A sofa that was originally a bathtub? Crates that are now a coffee table? Barrels that have been transformed into chairs? Welcome to the world of furniture upcycling. Here the old is made new.
Upcycling basically means to “reuse (discarded objects or material) in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original” (Oxford Dictionary).
Not only is upcycling a cost effective way of furnishing a home or trendy restaurant, but it adds distinctive originality and quirky personality to the space. It’s also eco-friendly and is perfect for people who appreciate a sustainable approach to design. This green edge goes beyond minimizing waste and can actually help reduce air and water pollution in addition to energy use since no new raw materials need to be produced.
The term first appeared in an article in 1994. Since recycling normally ‘downcycles’ or reduces the value of the original item, the idea of turning this around was a welcome change. Furniture upcycling is just one example of how this growing trend is ‘adding value’. It is testament that old road signs or an obsolete 30 year old TV can be reimagined and changed into items with aesthetic and practical value. And the beauty of furniture upcycling is that some of it can be achieved with some basic DIY skills…though admittedly the more impressive creations are definitely not the work of aspiring amateurs. So start rethinking your old and unwanted items. Breathing new life into them can have incredible results. Where will your creativity take you?