From old furniture to carpets, take advantage of these unused items and create something new for your home decor

HT Lifestyle turned to experts to find out how to turn old items into something new.

Although many consider it recycling, the practice of reuse is more than that. Nayan Shah, founder of Palindrome Spaces, elaborated on this, explaining that the art of repurposing is about more than just sustainability. Repurposing is about storytelling, creativity and honoring the character of each piece

There is often a dichotomy when it comes to the purpose of an object, but repurposing breaks that boundary. Somya Malhotra Bedi, founder and creative director of Sage Haus, reminded: “Every item, whether treasured or abandoned, holds untapped potential. Repurposing is an act of imagination, imagining the new possibilities of an object, not just an opportunity to “reuse the old.”

Here's how you can get creative and reuse unused items in your home:

Windows, doors and furniture

Nayan Shah shared suggestions on how to redesign wooden items, from doors to furniture:

• Old windows and doors can be transformed into eye-catching wall art or functional room dividers. Their weathered textures and intricate designs add character.
• A vintage sewing machine stand can be repurposed as a chic console table or a rustic bathroom sink stand. Pair it with a sleek, modern countertop for a striking contrast of old and new.
• A wooden ladder worn over time can serve as a towel rack in the bathroom or a vertical planter stand for indoor landscaping. It's an easy way to add rustic charm.

In addition, the existing furniture can be completely redesigned with simple steps. Somya Malhotra Bedi recommended:

• Refresh old furniture with new paint and new buttons. Simple upcycling, like repainting old furniture and adding new knobs, can instantly breathe new life into outdated furniture while adding a personal touch.
• Use old doors, especially those with intricate carvings, as eye-catching features in modern spaces. Use them as a headboard for a bed, a unique room divider, or even a centerpiece in a living room.
• Use reclaimed wood from beams and railings to make custom coffee tables or console legs.

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Fabrics and upholstery

There are many pieces of fabric, such as old clothing and scarves, that may be lying around your home. These overlooked treasures can be creatively repurposed and transformed into stylish and functional pieces for your space. Somya Malhotra Bedi suggested:

• Repurpose old textiles such as bedding, scarves or used carpets to create unique, eye-catching wall installations.
• Use cashmere scarves and redesign them as cozy throws for sofas, adding warmth and texture while honoring their historical value.
• Transform outdated furniture with the help of upholstered furniture. Add luxurious fabrics like velvet, leather or linen to create a fresh, modern look. Use fabric tufting or upholstery to refresh furniture and add a personal, artistic touch.

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Other everyday objects

Several household items seem to have a clear use, but with the help of repurposing they can be transformed into something completely different.

Nayan Shah highlighted these everyday items that can be recycled, whether they are broken or old:

• Use glass bottles as pendant lights or candle holders. Group them together to create a vibrant focal point or use them individually as flower vases for a minimalist aesthetic.
• Use broken tiles and plates to create vibrant mosaic patterns on garden benches, tabletops or even as a backsplash in your kitchen to add a playful yet personal touch.
• Repurposed crates or wooden crates can be converted into planters or vertical gardens. For a touch of whimsy, use a vintage tea kettle or a watering can for succulents or herbs.
• Fragments of broken mirrors can be combined into an eclectic wall mural or used to decorate furniture such as dressers or coffee tables to make a reflective and artistic statement.
• Antique lanterns can find new life as unique lights. Combine them with modern LED lights for an energy-efficient twist on vintage charm.
• Stacks of old books can be turned into nightstands or unique seating. Add a glass top for a polished finish so the titles remain a subtle part of the decor.

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