The Empty Nester Table

 

One of the things you learn from many years of corporate moves is that your furniture doesn't always fit well in the new house.

Case in point: our big pine farmhouse table.

This table and hutch worked well when our houses had dining rooms. The downsize cottage, however, does not have a dining room. The table is pretty large for this space, but we've made it work for the last five years.

But as Sam is getting ready to go off to college this month, this big table seemed really silly for just Ed and myself on a daily basis.

In the meantime, I was constantly looking for an alternative. I really wanted a round table with a leaf that could be added for the holidays or big family meals when all the boys are in town.

If you've been furniture shopping lately, you will know how hard it is to find something that a.) you like and b.) is in stock and c.) doesn't cost a fortune. This spring, I finally found one that I liked! Something traditional and cottage style that will fit better in this space. I waited for a good sale (fourth of July weekend!), and we placed the order. And good news! It's coming this week!

We also ordered matching stools for the nearby kitchen island. I am anxious to see how it all works together!

After it all arrives, I have plans for this hutch. The new furniture is a creamy white color. My plan is to paint the hutch to match the new table and chairs. At the back of the hutch, I am going to install a maple beadboard that will tie it in with the maple of the kitchen cabinets. I think the touch of warm maple wood will look lovely, and it will do a much better job of showcasing my collection of dishes, like my Ironstone.

And speaking of dishes, aren't these adorable? I found these Pioneer Woman Melamine plates and bowls on the Walmart website this spring. Adorable!

We've been using them all summer long. I love lightweight melamine for casual dining. They're great for carrying out to the deck for dinner al fresco!

The old table and chairs will go in storage until we decide what to do with them.

Stay tuned! Hopefully, I will have photos to show you later this week!