Mecox Guides
Practical, expert-led guides on caring for, styling, and living with fine furniture, antiques, and decorative art — written by the Mecox team, the leading authority in sourcing and stewarding one-of-a-kind pieces.

Style a marble top dining table by balancing heights, mixing materials, and applying the rule of thirds for a harmonious look.
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Faux shagreen is a synthetic material mimicking the texture of stingray skin, crafted from resin or leather, offering a durable, luxurious finish.
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Select a small sitting stool for your bedroom by considering scale, circulation, and design to enhance both functionality and style.
Read the guide →Antique benches, originating in medieval Europe, evolved from functional seating to decorative art pieces, reflecting diverse styles and craftsmanship.
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Vintage chests of drawers originated in the 17th century as practical storage. They evolved from simple chests to intricate designs, reflecting changing styles.
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Small antique side stools originated in 16th-century Europe as compact, portable seating, evolving in style and use over centuries.
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The Golden Stool, crafted by the Ashanti people, symbolizes authority and unity. It has evolved in form but retains its cultural significance.
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Restore an old garden bench by cleaning, sanding, repairing, and repainting. Use wood filler for cracks, sand surfaces, and apply weather-resistant paint.
Read the guide →Vintage rattan furniture, originating from Southeast Asia, became popular in Western interiors post-1850s, evolving from colonial verandas to modern homes.
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For lasting outdoor rattan furniture, prioritize solid construction, durable materials, and high-quality finishes.
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The chest of drawers originated in 17th-century Europe as a practical storage solution, evolving from simple box forms to ornate designs.
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Select a narrow tall chest of drawers for your space by focusing on circulation, sightlines, and scale. Opt for re-edition Italian designs with versatile finishes.
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Select an outdoor patio coffee table by considering your space's size, circulation, and weather conditions, using materials like faux bois or stone.
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The best outdoor side tables use weather-resistant materials, expert joinery, and protective finishes for durability and style.
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Select the best outdoor coffee table by examining construction, materials, finish, and detail. Discover pieces that exemplify these criteria.
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Arrange rattan coffee tables using the rule of thirds, layer heights, and mix finishes for a balanced, inviting space.
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Decorate a rattan coffee table using the rule of thirds, layering heights, and mixing finishes. Use odd numbers and leave negative space.
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Style a rattan console table by using the rule of thirds, layering heights, and mixing finishes. Balance negative space with decor elements.
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Use marble table decor with the rule of thirds, layering heights, and mixing finishes to create a balanced, sophisticated arrangement.
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A mahogany table is a piece of furniture crafted from mahogany wood, prized for its strength, deep color, and fine grain. It ages beautifully, developing a rich patina.
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Style a coffee table and ottoman by layering heights, using odd numbers, and mixing materials like oak and brass for a balanced look.
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Marble table tops vary by color, veining, finish, and thickness. High-quality pieces exhibit uniformity and craftsmanship, without excessive chips.
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Define a theme, choose focal points, use the rule of thirds, aim for odd numbers, mix materials, and utilize negative space.
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Choose a painting by considering quality, materials, finish, proportions, and craftsmanship details to ensure longevity and suitability.
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Hang a painting 60-75% the width of your couch, with the bottom edge slightly above the sofa for balanced visual harmony.
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Choose art by considering space constraints: vertical pieces for corners, wide art for low ceilings, and gallery styles for narrow halls.
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Examine craftsmanship, wear patterns, signatures, materials, and composition to collect art like a connoisseur. Consider condition, rarity, and demand.
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Style a marble tabletop by balancing visual weight, using the rule of thirds, layering heights, and incorporating negative space.
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Faux marble table tops mimic real marble using materials like resin or laminate, offering durability, low maintenance, and realistic appearance.
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Style nesting side tables by using varied heights, the rule of thirds, and layering materials for depth while maintaining visual balance.
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Wicker outdoor furniture is made from woven materials like rattan or synthetic fibers, offering durability and style for outdoor use.
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A rechargeable table lamp is a portable light with a built-in battery, offering cord-free use and versatile lighting for various settings.
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Style a console table by using the rule of thirds, layering heights, and odd numbers. Mix textures and balance elements for visual interest.
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Choose brass table lamps with solid construction, uniform finish, and balanced proportions for durability and timeless appeal.
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Nesting side tables are versatile sets of smaller tables that fit together or separate for use, maximizing space and functionality.
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Decorate nesting coffee tables by layering sizes, using odd numbers of decor items, mixing materials, and incorporating negative space.
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Teak outdoor furniture is made from durable teak wood, resistant to water and decay, with a rich hue that ages to a silvery patina.
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Dust with a microfiber cloth, clean with soapy water, rinse, and dry. Avoid acidic cleaners to protect your marble table.
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Dust rattan chairs regularly, clean with a damp cloth, avoid sunlight, and apply natural oil biannually to maintain their condition.
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