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Writer's pictureGina Gaurisas-Wilson
Dec 31, 20242 min read

Elevating a Mid-Century Modern dresser with new legs


Mid-Century Modern wooden dresser with orchid and bowl on top, set against a beige wall. A round mirror reflects part of a white door. Warm, minimalist vibe.
Photo: Gina Gaurisas-Wilson


This Mid-Century Modern style dresser with clean lines and graceful pulls stood very flat on the floor, resulting in a heavy boxy look. Additionally, the bottom drawers were too low to reach comfortably without excess bending. The solution needed to be simple, just like the style. 


Mid-Century Modern dresser in warm teak veneer, six drawers and a flat base. Simple and classic design.
Mid-Century Modern dresser before legs were added. Photo: Gina Gaurisas-Wilson


Adding legs to elevate the dresser would solve the boxy look while making access to the bottom drawers more comfortable.


But...the footprint of the dresser is not just a plain rectangular box. The middle and side walls project 7/8" outwards toward the front in relation to its base. Elevating by just adding legs, without dealing with this simple-but-important detail, would have resulted in a piece that appeared disproportionate and forced.


It was important to create a transition between the dresser and the new legs—like they belonged to each other.


Mid-Century Modern wooden dresser with six drawers, set against a light wall. Bright red flowers are on top, creating a cozy and warm atmosphere.
The new bottom frame follows the footprint of the dresser | Photo: Gina Gaurisas-Wilson

I designed and fabricated both the legs and also a frame that followed the unusual footprint, giving it some flair appropriate for this Mid-Century Modern dresser.


The new bottom frame adds depth to the structure of the dresser, and the overall look is more cohesive with the projecting walls.


The total height increase was 6 inches. The new parts were built in solid cherry to best match the color tone of the dresser's teak veneer.




Mid-century modern wooden dresser with six drawers, set against a light-colored wall and hardwood floor, conveying a minimalist style.
Photo: Gina Gaurisas-Wilson


Because the finish on this dresser was in good condition, it only needed a light cleaning to freshen up. Only necessary resources with minimal waste were utilized for the new frame and legs.



Simplicity is beauty, and in many cases less is more.


Mid-Century Modern wooden dresser with a round mirror and a potted orchid on top. Warm tones, sleek design in a minimal, well-lit room.
Dresser restyled by Furniture Restyler | Photo: Gina Gaurisas-Wilson


Restyling existing furniture is more eco-friendly than getting brand new furniture. Find out more about the things you can do to be “truly eco-friendly"  



Before and after image of a wooden Mid-Century dresser. The after version features a purple orchid on top. Labels indicate "BEFORE" and "AFTER."
Dresser restyled by Furniture Restyler | Photo: Gina Gaurisas-Wilson

If you are a Do It Yourselfer who needs a little help with making the best of your furniture project, check my budget-friendly design advice for DIYers. Details matter, and they make a difference in the final result of the restyled piece.




Thanks for reading.


I would like to hear from you. I don't monitor this post, but feel free to contact me with questions or comments at gina@furniturerestyler.com



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