Refresh you décor with Upcycling

Mixing old with new isn’t exactly a fresh idea in interior design. Over the last few years we’ve seen classic French furniture and ‘shabby chic’ grace interior design magazines and homes. This look however is a much different take.

Looking through trends for late 2013 we have begun to see classical ornate furniture and delicate flowers against bare flooring and modern accessories. The floorboards and grey walls are softened with eclectic textures, photo frames and traditional chairs. Although we’ve seen aspects of industrial looks before, for example in loft and warehouse conversions, this is a much more grown up and clean look. 

The key to this look is to mix items you wouldn’t normally associate together such as modern silver ornaments and classic portraits.

Up-Cycling

One of the main benefits of a design like this is that it doesn’t have to look perfect; you aren’t restricted to keeping your home like an unrealistic show home, as we all know real life comes with children, grandchildren and pets leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Inspiration and furniture for your new look doesn’t need to be expensive either, for instance it can even be furniture you already have that just needs updating. The process of up-cycling tired furniture has become very popular in our current economic climate, and as we become more conscious of the carbon footprint we’re leaving behind.

If you don’t have any pieces you want to change how about visiting a charity shop or even getting an item from a Free Site (such as FreeCycle or Gumtree ), then just update with paints, handles, and new fabrics. 

This Luxury Ravello Fabric in Rich Vanilla has given a new lease of life to this sofa whilst respecting the classic original design.

Changing the use of a piece

A very inventive way of up-cycling is to completely change the use of the piece that would otherwise be discarded.

How about taking an old table you’re bored of, splitting it in half and stacking into shelves? 

This old suitcase has been transformed into a beautiful and very unique chair that would have been cast away, but now will instead sit proudly in any space as a fun talking point.

If you would like to up-cycle any sofas or chairs with Covers or Reupholstery contact Plumbs today for a free no obligation home consultation, and we can advise you about styles and fabrics for your home!