From factory floor to furniture must-haves

Pallet furniture is an affordable, eco-friendly décor trend popular around the world. It offers rustic charm and creative solutions for every space, writes Linda Piegl.

- Linda Piegl

The wooden pallet had humble beginnings. Originally designed to make the handling and movement of goods easier by forklift – and for use in storage – pallets have moved from manufacturing, warehousing, shipping and agriculture into homes around the world.

Today, they’ve found a new lease of life as repurposed, ecoand budget-friendly furniture pieces. It’s a home décor trend that’s been steadily growing. In Europe, sustainable and repurposed furniture has gained popularity over the past 15 years; the UK saw consumer interest in pallet furniture soar from 2019 onwards. In Africa, countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria were the early adopters of the trend.

Locally, there’s also rising demand, as people seek bespoke furnishings made from renewable resources.

A MULTITUDE OF USES

Pallets can be transformed into diverse furniture pieces, from couches, coffee tables and TV stands to pedestals, headboards and bed frames. Adding a rustic, no-fuss element to any space, these items can also be ‘dressed up’ to suit your personal style with statement cushions, throws, vases and lamps.