Need advice on painting antique furniture? Our experts have the answer!

Anthea Lloyd of Pietermaritzburg writes:  I inherited a few pieces of antique furniture from my mom and they don’t really go with my décor. Although I usually don’t hesitate to paint wood, this time I feel differently as some of the pieces are quite valuable and then, of course, there’s the sentimental value. Should I go ahead and paint or not? 

Jo-Marie Rabe of Piér Rabe Antiques replies: For antiques dealers such as myself, this is always a big no-no. But, of course, the world isn’t just made up of dealers – there are plenty of people who love the painted look.Old furniture is usually more ‘formal’ and sometimes doesn’t complement contemporary spaces.