Re: Possessive case with inanimate objects
Yes. It's when I want to differentiate it from the other tables (or pieces of furniture), or other houses, etc.
You are in a furniture store:
A: I love this table.
B: Yes, but it's too expensive.
A: But look. This table's legs have some scratches. I wonder if they will drop the price.
You are on a city street:
A: I love the architecture here.
B: Me too. Especially the details. Look at this house's roofline!
B: Oh yes. That that house's columns.
You are in an old book store:
A: Be careful with these old books
B: Yes, I know. This book's pages are so delicate. I don't want to tear them.
I'm not a teacher, but I write for a living. Please don't ask me about 2nd conditionals, but I'm a safe bet for what reads well in (American) English.