Antique Secretary Desk in Lamp White

Elegant MCM Tallboy in Cast Iron Black with Natural Wood Accents

Elevate your space with this exquisitely reimagined Mid-Century Modern tallboy chest. Once bearing a pale, dated finish, it now stuns in a rich cast iron black, beautifully contrasted by solid wood drawers finished in a warm, natural stain. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated—from the elegantly updated black hardware to the refined moldings and drawer groove accents. Smooth-gliding feet have been added for effortless movement across both hardwood and carpet. Measuring 34" W x 17.5" D x 40.5" H, this sophisticated piece offers both function and timeless style—an instant statement in any well-appointed room.

A great customer brought me her paternal grandmother's secretary desk. It is deeply sentimental but she wanted to update the color to fit in her mainly white home.

It was in very good condition requiring just a good wipe with simple green cleaner and a wet cloth to be sure nothing interfered with the paint adhesion after the hardware was removed. There was a water ring on the top that was sanded smooth then shellac sprayed with Zinsser Bull’s Eye spray shellac to seal the area. A few repairs were made including brad nailing the back securely on and a few wood filler areas added.

Fusion Mineral Paint in lamp white was chosen, it is a white with grey undertones. (above shows coat #2 going over the first coat)

I applied 2 coats and found odd red dot bleeding thru, hello Zinsser Bull’s Eye spray shellac. This blocks all bleed thru so once sprayed on and left to dry I was then able to add a final coat of lamp white.

To add some definition, the edges were distressed minimally and had Homestead House salad bowl finish rubbed on them to seal and deepen the wood color, Fusion Mineral Paint black wax was added to the crevices, edges and around the hardware to look aged rather then freshly painted.

Fusion Mineral Paint clear wax was rubbed on the desk top and the shelf top to give added durability for treasures to be displayed.

The inside was wiped with hemp oil to rehydrate the wood and add some shine.

The hardware was cleaned with metal polish bringing the sparkle back and replaced.