Not All Furniture is Created Equal: Honoring Unique Pieces
- msteele10
- May 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 6
Some furniture pieces are built with heart. They have weight and are made from real wood that stands the test of time. Unfortunately, in a world of fast furniture and fleeting trends, even these solid beauties can end up abandoned or forgotten.
That's Where I Come In
As a furniture artist, I see potential where others see trash.
My painted furniture journey isn't just about giving something a new look; it's about honoring the story behind each piece and giving it new purpose. Every chair, dresser, or vanity I rescue is made from real wood—no pressboard and no shortcuts.
These are the types of pieces that deserve a second life. With bold colors, rich textures, and artisan-quality furniture paint (DIY paint by Debi’s Design Diary), I transform them into functional works of art.
The Meaning Behind the Transformation
Do you remember your prom? You weren't looking for just any dress; you were searching for the one. The one that felt like you. The one that no one else would wear. The one that made you stand out and feel seen. That's what I strive to bring into the world of furniture.
When I create a piece, I’m not trying to copy a Pinterest trend or fit into a showroom catalog. Instead, I create something that represents individuality. My custom-painted furniture makes your home feel uniquely yours. It becomes a statement piece that anchors a space, tells a story, and sets a mood.
You shouldn't look at your neighbor's living room and say, “Oh, I have that table too.” You should be able to say, “No one else has this, and that's exactly why I love it.”
The Heart of a Furniture Artist
Many of the pieces I paint come from unexpected places. Some were dropped off at thrift stores, while others were left behind in basements. Some I have even pulled off the curb—discarded, dismissed, and forgotten.
Yet, I see something in these pieces that sparks creativity. Maybe it’s the curve of a leg, the shape of a drawer, or the way the wood grain catches the light. That is where the journey begins. These pieces are made to last. More importantly, they are Made To Matter.
Golden Reflections: A Story in Silliness
Some pieces speak to you immediately. Others take their time, like Golden Reflections, a vintage highboy dresser that sat in my studio for a long while. Its structure was strong, but its design was elusive. I wanted it to feel bold and dramatic, yet it also needed serenity.
That's when I started to think about water—not the crashing power of ocean waves, but the serene stillness of a lake. When still, a lake mirrors everything around it: the trees, the sky, and the sunlight's shimmer. Sometimes, it looks so quiet and deep green, it resembles glass. Every now and then, a single fish leaps, sending ripples outward into infinity.
That moment—the shimmer, the calm, the ripple—was the inspiration behind Golden Reflections. The layered green and blue tones echo the tranquil depth of a forest lake, while golden accents shimmer like sunlight on water. The hand-drawn trees across the top drawers are a whisper of the world around that stillness.
Painting this piece felt like floating—quiet, thoughtful, and reflective. Now, it stands as a piece that tells a story while bringing peace to any space it enters. Just like the lake, it doesn't shout; it simply invites you in.
For Those Who Want More
My purpose behind this message is for those who crave more than just “pretty” furniture.
You want pieces with personality. You want items that tell a story and hold meaning. You seek a space that reflects your creativity, strength, and style. It should be something bold, soulful, and utterly unique—something no one else will have because it wasn't mass-produced. It was made with someone like you in mind.
Whether you're drawn to rich colors, eclectic styles, vintage character, or simply want something that can't be bought at a big box store—this is for you.
This is What it Means to be MadetoMatter
This message extends beyond paint and polish.
It's about sustainability.
It's about reclaiming the forgotten.
It's about taking the time to create with intention.
When you bring one of these unique pieces into your home, you're not merely decorating; you're making a statement:
That beauty and craftsmanship still matter.
That creativity should be celebrated.
That what was once cast aside can become something extraordinary.
Ready to See More?
See my available one-of-a-kind furniture in person at my Front Street Studio, located at 1001 E Second St, Door BC, Suite 1220, Dayton, OH.
Don’t forget to explore the hashtag #MadetoMatter to follow this movement and witness the full transformation journey. Let’s bring back beauty, one bold brush stroke at a time.
I have had SO many compliments on the set I bought from you last fall. It and a friend's paintings have created a living room that makes me smile whenever I come home.