Wooden desks that were used decades ago are no longer practical, but they can still be extraordinarily useful. What was once used as a platform to pay bills or complete page after page of homework can be easily updated and reused in creative new ways. With a little paint or sealer and a few simple additions, your outdated wood furniture can become functional again. Consider these creative ways to repurpose an old wooden desk, and give it a second life that is much more colorful and stylish.
Create a Stylish Vanity
An old wooden desk can be turned into a gorgeous vanity for a bathroom or bedroom. Paint the desk to coordinate with an accent color in the room. Use enamel finish instead of latex for a more durable finish that will hold up to a little abuse. Find a framed mirror that will fit the length of the old wooden desk, and paint the frame to match it. After the paint has fully dried, place the mirror on the back of the desk. Lean it against the wall, or attach it directly to the wall behind the desk. If necessary, update the knobs and/or handles. Use the drawers to hold brushes, combs, lotions, makeup and other beauty supplies. It will look phenomenal, and it will function beautifully.
Transform an Old Wooden Desk into an Entryway Table
If your entryway could use a table that provides a little bit of storage and lots of space to openly hold keys and other necessary items, repurpose an old wooden desk. If desired, repaint or refinish it, but do not worry about a few nicks or scratches. They will add character to the furnishing and the surrounding space. Top it with a few small baskets, and place flameless candles in between. It will no longer look like an old wooden desk, especially if the accompanying chair has been repurposed to another area of the home.
Create a Potting Table That Includes an Array of Unique Planters
A potting table is a dream come true for avid gardeners. If you enjoy plants and gardening, why not repurpose an old wooden desk to create a potting table? It can be used to hold more than a few containers of seeds, hand tools and stacks of empty pots. Line the back with an array of unique filled planters. A beautiful potting table in a sunny location can be used to hold live plants. They will look lovely when paired with planting supplies, and they will become the inspiration for many pretty indoor or outdoor displays. Just be sure to properly seal the old wooden desk, especially if it will be used outdoors.
Source: Professional Home Decorating, Crafting and Green Living Experience