Turn Antique Furniture into Unique Fixtures

Design schools never include "investment" in the lexicon they teach their students, but they should. Good interior design not only produces visual pleasure, it also enhances the value of a home by adding structural improvements and high-quality fixtures. And for homeowners seeking a return on the money they put into their homes, the art and antiques they buy will do better these days than the equity of the real estate itself.

QUESTION: My husband is good with a hammer and nails but not so good with design. He's built some small pieces of furniture for our home, but I don't want him to attempt a cabinet we need to house a wine bar and some family-room extras. Can you suggest something functional in traditional styling?

ANSWER: You're lucky to have a handy husband, even if he's not the best furniture designer. I've got an idea how you can put his skills to use on a piece that will meet your needs and probably save you some money, too. The first step is to go on an antiquing expedition ... and take your husband along. You might just find an old wardrobe or cabinet that can be converted into a storage unit that includes a wine bar.

The example in the photo has a sink -- certainly be a useful addition -- as well as a work surface and interior lighting. You're not going to find many pieces of this sort on today's commercial market, which is all the more reason to appreciate your husband's carpentry chops. He'll probably be able to install the fittings necessary for transforming a wardrobe into multipurpose unit suitable for the contemporary American home. The interior can be as fancy as you like. But when not in use, the piece will have the traditional look you prefer.

What you see here is a 100-year-old wooden Tuscan wardrobe that's undergone an elegant refitting. Its interior surfaces have been covered with decorative wallpaper, for example.

Something simpler but still attractive can be achieved by painting the background of the interior in a bright color that contrasts with whatever paint you use for the shelves. It isn't necessary to include all of this model's accoutrements in order for a converted cabinet to qualify as a good investment. And the main purpose, in any event, should be to satisfy functional requirements and to look good at the same time.