CUSTOMIZABLE VINTAGE AMERICAN OF MARTINSVILLE BUFFET
Meet Mariel — the soft-spoken scholar of the American of Martinsville lineage, and easily one of the most sought-after icons in the chinoiserie-modern world. Pieces like her have a cult following for a reason: the hardware whispers “sleek and cultured,” while her legs and base nod respectfully to classic Asian silhouettes. She's the perfect blend of modern intelligence and timeless tradition — the kind of woman who can quote poetry, negotiate a contract, and host a dinner party without breaking a sweat.
Mariel’s nine drawers (three of them tucked discreetly behind her doors) hint at a life of quiet organization — she’s the type who remembers birthdays, keeps travel souvenirs neatly labeled, and can pull out a candle, napkin ring, or holiday card at a moment’s notice. She’s not flashy; she’s intentional. And beneath that gentle poise is a bright, razor-sharp mind. Don’t let her soft voice fool you — she’s a strategist.
Mariel is a Rescue, patiently waiting for her color choice to define her next chapter. Dress her in something daring, something classic, or something entirely unexpected — she’ll carry it with grace and make your home the talk of the town.
Take a peak at McDonald, her long lost sibling, who was done in jet black and converted into a bathroom vanity.
For color inspiration, please visit our Color page or see past buffets that have found new homes for inspiration. The buffet is an ever-popular Rheirloom choice.
Not ready to choose? Reserve this piece now and we'll follow up to finalize details when you're ready.
Further direction on all the above details will follow immediately after purchase. All credits or additions will calculate at checkout.
American of Martinsville
Founded in 1906 by Virginia tobacco producers, American of Martinsville quickly expanded from bedroom to beyond. Their characteristic clean lines and high quality materials have stood the test of time and are highly sought after today. Common materials/features are cherry, walnut, and oak wood, and slatted/louvered doors.
We specialize in high gloss lacquer. We use a waterbased industrial wood lacquer coating, and every layer of primer, color and top coat is catalyzed. It is a very durable finish and will endure for decades with proper care.
Our lacquer finish is catalyzed (2k) at every coat. It is a very durable finish and will endure for decades with proper care. We recommend dusting often and using coasters and protective felt feet on pointed objects.
For cleaning greasy finger prints or dirty smudges, this is the product we use for the "final finish". It is waterbased and will not react with our finish. Do not substitute with a solvent-based finishing spray. We recommend both the Meguiars Final Finish and these microfiber cloths.
Do not use any cleansers with ammonia or other harsh chemicals, it will dull the finish.
We use a waterbased 2k (catalyzed) lacquer. That means we add a catalyst material to our primer, color and top coat with every coat we spray. This catalyst speeds up dry time and produces a much harder and durable surface. A 2k finish is defined as having a catalyst added. A 1k or pre-cat does not have a catalyst added to each coat.
Catalyzed or 2k lacquers are tricky and hard to do. Application is only through professional spray equipment. It dries in a very short amount of time, which also risks damage to the equipment if you don’t time it right. We believe though, the risk is definitely worth the gorgeous outcome!
Finish Options
Our water-based 2k lacquer is available in matte, satin or a high gloss finish. Color options are endless. We often use swatch books from known brands such as Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, Curator or Farrow & Ball. We also have the ability to match to anything you can imagine, apparel, wallpaper, even a napkin. If you find a color you want for a piece, let us know and we can find you a match.
Shipping & Delivery
Local Pickup is always free. Local Delivery within the Portland Metro Area is $200.00, Delivery can usually be arranged within a week or so. Nationwide Shipping is provided by a private network of white glove shippers. Lead times range from 1-4 weeks depending upon season and distance. Rate is determined by your zip code, scale and weight of the piece. Click here for our Furniture FAQs. Pieces smaller than 30" on all sides can be shipped in a double-walled box via USPS, UPS or FedEx Ground. Arrival is usually within 14-21 days.
The Makers
We provide a short background on the brand of every piece we sell. We do our research and love to pass it along. Click on any product and read about their maker.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
Named for my Grandma (& the original designer), the Dorothy Thorpe Espana chest is truly beautiful ~ destined to be a family heirloom. The care and attention to detail Casey gives is remarkable. Love “Dorothy” and have nothing but praise for Casey, the smooth process & beautiful result! Can’t thank you enough.
Thank you so much for the excellent personal service. Millie loves her new home and I love having a beautiful piece in which to store all of my clothes. Everything you do is with care and it shows!