| Journal | Antique Secretary Desk
Beauty Beheld— Antique Secretary Desk
Antique Secretary Desk anyone?! We all know the saying right?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder— and lucky for me I’m the most recent beholder of this very unique Antique Secretary Desk!
And YES— I painted it! And YES— If I do say so myself, it turned out beautifully!
Perhaps you’ll agree! Perhaps you won’t! Either way, we are each our own individual beholder of beauty!
Antique Secretary Desk
There are some pieces that one needs to pounce on when one sees. This Antique Secretary Desk was of no exception! I’ve only come across a few secretary’s to-date, and this one was most unique! Typically they have 3 shelves, and 4 drawers; and quite often they are in two pieces. This is the first in this style that I’ve come across, and although I stewed what colour(s) to paint it in for several weeks, there was no question that I was going to paint it!
A most unique Antique Secretary Desk transformed in a timeless shade of blue that coordinates ever-so-perfectly with neutral tones. A colour that oozes depth and intention and shines wonderfully when paired with antique brass decor! A versatile antique that will undoubtedly add a charming touch of modern farmhouse feel to your home, cottage, or even storefront! 3 options for shelving placement, plenty of drawer storage, and if preferred— chicken wire can be replaced with new glass for the door fronts.
All products mentioned in this post—and every post I share—are ones I regularly reach for. They’ve earned a spot in my toolbox because they’re reliable and deliver results. Simply what I use, trust, and recommend, shared honestly with you. No affiliate links, no commissions—just straight talk from my whole heart.
Fusion Mineral Paint
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These are the products that brought this transformation to life—ones I trust, recommend, and share honestly with you. Select any to explore other projects for inspiration and see where to buy.
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My Step-by-Step Transformation
These are the steps that brought this transformation to life—shared to guide and inspire your own project. Learn better by talking it through? Let’s connect for a consultation to bring your vision to life.
- Removed original hardware— with delight that it was all intact
Removed glass panes from doors — ever so carefully, for ease of product application - Disassembled drop-desk and cubby — for ease of product application
Lightly sanded down entire piece— to remove flaking finish, and to prepare for product application - Vacuumed and washed— necessary preparation for proper product application
- Applied 2 coats of Zinsser B-I-N Shellac to interior— to prevent highly anticipated bleed through
- Applied 2 coats of Fusion Mineral Paint in the colour Chestler to the entire exterior and cubby— a complicated blue green that is boasting with depth and intention; this shade will make you stop and dive into its abyss of colour; brush application
- Applied 2 coats of Fusion Mineral Paint in the colour Chateau to the interior— a grounding neutral inspired by enchanting castle walls; this shade reflects light beautifully and creates an instant feeling of cozy sophistication; brush application
- Wet and dry distress sanded select areas— for a farmhouse distressed finish; 80 grit sand paper
- Wet sanded all areas— for a smooth and buttery finish; 220 grit sand paper
- Applied 1 coat of Fusion Stain & Finishing Oil (SFO) in the colour Natural ~ a wood conditioner, stain and top coat all in one; applicator pad
- Was washing glass panes for reinstallation— and CRASH…. Nooooooooo! Sized, cut, antique brass sprayed and installed chicken wire on door fronts— and hey, I actually like this better than the glass!
- Decoupaged drawer sides with Re-Design with Prima’s Patina Flourish decoupage tissue paper— A pattern that I feel was an absolute perfect match for this furniture flip; sponge application w/ water-based poly
- Polished original hardware with my go-to Brasso Metal Cleaner— quickly and gently removes tarnish from a range of surfaces, including brass, copper, chrome, stainless steel and pewter
- Opted to install a knob I had on hand on the right door front— the original key had completely lost its’ brass colour and was very tricky with opening and closing the door… I felt a knob was a better option
One-Hour / One-on-One / $80
Looking to achieve a similar look? Getting started with furniture transformations can feel overwhelming, but with hands-on experience since 2017, I’ve learned so much along the way. I’d love to share what I know and help guide you through the process.
Let’s work together! Whether it’s over the phone, via a screen-share session, or even over a coffee (or wine!), we’ll make a plan to bring your vision to life.
With all my heart and hands
Every now and then, a piece like this Antique Secretary Desk comes along and demands a little extra care and vision. Its intricate details, timeless silhouette, and practical functionality deserved a finish that would honor its character while making it relevant for modern spaces. Transforming it was a process of discovery, balancing creativity with respect for its craftsmanship—and the result is a stunning, one-of-a-kind piece that combines elegance and utility, ready to shine in any home or office.
Antiques like this remind us that great design stands the test of time. Whether you’re drawn to the history or the beauty, giving an older piece a fresh perspective can be deeply rewarding.
Thanks for following along on this transformation—it’s proof that even the most unexpected finds can become something extraordinary when given the chance!
Faye Caroline
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