I recently hosted a workshop with Erin Cochran of Revealing Redesign on how to get “unstuck” with your home challenges. One of the topics we covered with this wonderful group of fun and energetic people (I’m telling you, this group was a hoot!) is working with what you already have. You may look at some of the obstacles in your home (whether it is use of space, use of furniture or an overall remodel) and think you need to start with a clean slate. The truth of the matter is that you may be able to work with what you already have for creative, cost-effective and FANTASTIC solutions!
Take for example this dining room set. My client wanted a different look, but the furniture was of good quality and not in bad condition. She was just wanting a change. By simply painting the body of the chairs and the legs/apron of the table a matte black, her dining set takes on an entirely different tone. It coordinates with other decor in the room and has a fresh, updated feel.
When we purchased our home four years ago, one of the rooms that I thought was the most beautiful was the dining room. The downside is that we are currently a family of two with two adult children. We had no need for a formal dining room. What worked perfectly for the previous owners was not a good fit for us. Instead of a total remodel to transform the space, we relocated the table off-center and created and wine and coffee bar across an entire wall. This space now works as a seamless transition between our living room and the kitchen. It went from a completely unused room to literally the hub of our home.
I had a client who absolutely loved her coffee table–the shape, size, and the fact that it was on wheels–except that it was completely worn out. I took apart the upholstered top and built a new solid wood surface. She kept all of the good parts and we just focused on the part that needed help. This table will serve her family for many more years to come.
The next time you are frustrated and looking for solutions to challenges in your home, don’t forget to consider what you already have. The answer may be right in front of you!
Hold My Wine, I’ve Got This…
Amy
