Restoration Cabinets: All counters and restoration cabinets should be designed for working comfort. Counters should be 34 to 36 inches high, and wall restoration cabinets should begin 16 to 18 inches above the counter. Counter tops may be in a variety of materials—stainless steel near the sink, wood in the form of a chopping block for food preparation, serviceable plastic laminates in a variety of colors and patterns, and decorative ceramic tile, mosaic, or marble. restoration cabinets may be constructed of wood or steel with the door fronts finished in a variety of ways —paint, stain, or plastic laminates. Floor, walls, and ceiling may be covered in vinyl. The commode was grander and far more intricate than the simple chest, its place being in the drawing room under an imposing work of art and surrounded by fine objects collected from around the world. The leading makers and designers of the 18th century, such as Thomas Chippendale, published design and pattern books for commodes and restoration cabinets, which were subscribed to by all the leading members of the European aristocracy. Commodes and restoration cabinets were constructed from the finest mahogany and decorated with elaborate carving. With the importation of exotic woods during the mid-18th century, combined with the desire for a lighter and more elegant look, marquetry decoration re-emerged. Its revival was short-lived, as by the end of the century the chest was once again largely being consigned to the role of clothes storage, while bookcases and restoration cabinets developed both in scale and variety to include secretaire drawers, opening cupboard bases and elaborate cornices and pediments.

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