Upcycling In Interior Decoration
Upcycling is both a sustainable and stylish method of interior design: it is making use of existing pieces to reduce wastage, and finding the hidden beauty of a room by displaying old things in new contexts. The styling or total reinvention of a room involves stamping a modern hallmark on a beloved vintage era; considering the environment while retaining a quirky yet practical style; and, overall, creating something which looks good but doing it in a good way.
Upcycling in interior decoration has come in to the spotlight more recently due to the emerging ‘shabby chic’ market which it represents. However, the idea of recycling old and often discarded products into new and usable items isn’t a new phenomenon and has been carried out in lesser developed countries for a number of years.
The possibilities are endless: old pieces of woodwork can be transformed into stunning storage solutions; obsolete technology such as Cd’s can be made into beautiful unique jewellery pieces; and discarded tapestry can be manipulated into wonderful wall art. Upcycling does not mean ignoring everything totally new, it means using greener options wherever possible such as wallpaper and paint rather than screws, for example. Ultimately, it means feeling good about your impact on the world.
Re-designing rooms or indeed entire properties by using existing focal points is a fantastic way of creating a space which it completely unique; every upcycled piece of furniture, fabric, and forgotten artifact will be entirely bespoke reflecting your own taste, flare, and personality. No two pieces will be the same unless you create them.
Reinventing a pre-loved item is budget friendly; cost is not an issue when upcycling – you spend as little or as much as you want. A simple frame can create a focal point to be desired and a lick of paint works equally as well as a vibrant design in permanent marker breathing life back in to a tired piece of furniture and giving it the vitality it so desperately craved.
Upcycling ideas to transform your old stuff
Pallet shelf oak glaze wine rack pallets bar
It was made for you using used Euro pallets. The edges of the shelf were rounded, all surfaces finely sanded. It has been edited in such a way that the charm of the industry and its character is preserved. Afterwards it was painted oak glaze, whereby the grain comes into its own particularly nicely. European pallets have an individual, unique and unmistakable character through their journey around the world-just like this shelf. Furthermore, no tree had to be cut down for this piece of furniture and a purchase helps to conserve resources.
Storage ladder
Another creative use for an old ladder is shabby-chic shelving. Affix your ladder safely to the wall and sand down any sharp edges. Ideal for a small bathroom or kitchen it’s a handy way to store towels or it could even make a great coat rack in a hallway.
Wooden crate shelves
Easily available, wooden crates are ideal to use as shabby chic storage units. Simply add a lick of paint and securely affix a few together for a stylish set of shelves for your kitchen or bedroom.
Painting furniture with chalk paint
Upcycling furniture is a sustainable, cost-effective way to breathe new life into old or second-hand pieces. It’s a fun way to get creative, add personalization and make a one-of-a-kind piece to feature right inside your home. With a minimal budget and a little bit of elbow grease, you can transform outdated furniture into treasured pieces instantly.
