Inheriting Furniture? 5 Ways To Use It At Home
Have you inherited some furnishings from a relative or loved one who passed away? While many families choose to get rid of inherited furniture that doesn't quite fit their taste, others keep it for sentimental or budgetary reasons. But don't worry — you can integrate someone else's items into your own interior design with a little extra work. Here are some ideas to try.
1. Rethink Its Use
Remember that furniture isn't limited to how it was used by the original owner. They may have enjoyed that antique buffet in its traditional role in a dining room, but it could also be a wonderful addition to a master bedroom, a living room entertainment center, or a sideboard in a large entry hall. A new context can give items new life.
2. Reupholster or Accent
One of the easiest ways to make upholstered furnishings your own is to reupholster them. Choose fabrics that fit your home's style, motifs, and color palette. This is also a chance to take worn furniture and make it look like new. And if the furniture isn't upholstered? Changing some accent features like drawer pulls, feet or legs, and highlights of detail work might make it look more like your own.
3. Paint It
Painting inherited furniture is a tricky subject. Certainly, you should first determine if the items have any real monetary value as they are. If so, you may not want to make any permanent alterations. But if not? Don't be afraid to paint them an entirely new color or add different designs. It's inexpensive and freeing.
4. Add Temporary Coverings
What about those items that you don't want to permanently change, such as with new paint? Look for ways to add temporary changes. For instance, store the original handles and add new ones. Cover dining room chairs with contemporary chair coverings. Use sofa covers. Or add your own rotation of tablecloths and runners or dramatic centerpieces to draw away attention.
5. Mix and Match
Finally, how can you address furniture of a different style than the rest of your home? Consider rethinking your overall interior design to incorporate a more mix and match approach. Pair antiques and modern pieces together in strategic combinations. Or turn your farmhouse or cottage style into a modern farmhouse with a few surprising modern furnishings. This may be a chance to give your look a refresh.
Where to Start
No matter how you go about it, blending inherited furniture into your existing home style can be complicated. Get help by consulting with a residential interior designer in your area today and put yourself on the path to success. A business like Stage 7 Design can help with more information.
Share