A second chance

Repurposing old furniture and giving it a new look can create inexpensive yet unique items. Here upcycling experts tell LISA SALMON how to do it

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MOST people would love their home to be full of unique furniture that isn’t just a replica of next door's.

But although many homeowners’ budgets don’t stretch to filling their home with expensive bespoke furniture, it’s still possible to own quirky, one-off items by upcycling furniture yourself.

You don’t need any special skills to do this - just a little imagination and the willingness to give it a go.

“There seems to be a bit of a craze for upcycled furniture - it’s an eco-friendly alternative to buying new and it’s the perfect way to give your home a uniquely personal look,” explains Odette Gibson, founder of Daisy's Emporium London, which supplies restored hand-painted furniture.

“No special skills are needed and there are no rights and wrongs with upcycling - it’s all about what you want for your home, whatever colour or style that may be.

“I’d definitely recommend giving upcycling a go - it’s the perfect way to keep old furniture out of landfill and create something memorable for your home.”

And interior designer and creative director at Blocc Interiors, Karl Openshaw, who has just collaborated with housing developer Barratt London on a new upcycling campaign, adds: “We're seeing growing interest in pieces with character, creativity, and individual charm.

“Repurposing isn't sustainable, it challenges the idea that furniture has to be one thing, used one way, for ever. The most exciting upcycles I've seen ignore just the original function - a vintage door becomes a headboard, drawers become a kitchen island. It’s furniture that doubles as sculpture.”