Bar Makeover: Phase One

*This post is sponsored by Dutch® Boy Paints

Now that the ceiling is finally complete, the next big project in our parlor room is our bar, and

this thing is just oozing with potential. I always thought that it already looked mostly great (it

definitely needed some love), but I knew that there were ways that I could make it more my

style.

I started by using a feather finish to cover the step, which was in terrible condition from ripping

the tile off. This was as easy as spreading it on and sanding it down. I used my palm sander,

which I attached to my shop vac to reduce dust. Though easy, that step in this process was

important, but not necessarily the star of the show. If you ask me, the part of this

transformation that makes the biggest difference is the front of the bar. The actual face of the

bar was just cheap particle board, and I knew I wanted to do something with it to make a

statement. I started by covering the face in pole wrap, which, though difficult to find these

days, is an incredibly easy and effective way to make a statement on a project.

I attached the pole wrap to the bar using my finish nailer. After finishing any holes and caulking

the seams between the wall and the step, I used Dutch Boy® Platinum Plus® Cabinet, Door and

Trim paint for coverage that I know will hold up to any feet taps. I used this same paint on the railing of our back stairs, and I have been really happy with how well it has held up. I chose

the color Warmed Silver, which is a beautiful beige with some hints of grey. I put two coats on,

and the neutral color looks absolutely gorgeous against our floors and the bar rail.

Speaking of bar rail…I almost forgot! I sanded the mahogany down to bare wood before using a

2:1 bleach and water mixture to get rid of some of the red tones. I put two coats on, but I

definitely could have done a few more. It was as easy as wiping it on and waiting 3-4 hours

between coats. I’ll definitely be trying this wood bleaching method again sometime!

Last but not least- what would a bar be without a bar top?! After trying the feather finish to

begin with, I ended on using a premixed concrete patch for the top. I preferred this to the

feather finish, because the sanding of the feather finish ends up giving a bit of a color variety,

and I wanted the top to be uniform.

BAR AFTER

BAR BEFORE

I have to say- these updates were EASY, and I absolutely think that anyone can do them. It’s

amazing to me what a difference some paint can make in a room or on a piece. Next up- backsplash and painted cabinets!