Same cabinet, two completely different personalities. We refinished this carved quatrefoil-front cabinet in two color stories — a moody slate blue and a black-and-taupe two-tone — to show clients how much color alone can change a piece’s character.
The Cabinet
This case piece features a carved quatrefoil (four-lobed) panel design on its cabinet doors, paired with statement brass ring pulls — details that are made to be shown off with the right finish, and easily lost with the wrong one.
Version One: Slate Blue Lacquer
Finished in a deep, slightly gray-toned blue with a glossy lacquer topcoat, this version leans traditional-meets-moody — the kind of piece that works as a statement bar cabinet or a dining room accent. The restored brass hardware pops against the dark, saturated color.
Version Two: Black & Taupe Two-Tone
The same carved doors read completely differently in black with taupe detailing worked into the quatrefoil recesses — the carving becomes more graphic, almost architectural, rather than soft and traditional.
The Takeaway: Color Direction Matters as Much as Craftsmanship
Both finishes required the same prep and lacquer-grade spray work — the entire difference in feel comes from the color decision. This is why we spend real time on color consultation before ever picking up a sprayer: the “right” finish depends entirely on the room it’s going into.
Have a Carved or Detailed Cabinet?
Pieces with carved paneling, fretwork, or fluting are ideal candidates for a bold lacquer finish, since a sprayed finish keeps every detail crisp. See our painting & lacquer services or send us photos for a free color consultation.
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