I just got this table- absolutely stunning. The pictures on the website don't do it justice. I got the natural color and it does seem to have protection- it's smooth with a shine- probably a wax. It's not as rustic as I thought it would be (which is awesome). I do have a kitchen table which was finished with a powder coat from a different company. It didn't have any finish on it. I did put a carnuba wax on that which has lasted over a year with twice a day wet wipe down. I have to say that the kitchen table looks better than when I got it. The patina is beautiful. it's the look that I was after. I think if you go for the rustic look then go with the rustic look. Don't fret. I know I was getting wrapped up in staining etc initially but it didn't happen and any little mark/blemish on it is from my family and from having loving memories around the table. Who wants to live a pristine sterile life? Not me. Enjoy your furniture don't keep it so precious. Be well everyone.

I wish I knew how to use photoshop and I could help you, though I still struggle with my table top decor. Squirel has been helpful to me Ps'ing plants in my living room, which is probably why I have more there today than I would've otherwise. If would look very nice with a fern below in a wicker type pot in case the cat knocks it over. Would she play with the leaves? Here are a few pics of my entryway which you can see is also rectangular and a very awkward space to decorate. It's too big to leave complete empty, but I cannot put much there without it feeling cramped. My table location is not ideal as you see the side view more often than not. I may add a rug in front of the door (if I ever get around to choosing my LR/DR rugs) plus I may add a pic on the wall opposite the entry table. In this pic you can see what I mean about the mirror reflecting the wall decor so you get a double benefit: For the table decor items, you can find some interesting items at Home Decorators, Michaels, Kohl's, Linen's 'n Things, etc. and Lowe's or a nursery is a good place to find plants and a wicker type planter. Also you need to think about what you want to put on the walls before finalize the table decor so that one does not block another, unless it's a mirror as the mirror can reflect the item (like the backside of a lamp or flowers). Are you thinking of painting your entry? Perhaps the same color as your LR? It would look nice in some of the green shades you were considering for your LR or alternatively a tan/gold color that compliments it? How about your drapes?

Two suggestions: www.driftwoodsalvage.com -- they are located on the Peninsula in East Palo Alto (LOTS of stuff from doors to fixtures to windows to wood to kitchen cabinets/counters and the list goes on) and Craigslist (look for demolition sales). Driftwood Salvage takes apart homes (some of them newer and some really old) that are being demolished. In addition to having lots of items at their location in East Palo Alto, they have salvage/demolition sales on many weekends on site where the house is being taken apart. You go there and buy what you want right out of the original house. We bought gorgeous gumwood trim, interior doors, a buffet, etc. from a 1920's house they were taking apart in Palo Alto 18 months ago. Have fun.

Get a 42 to 48 inch ROUND!!! cocktail if you plan to leave that ottoman in place. You'll have a comfortable 15 or 18 inches of clearance, and no nicked knees or shins. Keep it very light and airy and open. Marble top on iron.....glass on iron or another metal. If wood? Round, Light and VERY open, no shelves etc. Anything else will look like a HUGE SOLID and heavy, "blocky" mass in your room. (Just one, of the many reasons I hate that sectional configuration). Boxes you in, quite literally. Maybe just go to bed? : ) Do NOT add another upholstered thing to that configuration unless this is your basement for the kid sprawl. Even this below." To my mind a bit boxed in but better than a big square. Alas......: )