Rachel, I guess it depends on your definition of 'modern'. If you want sleek and stark and contemporary, then this piece isn't for you. But I agree with Saratoga that to me this is very 'modern' for its time. It's beautiful as is (which is how I would probably use it if the veneer is good) but its not a priceless antique so it be changed up if that's your style and would go better with other pieces in your house to give it a new life. Either way it has soul that contemporary pieces lack in my opinion. It's a little piece of history and a statement about the industrial time it was created. Including the beautiful mirror.

I recently saw this episode of Ask This Old House where they demonstrated painting tiles - especially as a solution to get one through till an entire redo is possible. http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/tv/ask-toh/video/0,,20902001,00.html Looks like you are doing a great job!

I think the brands you have listed are good! What colour were you thinking? How have you gotten the opportunity to import carpet? I hope it's not too expensive for you!

Hi Clo. Pinterest is very good, but it's more about photos and not actual information to read. Houzz is a good place, of course, but there are plenty of other good web sources. I have found this article on Google and it has a lot of information on Rustic design (it is also called Country style interior design). You can find there a good read on Provence style as well. I hope that helps.