If you’ve followed along for a few years, you may remember the free MCM couch I found.  Before I rescued it, it was in the elements, used as a smoking bench.  And in very rough, stinky shape.  Think hazmat suit to touch the cushions gross.

So I pitched the cushions, upholstered a long, single seat and refinished the wood.

When we moved it was still in great shape.  Because we have a covered deck area, I put the bench out there.  Despite being covered, the elements took a toll on the poor guy.  Sun beaten and driving rain doesn’t do a body, um couch, good.  Time to refinish it.  Again.  I lightly sanded it all down and gave it another coat of Minwax Dark Walnut.  In lieu of a polyurethane finish, I used Watco’s Teak Oil.  

We used it on the wood kitchen counters at the last house and loved it.  Minimal sanding required and it can be applied as needed.  After two coats, the wood has a soft, low sheen.

When I decided to refinish this sofa, I knew he wouldn’t be going back outside.  No siree.  Our living room furniture needs serious help (as in replacement) and this is one small step in the right direction.

Sleek lines, dark wood, and navy upholstery.  I’m channeling Emily Henderson, folks.

I’m undecided how I feel about the upholstered seat versus a removable, flippable cushion long-term.  This was much easier.  If I want to make a cushion, I’d have to add cross supports then plywood for the foam to rest on.  And then buy new foam and sew a cushion.

Maybe I’ll get the urge to try it.  What do you think?  It’s actually really comfortable with a pillow as the back and keeps it looking light.

Unlike out hulking sectional.  Getting a new sofa would make such a big difference in here.

Sadly, this room hasn’t gotten much attention in the time we’ve lived here.  The entertainment center is new and we took out the small arch above the railing.  As you can see, that hasn’t been finished.  Drywall dust is a serious mess and I don’t have the patience to deal with it yet.  Once I make one change to a room, I want to rework the rest of the space.  Like maybe painting the railing and new color on the walls.  Eventually we’ll replace the windows (these two front ones don’t match the rest of the house) and we want to build a window seat below with bookshelves on either side.  And that chair needs some lovin’.  Maybe a fun paint color for the frame and a neutral fabric?  Suggestions?