The Versatility of Midcentury Chest of Drawers: A Canvas for Paint, Wallpaper, and Prints

Few furniture pieces carry the timeless charm and adaptability of the midcentury chest of drawers. With their clean lines, tapered legs, and minimalist aesthetic, these classics are more than just storage—they’re style statements waiting to be reimagined.

What makes midcentury chests especially compelling today is how easily they can be customized with paint, wallpaper, and printed accents, transforming them from vintage staples into standout pieces that reflect your personal taste. Whether you're working with a flea market find or a beloved heirloom, here’s how you can turn a midcentury dresser into a work of art.

Midcentury Drawers given a new lease of life with black and nature inspired print

Why Midcentury Chests Are Perfect for Customization

Midcentury furniture was designed with simplicity and utility in mind. That streamlined design makes it an ideal blank canvas for creative updates. Their typically flat drawer fronts and geometric silhouettes are perfect for experimenting with color and pattern without losing their iconic appeal.

1. Painted Finishes: From Classic to Bold

A fresh coat of paint can completely change the vibe of a midcentury chest of drawers.

• Neutral Tones: Soft whites, muted greys, or earthy beiges enhance the minimalist appeal and work well in Scandinavian or Japandi interiors.

• Bold Colors: Deep navy, forest green, ochre, or terracotta can add a modern twist and turn the piece into a vibrant focal point.

• Two-Tone Finishes: Keep the original wood on some areas (like the top or legs) and paint the drawer fronts for contrast and character.

Tip: Use matte or satin finishes to preserve that midcentury elegance, and don’t be afraid to swap the hardware for something sleek and complementary.

2. Wallpapered Drawer Fronts: Pattern with Personality

Adding wallpaper to drawer fronts is one of the most creative and low-commitment ways to personalize a midcentury piece.

• Geometric Prints: Echo the era’s love for modernism with retro geometrics in bold colors or metallic accents.

• Botanicals: Create a soft, boho or cottagecore vibe with floral or leaf patterns.

• Textured Wallpapers: Grasscloth, linen-look, or faux snakeskin wallpapers add tactile interest and a touch of luxury.

How-To Tip: Use spray adhesive or wallpaper paste, then seal with a clear matte polyurethane for durability.

An old Avalon chest of drawers becomes a punchy bright orange creation with a contemporary london skyline print

3. Art Prints: Inside and Out

For those who love detail, decoupaging art prints onto parts of the chest can create a piece that tells a story.

• Drawer Interiors: Line the inside of drawers with vintage botanical illustrations, maps, or abstract art for a hidden surprise.

• Side Panels or Backing Boards: Mount prints on the back of a freestanding chest (especially useful if it’s floating in a room) or on the sides for visual interest from all angles.

You can also display framed prints above the chest to tie the whole look together—think bold abstract pieces or minimalist line drawings that match your dresser’s new color palette.

Bonus: Midcentury Chests in Every Room

The beauty of a chest of drawers lies in its versatility beyond the bedroom:

• Entryway: Store keys, scarves, and shoes while giving guests a stylish welcome.

• Dining Room: Use as a sideboard for linens and servingware.

• Living Room: Store games, remotes, and media while anchoring a gallery wall.

• Nursery or Office: Add whimsy or professionalism with the right print and color combo.

Wherever you place it, your personalized piece becomes both functional and artistic.

A steampunk bedroom theme calling for skulls and snakes. Using black paint will make any print, pop!

Final Thoughts

Midcentury chest of drawers are timeless for a reason—but with a little creativity and the right combination of paint, wallpaper, and prints, they can become completely unique reflections of your personal style.

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or simply want a statement piece that no one else has, don’t underestimate the power of this vintage staple. With just a bit of imagination, a midcentury chest can go from simple storage to standout centerpiece.

Ready to transform your own? Let the clean lines of midcentury design guide you—and let your creativity do the rest