What's old is new again? Have you noticed lately how everything is going "Green" including design? Refurbish, reuse, reclaim just about anything!! And why not? Going Green not only saves the planet, it eliminates a of lot waste in the landfill. As a stager and redesigner, I'm always on the look out to save my clients money. What better way than to use or re-use what they already have? But if you need to buy items, check out your local savage yards. They have great finds!!
My personal favorite is reclaimed lumber. One in particular that is gaining momentum is reclaimed barn doors. I've started to see them more and more. I happen to love the look.
Another personal favorite, reclaim fireplace mantles. Something about wood and stone!! Love the look and feel of it.
Elemental Restoration & Design
Another way to re-use is antiquing. Many people today love antiquing. If you know how to shop and you know what you need, you can find great deals out there. But don't buy anything unless you have a place to put it, or it will clutter your space. I happened to find this table. It was priced at $15 but needed some tender loving care. I was up to the challenge!!
Table before Refinishing!
Got to work and decided to paint it silver. First step was sanding. Not to the bare wood, just enough to make the paint stick. Then I primed it, one coat. Finally I spray painted it sliver, using Rustoluem paint. Very easy to use. Just make sure you get all the sides!!
Here is is primed and painted!!
Last step was adding mirrors. Went to the local glass and mirror store, Clear Image Glass and had them make the top. Originally I though I could cut the smaller pieces for the side and glue them on, but it proved more of a challenge than expected, so I had them do it. Glad I did; they did a wonderful job!!
All dressed up!!
The finished product turned out better then I expected. The mirrors costed me $54 for the top (including the mirror for the side, which I did not do) and $30 for the side. Altogether I spent less then $100 to get this finished product. If you were to price this out retail, it would cost at least $275, depending on were you purchased it.
So next time you think about throwing away old furniture or buying new wood, take a moment and think. Can this be saved? Not only will it save you money and be "Green" but it will give you bragging rights, which is always nice!!
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