Hexagon-Tastic Makeover: A French Provincial Coffee Table Reimagined

We never seem to tire of the dramatic change a little paint and refinishing can bring to a tired piece of furniture. That feeling is exactly what inspired Jesse’s impressive coffee table transformation, which he documented on his blog. The result is a striking blend of classic French provincial form with a bold, modern geometric pattern and fresh color.

Originally, the table was heavily lacquered and quite scratched from years of use, but the elegant curves and original woodwork were still intact.

The top of the table featured a lovely diamond inlay that deserved to be revealed, so Jesse stripped the lacquer down to the bare wood. Instead of choosing only wood or only paint, he combined both: he stained the tabletop a deep “dark walnut” and then built a repeating hexagon pattern that lets that dark stain frame and flow through each shape. The geometric motif contrasts beautifully with the table’s traditional silhouette.

The dark walnut stain runs between the hexagons, while a light turquoise underneath adds an unexpected pop of color. The turquoise was an off-the-shelf find from a discount or blemished-paint section, so the exact name is unknown, but the cool tone complements the warm stain and modernizes the piece.

The success of this makeover lies in balancing preservation and reinvention. Jesse respected the table’s original form—the graceful curves and carved elements that define French provincial furniture—while introducing a contemporary paint-and-stain treatment. The dark wood outlines give the hexagons structure and depth, and the light turquoise base provides a fresh, modern contrast that prevents the table from feeling too traditional or predictable.

This project is a great example of how thrifted or secondhand furniture doesn’t need to be dismissed because of surface damage. With careful stripping, selective staining, and a thoughtful paint choice, a dated or over-lacquered piece can become a standout focal point in a room. The geometric pattern is bold but not overpowering, and the combination of wood and paint still allows the furniture’s craftsmanship to shine through.

If you’re hunting for similar pieces at thrift stores or yard sales, look for solid construction and interesting shapes—the rest can often be revived with sanding, stain, and paint. Simple tools and affordable finishes can yield dramatic results when you mix finishes and embrace contrast, like the dark walnut and light turquoise in this makeover.

Didn’t Jesse do an awesome job? Check his blog for more photos and the full story of this makeover.

Psst — have your own before-and-after project? Send your story, photos, and any related links to [email protected] to be considered for a Reader Redesign feature. We love a good furniture transformation and enjoy sharing creative, budget-friendly makeovers.