
Where mere recycling does keep junk from hitting the landfills, upcycling breathes new life into old items and increases their value. The result is one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture that make a statement in your home. As our real estate agents show you some of our beautiful Central Virginia homes for sale, look for ways some homeowners have used upcycling to their advantage. Then let your own imagination soar.
- A Solid Foundation
As you browse thrift shops, you'll notice a vast difference in the quality of the materials used. Close your eyes to the water ring on the top of the bureau; it can be sanded away. Pay more attention to the sturdiness of the structure. While loose table legs can be secured, deep gouges in the wood or peeling veneer can be difficult to repair without leaving unsightly scars.
- Get Creative
Some items can be difficult to imagine fulfilling a different purpose. For example, an outdated television cabinet, try to envision it with the doors removed and a new finish. Would it serve as shelving in the craft room? Or would it look better holding that eclectic collection of memorabilia from your travels? And don't get hung up on the boring maple stain from the '70s. You can change it to whatever finish you want to match the rest of your furniture.
- Be Bold
The real beauty of a home decorated with upcycled furniture is its totally unique character. You won't find a duplicate in a magazine or on Pinterest. This is your opportunity to inject your own personality in the house beyond just hanging family photos. So if you want to repurpose a thrift store treasure completely, go for it! An old cabinet door can become a beautiful end table, while dresser drawers can make stunning shelves. The only voice that will tell you that you can't do that is the one in your head.
- Research Finish Options
If your distressed chest of drawers makes your eyes hurt, don't feel alone. That weathered look is great if that's what you want, but what if your goal is an ultra-modern house? The good news is that the home improvement stores are loaded with millions of options. Think about the overall color scheme of the house and what will look best with it. Consider the style. A tabletop could be a piece of polished metal or a mirror. Remember, it's all about you.
- Outsource if Needed
Let's face it. We don't all have unlimited skills. But you don't have to limit your goals. When you find that great overstuffed chair for your home library, but the Naugahyde is split, there's no reason why you can't pay to have it reupholstered in the luxury fabric of your choice. Or perhaps you don't have the time or inclination to do a job yourself. A handyman would be happy to hang the shelves or paint a chest of drawers. An art student from your local junior college would likely be thrilled to get paid to add a mosaic top to an end table.
Richmond has many beautiful houses just waiting for someone to make them their own. Contact us for assistance in finding yours.