Local Furniture Restyler Breathes New Life Into Heirloom Pieces

At first glance, you might find the sight of Dana Manning hard at work at her west Houston home a little…odd.

Donning a gas mask and paint-splattered clothes, she’s in her garage tackling grandma’s old chest of drawers stripping down the discolored, chipping veneer of the disco era. Meanwhile, in stark opposition, her business partner, Murdoch, is fast asleep in the grassy shade dreaming of chasing tennis balls. His loyal show of support is unending, and pretty unhelpful.

As The Dandelion Tree business name suggests, she’s one breath of fresh air away from granting all your antique furniture wishes. Just close your eyes and dream a dream, and she’ll bring your piece back to life.

Dana first dreamt of a way to salvage nostalgic family pieces and vintage finds instead of sending them to their unsavory doom at the dump pile. Cherished memories around mom’s kitchen table. Ensuring Grandpa’s handmade dresser survives generations to come. An old rocking horse that’s saddled every cousin in succession. A neighbor’s hutch that would perfectly display your vintage plate collection. Aunt Mary’s sewing machine table that helped stitch together the fabric of your entire family. 

Not every piece of furniture, clothing and knick knack Uncle Sal had hoarded over his 82 years is meant to be saved. But, THAT piece. You know the one…would be a gift to preserve. Enter your furniture fairy godmother.

Specializing in sanding, staining and painting wooden treasures, one look through her project gallery and your creative juices are sure to start flowing. But, even if you’re more left-brained inclined, Dana is happy to consult and brainstorm ideas that would be a perfect fit for your piece. 

From upright pianos, to children’s bookshelves, and every piece in between, out-dated doesn’t have to mean out of options. Dana shares her expertise in finding the right shade, the right solution and the right feel for every project that comes her way. 

As a busy mom to three, she knows preserving memories and savoring time are at the core of many families’ priorities. And, while you might have every intention in saving that perfect piece, you’re just not sure how, or when?? 

“I know you could TOTALLY DIY that dresser!” Dana exclaims, “But, you don’t have time. Between dance lessons, swim lessons and soccer games, there’s not much free time in your schedule for a project. But, I’ve got time! And I promise I can have it back to you before the kids go to college.”

Whether you’re facing a DIY disaster, a damaging mishap or you’re just plain Clueless in Katy on where to even start, Dana is your answer. Her years of experience as a stain mixologist, paint swatch visionary and a sanding warhorse ensures your piece will be returned in better shape than ever. With a fresh style to fit your home, and a whisper of the history still intact. 

If it’s a furniture rebirth you’re looking for, visit Dana’s website at TheDandelionTree.com to scroll her before & after gallery, and to book an in-person or virtual consultation to pick her brain and make a wish. 

You can also follow along with all of her project restyles on her Facebook & Instagram pages @thedandeliontreedesigns. 

—

spec article written by Lauren Piland

photos by Dana Manning