“Revamping the Credenza: 4 Timeless Styles to Breathe New Life into Your Space!”

We frequently discuss what renders something as “outdated” versus timeless, and today’s entry serves as a splendid conversation opener for that. Recently, I chanced upon an old entry that had been erased from my memory. I guess when you produce over 300 blog entries a year for the past 15 years, it’s hard to keep everything in mind (OH NO I FORGOT TO CELEBRATE OUR 15 YEAR BLOG ANNIVERSARY!!!!) I shared it with the team, all of whom weren’t present when we published this article a decade ago, and we collectively agreed that many of them remain entertaining and deserve to be shared again, with updated insights. This was during the time I operated a photo studio, investing considerable time and resources into creating one-of-a-kind content that was non-sponsored, unlike a home setting, but rather a set exclusively for content purposes. We transitioned away from this approach, opting for actual residences instead (hence all the makeovers to my friends’ and family’s places). We also altered our strategy because these projects require substantial effort (which translates to funds) and actual financial resources (which is money). Nowadays (well, in the last 8 years), we strive to “create content” in real homes, maintaining everything beautifully styled, rather than putting effort into styling spaces only to undo them afterward (which seems wasteful), yet there are moments when I long for the chance to explore something like, say, one mantel styled in four different ways. Regardless, without any more delays, please enjoy some Retro EHD content through the lens of 2025:

So, I borrowed this credenza, perhaps from MidCentryLA or Amsterdam Modern – two of my favorite vendors in LA.

“Coastal”

I believe my objective was to demonstrate how you can convey any atmosphere or context through styling, beyond just furniture (this particular item is evidently mid-century Scandinavian). If you’ve been following my journey for a while (THANK YOU), you’re aware that I genuinely appreciate every single style (as reflected in my portfolio). It’s honestly much more challenging than limiting oneself to 1-2 styles. Would I categorize myself as “coastal”? Technically, I hail from the Oregon coast, and I definitely adore vintage seascapes, but no, I wouldn’t say I’m distinctly “coastal” and yet here we are.

I feel that the only aspect that seems a tad old-fashioned is the Manzanita branch – not that there’s anything inherently wrong with it, but there was certainly a phase when we, as stylists, incorporated these into EVERY SINGLE BOOKSHELF. I believe they still fit quite well in a coastal environment for sure. Moreover, that lamp is somewhat dull, yet it’s also fairly acceptable.

I am not quite certain what I did with that lovely piece of ceramics, but I sure do wish to have it now!!!!!!

“Mid-Century”

Alright, this is probably my top choice. I still possess some of these items (which I am both proud of but also, am I a hoarder??). This arrangement was inspired by this stunning Stephanie Vovas photograph which, despite how magnificent it is, we could never seem to place it anywhere permanently. I find it interesting, though it is quite particular and intense (fun fact: I eventually discovered who the actual model was; she turned out to be the ex-wife of a friend of a friend, and learning that made it even stranger to possess it).

I regret to say that I no longer own that blue vessel – WHY??????? Perhaps these retrospective posts are going to be more emotionally challenging than I initially anticipated – not that I require more possessions, yet it does evoke a sense of longing for them (and I feel an unusual nostalgia for the times when I was establishing the business so tirelessly).

“Glam”

UGH. This is fantastic too! However, I would describe this as a touch more classical at this point. Those artworks are stunning (I’m unsure what I did with them, but I hope I managed to sell them for a decent price). This also serves as a reminder of how remarkable the thrifting and vintage purchases are in LA – around here, it’s primarily antique/primitive/rustic, but in LA there exists a genuine variety of styles.

Do you recall when I amassed so. many. heads???? And that azure vase visible on the right? It remains one of my all-time favorites.

Definitely more regency than “glam” or even “traditional,” yet I still appreciate this aesthetic (excluding that picture frame – it’s acceptable, but unremarkable).

“Eclectic”

OH WAIT…. now THIS is my absolute favorite!!!! The artwork is remarkable (I still own the large piece, but I’m heartbroken to mention that I must have either sold or given away the cubist lady painting). The blue lamp I recently sold to my brother for his room (the pair with new shades), and the string art is long gone (which I don’t require, yet I still feel wistful about its absence).

One of my all-time favorite pots was/is that container with the aloe in it – if anyone is aware of who possesses it now, please inform me (I might vaguely recall it being damaged, but I’m not inclined to dwell on that today). I believe the hues in this arrangement are simply exhilarating and delightful to observe.

Which One Is Your Choice?

I feel the next step is to cast your vote – which one do you prefer and which arrangement do you believe remains the strongest 12 years later? Personally, I would gladly reclaim ALL of these items again, which I consider a fantastic indication. What do you think??? “eclectic,” “glam/traditional,” “midcentury,” or “coastal”???

*Images by Tessa Neustadt