall appeal and value, especially if you plan to sell.
Final Thought
Modernizing cherry wood furniture can be rewarding and breathe new life into your pieces. Whether you paint, stain, bleach, change hardware, or combine these methods, you can transform your traditional cherry wood furniture into modern pieces that enhance your home’s aesthetics.
The benefits of modernizing your cherry wood furniture extend beyond just aesthetics. It’s also a more sustainable choice than buying new, can increase your home’s value and provide a great deal of personal satisfaction.
