coffee table hell!

I'm on the lookout for a new coffee table. We have graduated into adults (lol!) and I have deemed it necessary that we now purchase a coffee table that reflects our dignified, adult tastes and activities (again..LOL).

The thing is, coffee tables are expensive! I'm definitely a D.I.Y kinda girl, but I need a solid base to work with, and this is where my problem lies. As much as I would love to find some shabby, beat up old coffee table, scratched up, but holding so much promise, on craigslist or at a junk shop, and go to town on it, sanding it, painting it, etc....I just can't find that damn table!!

Even the crappy ones are priced too high, and I don't like wasting my time bartering in most situations.

I did however, look at some nice ones at the antiques warehouse....they had a shipment of vintage Chinese pieces, and lo and behold this lovely one stood out to me

Perfect size! intriguing yet neutral color, drawers, shelf, this one has it all.

Problem?

Still over my budget. Even at 50% off (which is awesome!), I couldn't take this guy home, devastating! If I don't find something soon though (this damn ikea piece of trash and it's peeling veneer and surface bubbles from the lack of coasters, is just asking to be thrown out in the back alley..), I might reconsider.


I'm really digging the idea of a turquoise table. I love this. I think I'll keep looking for a makeover project...