There are only a few ways being “distressed” can be good, and furniture is one of them. I love the look of distressed furniture because it already looks lived in. I like furniture that’s livable. That’s just what works for my family. Anything too shiny, formal or delicate doesn’t fit us—and doesn’t stay looking that way for long. So our best furniture choices are ones already slightly distressed—since everything ends up looking distressed here eventually anyway. At least this way we’re a little stylish.

One of our favorite pieces is the French Oak Extendable Farmhouse Kitchen Table. It’s just my style. Or the style I want anyway. It’s solid and classic, yet comfortable and relaxed. I love the finish and the way it looks with the creamy linen upholstered dining chairs.

I can just picture this table with a big family meal set out under 100-year old oak trees, with mismatched chairs and wildflowers in mason jars…Ok, I’m letting my imagination run wild. Realistically, it wouldn’t be outside, it would be in my (desperately-in-need-of-a-makeover) dining room. And when it’s not being used, it will hold homework, craft projects and papers to be filed. But I think I’ll add the fresh flowers in mason jars to keep the dream alive.

Some look at clothing catalogs and get excited, I feel that way about furniture and decorating. When I see something I like, I want it. And I really like Baker's Rack Shelving pictured above.

This is such a stylish way to display a favorite objects. The Bakers Rack Shelving is fun and functional. It’s open and has lots of room for displaying things. And with my favorite Studio finish, it’s already “pre-distressed” for my family, so fingerprints and dings from passing dump trucks and fire engines won’t be as noticeable.