By Roxanne Griese
Thrift Stores, Flea Markets, Curb Side Finds, Family and Friends can provide a wealth of imagination for decorating your home. Re-using vintage or salvaged treasures in your home is one way to reduce carbon footprints. Keep an open mind, I used an old art studio desk in our foyer as an entry table, and three old wicker picnic baskets stacked to keep my reference material “See Picture”. Upscale an older dresser with a low VOC paint, then use it as a side table; in a dining room or as a kitchen island. Use old wooden tea boxes as magazine racks or to hold personal hobby accessories.
A home with character; invites conversation and memories. Every piece in our home has it’s own story, we have collected items over the years… I regularly rotate furniture and decorative items, to give our home a fresh look. I often ponder different ways to use “stored” furniture. I use the inside of a hutch that was once the bottom half of a “hand me down” vintage buffet; to store decor items.
“One man’s trash, is another man’s treasure”. This quote applies to family and friends, as well. If, a family member or friend tells me they are dropping off items to a thrift store, I get all excited and “call first dibs”. I have upscaled many “first dibs” items! I’m often asked, for the return of “fist dibs” from the original owners; after they see the transformation.
Remember to edit your space… choosing to display few treasures, can be a focal point. To many, can look clutter and under-valued. You don’t have to be an expert, let your instincts guide you, if you find an unusual piece and think to yourself what the heck is that… Consider taking it, research the item online, then find a use for it in your home.
These are just a few ideas… Continuing to love your space.
Hint: “Remember” to shop your home, find an interesting use for an ordinary piece of furniture.
Roxanne Griese is an Artist. Decorating and organizing are her passions, to see more articles and artwork visit. www.artbyroxanne.ca