Rustic doesn’t have to mean rough, and feminine doesn’t have to mean frilly. When thoughtfully combined, these two styles can create a stunning balance of warmth, texture, and elegance. It’s super easy to blend rugged charm with soft, graceful details using warm and earthy colours like Chestnut Mare. This mid-tone terracotta colour sets the stage for a transformation that feels both grounded and romantic, bringing some softer elements to a very bold form. Blending these two styles becomes effortless and enjoyable with a cohesive colour palette, and Chestnut Mare offers the perfect balance, grounding both masculine and feminine elements in rich, warm harmony. For today’s project, we’re taking this dark desk and giving it a much lighter feel. Here is a look at the piece before A Fusion of Rustic Warmth and Elegance with Chestnut Mare:
Below is a list of supplies you’ll need to complete a similar project.
- Fusion TSP Alternative + Wiping Cloths
- Fusion Mineral Paint “Chestnut Mare”
- Fusion Gel Stain “Double Espresso”
- Fusion Ultra Guard Matte
- Fusion Metallics – Gold
- Electric Sander and Sanding Pads/Paper
- Staalmeester Scrapers
- Gloves
- Foam Brush
- Painter’s Tape
- Fusion Synthetic Brush
- Artist Brush
Prep for a Durable Finish
Changing the vibe of this piece means we need to be intentional with our prep work to achieve the desired look. Since we’re transitioning from a dark, previously painted finish to something softer and lighter, it’s important to address any surface issues that could impact the final result. The first step is removing the hardware and setting it aside for cleaning and painting—just be sure to keep all the screws together so nothing gets lost.
As we tackle the larger surface areas, it’s important to understand the type of wood you’re working with to ensure you achieve the desired finish. This piece had a very thin veneer top, so instead of risking damage by sanding through it or dealing with messy chemical strippers, we opted to use the new Staalmeester scrapers. These heavy-duty tools are built for everything from simple cleaning to veneer removal and wood shaving. We used the large flat scraper to lift off the old stain and finish, which made smoothing the surface with 200-grit sandpaper a breeze.
This desk features a beautifully ornate front with carved columns that had layers of paint and sealer packed into the tiniest crevices. Using the detail scraper, we were able to gently loosen and lift the buildup from those intricate areas. It’s the perfect tool for cleaning hard-to-reach spots where a sander can’t fit.
For the sections where stripping the old finish wasn’t necessary, we used our electric sander with sanding pads to lightly scuff the surface. This step was essential to create enough texture for the Fusion paint to properly adhere, especially since we were working over a previously painted finish.
After all the sanding and scraping, we decided it was important to thoroughly clean the desk using our Fusion TSP solution to remove any remaining dust and debris. Once cleaned, we let it air dry for an hour before moving on to the next step of our project.
Chestnut Mare: Rustic Warmth and Elegance
We chose colours from opposite ends of the spectrum for this project, believing that the rich details of this dark desk deserved to stand out rather than blend into the background. To complement the piece’s character and align with the rustic yet feminine aesthetic we envisioned, we selected Chestnut Mare. Its warm terracotta hue brings in soft peach and amber tones, adding warmth to your space while beautifully balancing deeper, woodsy elements.
The first coat of Chestnut Mare applied effortlessly, gliding on smoothly, and creating a soft, velvety matte finish. We achieved full coverage with just two coats, and interestingly, the colour appeared even more vibrant when layered over a darker base. Seal with your choice of sealer, though here we used Fusion’s Ultra Guard.
The final step in our project was staining the desktop. We opted for a darker finish and, since the surface is a veneer, we wanted a product that would both enhance its appearance and add durability. Fusion’s Gel Stain was the perfect choice! This oil-based formula forms a tough, long-lasting polyurethane layer that protects against everyday use. It’s easy to apply with your preferred brush and can be feathered out for a smooth, natural look.
TIP: Gel Stain is not a wipe-back product, so for a flawless application, we recommend using Staalmeester natural bristle brushes. If you happen to apply too much stain, simply use a foam brush to absorb the excess and blend.
A Polished Finale
The final reveal brought all the elements together in the most stunning way. The warm, rich tones of Chestnut Mare created a cozy, inviting base. Beautifully complemented by the dark stained top that added just the right touch of depth and contrast. To enhance the warmth of the piece, we styled it with burnt copper boxes and sunset-hued accents. These finishing touches added a soft, feminine elegance with a hint of bold sophistication
Our Double Espresso Gel Stain delivered a deep, rich chocolate finish that adds both beauty and durability to the desk’s top. This hard-wearing, oil-based formula is especially ideal for veneer surfaces, as it helps seal in moisture and provides long-lasting protection. It prevents the veneer from drying out, chipping, or flaking—ensuring the piece stays beautiful for years to come.
Decorative accents add a refined touch of elegance that beautifully complements the rustic charm of the piece. We used Fusion’s Metallic Gold and applied it to the ornate details and hardware. It’s a perfect blend of strength and beauty, giving this project an eye-catching harmony that ties the look together.
Chestnut Mare proved to be the perfect choice for creating a rich, warm foundation that balances rustic character with soft, feminine charm. From the deep, inviting tones to the subtle metallic accents and sunset-inspired décor, this piece is a stunning example of how contrasting styles can come together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re drawn to rustic warmth, elegant details, or a little of both, Chestnut Mare offers endless possibilities for creating a look that’s uniquely yours. We loved blending these design elements and watching this piece come to life!
Love this colour story? Let us know if you’d like to see more projects using Chestnut Mare or similar feminine-rustic combinations! We’d be happy to share more inspiration!