Wanting to make the most of the space that you have feels even more important in the winter, and after two years of having to stay at home.
Sales of home embellishments, from garden furniture to pizza ovens and hot tubs have hit an all-time high as people are trying to improve their home environment. But before you head to your local furniture store, or do an online search for new living, dining or bedroom furniture, it’s a good idea to stop and see what you can do with what you have already, or with things that other people are throwing away. Online social media marketplaces are packed with incredible bargains which are easy to find with a little patience. Likewise, social media has a wealth of upcycling ideas and inspiration. So, if you are tempted to enter the magical world of upcycling, here are a few reasons why you should give it a try.
Cost – A brand new piece of high-quality furniture will cost you hundreds of pounds. If you spend anything less, you will find yourself needing to replace it before long. A second-hand piece will cost you half the original price, or even less, depending on the condition; if you are planning on sanding and painting a piece, a few scuffs won’t make any difference to the end result, while helping to drop the price considerably. A piece of your own that is old, tired, or just not to your taste any more is FREE and has plenty of potential for a new lease of life.
Environment – furniture that isn’t sold on or recycled is destined for landfill. If you buy cheap furniture, you can guarantee that it will be dumped in the ground somewhere within the decade. Rescuing an old piece not only saves you buying something new, but it saves an old piece from landfill; win, win!
Style – you don’t have to be a professional interior designer to upcycle furniture, but it can help! As soon as you put your own stamp on a piece, whether that is a pretty doorknob or a touch of paint, you have made it completely unique. Check out Instagram for inspiration and if you are not confident doing it on your own, keep a list of ideas, invest in a cheap but good quality base piece, and get in touch with a local furniture restorer, interior designer or carpenter.
Satisfaction – there are few things more satisfying than saving money, saving the environment, and doing DIY except, maybe, saving money and the environment whilst doing DIY! Upcycling opens a whole host of opportunities to you.
If you are not sure where to start, contact local interior designers to see if they offer an upcycling service or if there is someone local that they can recommend. Feeling inspired? Share your upcycling successes with us on Facebook or Twitter.