Inspired Style: Spindle Furniture
I love the small, sculptural details that spindle furniture brings to a room. Whether it’s twisty legs, turned spindles, or the classic Jenny Lind bed, those elements add charm and visual interest in a compact, elegant way.
Years ago my mom found a great old chair with spindle legs at an estate sale. It’s been waiting in my garage since our move, but seeing these photos has me eager to give it a fresh makeover and bring it back into the house. Spindle pieces are perfect candidates for a simple paint refresh or light refinishing that highlights their lovely shapes.
Do you have any spindle style furniture?
Land of Nod Jenny Lind Bed
This post begins a short series I’ll share from time to time called “Inspired Style.” The idea is to spotlight furniture shapes and accessory styles to watch for when you shop thrift stores, consignment shops, estate sales, or your favorite local stores. My hope is to inspire you to recognize timeless, thrift-friendly pieces that bring personality and structure to your home.
Spindle furniture works well in many decor styles—from farmhouse and cottage to eclectic and modern—because it reads as both decorative and light. When shopping, look for solid frames, turned detailing that’s intact, and proportions that fit the space you have in mind. Even if the finish is worn, these pieces often respond beautifully to sanding, a fresh coat of paint or stain, and small repairs to hardware or joints.
Ideas for styling spindle pieces:
- Repaint a spindle bed or chair in a soft white or muted color to highlight the turned details without overpowering the room.
- Contrast a dark stained spindle bench against lighter walls and textiles for a grounded, traditional look.
- Pair spindle nightstands or headboards with modern bedding and clean-lined lighting to blend classic form with contemporary ease.
- Use a small spindle side table or accent chair in an entryway for a sculptural touch that remains functional.
When hunting for these finds, be patient and look beyond surface wear—much of the character of spindle furniture comes from its age. If a piece has loose joints, that can usually be tightened or reglued; missing spindles or severe structural damage are the main reasons to pass.
Sources for the images above, left to right by row:
Row 1: 1) Jessica Helgerson via Design Sponge 2) BHG
Row 2: 1) Hallie and Mark Burrier via Apartment Therapy 2) Phoebe Howard
Row 3: 1) Gil Walsh 2) A Country Farmhouse
Note: If you enjoyed this post, stay tuned for more in the “Inspired Style” series where I’ll highlight classic looks to look for when shopping secondhand or browsing local stores.