Repurpose, Recycle, Reuse

One Man's Junk is Another Man's Treasure

We live in a use and toss culture, not giving a second thought as to how we can repurpose or reuse. Many old items around your home can be transformed into interesting decor, so the next time you are ready to toss, think about how that junk can be turned into your treasure.

Globes are repurposed into pendant  lights.

An old bike turned vintage sink.

Turn an old watering can into a shower head.

Collanders become pendant lights

Scrabble artwork.

A lamp shade is made from linked slides.

 

 

Add some legs and a suitcase becomes a table.

Tire seating.

(Photo sources: Pinterest.com, Groovygreenlivin.com)

Budget Friendly Decorating Ideas

Budget friendly decorating ideas that won't break the bank.

 

Follow these tips on how to stretch your dollar by creatively transforming your home's existing furniture and accessories in something fabulous. By adding a little paint and some affordable finds, you will be amazed at the difference it makes in your room and your wallet.

 

Get creative and keep costs down. A tight budget does not mean you need to compromise on style. The entire budget for this 1,400 sq. foot home was a minimal $3,000. Shopping at second hand stores, tag sales, and clearance racks, was the key to this room's success.  

 

The dining chairs, a clearance item, were the only new items in the room. Additional accessories and furniture, including the light fixture, were purchased at the local Goodwills, Habitat for Humanity, Craigslist, second hand shops, and tag sales. The below photo provides a glimpse of  the room's dated appearance prior to the transformation.

 

A quick tip for decorating on a budget. Take time in redoing your room. Don't be in a hurry to get everything done. As a result, you will make bad decisions which affect your budget.

 

 

Put your DIY skills to work. This bedroom received a classy, yet inexpensive update. The room's walls were painted a soothing blue. A coverlet purchased for $6.00 from a second hand store was cut apart and used as a bed throw, accent pillows, and a shower curtain valance.  The curtains, rod, bed ruffles, and head board were tag sale finds. The home owner's old green lamp bases received a coat of black spray paint and some new white shades. 

 

Repurpose and reuse. Reuse items you currently have around the home. Photo 1: An outdated print was removed from it's frame and replaced with hanging star fish. Photo 2: Take a few inexpensive pots, then add florals for a chic home accessory. Photo 3: Go through your kitchen cabinets and use it's contents as lovely decor

 



 

THE COLOR ORANGE

The color orange is not just for fall decorating anymore

The color orange has always been a popular fall color, but it's now being used less than sparingly in home decorating and decor. The nice thing about this color is that a little orange will go a long way.

 

Like with any color trend, this color will not remain the color of the year forever. It's always a wise idea to use trendy colors on less costly items. Avoid buying big ticket items such as furniture or custom drapes. Instead, use bold color on smaller ticket items that are less expensive to replace. For example, paint an accent wall in orange or use a splash of it in accessories, throw pillows, or area rugs.

 

Below is a collection of ideas on how to use orange in decorating and home decor.

 

If you like orange, but have hesitations in using it, try using a variation of the 

color in accent pillows. This rooms neutral color tones grounds the rooms 

overall look while he throw pillows accentuate the space without overtaking it.

(Source: Linda Mixon Design)

A splash of orange is all that is needed in this dining room. When used

against white walls, this bold color makes a statement without stealing the

show.

 

This kitchen's orange window trim pops against the bright white cabinets. Only

a splash of color is needed to accomplish the job. (photo source: Houzz.com)

The orange place mats can be easily and inexpensively replaced once the

orange trend starts to fade. (photo source: Jason Ball Interiors, Houzz.com)