I love this Hoosier Cabinet by Isabella & Max (and the room too!)
I was thrilled and honored to be featured again on HGTV.com, alongside several familiar bloggers. The feature asked us to share the creative ways we’ve repurposed or revamped furniture and other items in our homes.
The slideshow on HGTV highlights inventive repurposing ideas that breathe new life into ordinary furnishings. It’s fun to spot pieces you might recognize from fellow bloggers I admire. I noticed a beautiful Hoosier cabinet by Janell Beals of Isabella & Max, inspiring painted cabinetry by Marian of Miss Mustard Seed, and clever transformations from Donna of Funky Junk Interiors. These women are exceptionally talented and their work always sparks fresh ideas.
On my own site you’ll find a few simple repurposing ideas taken from around my home—some small updates, some more involved makeovers, and a few pieces that have already been painted or refinished. Each project is focused on practical creativity: using what you already have, choosing finishes that work for your space, and adding functional details that make a piece both beautiful and useful.
Repurposing furniture can be as straightforward as repainting an old dresser to match modern decor, updating hardware to give a vintage table new character, or reimagining a cabinet for a different room. For larger projects, refinishing surfaces, stabilizing joints, and carefully selecting a durable topcoat can extend the life of a treasured piece while keeping its original charm. The balance between preserving character and adding contemporary touches is what makes these projects rewarding.
When I tackle a repurpose or revamp, I start by imagining how the piece will function in its new role. Does it need more storage, a different surface finish, or a change in scale? From there I plan the materials and steps—cleaning, sanding, priming, paint or stain, new hardware, and protective finishes. Simple adjustments often make the biggest difference: swapping outdated knobs, adding shelving, or repositioning a piece in a new room can transform how it looks and how it’s used.
Beyond practical tips, it’s inspiring to see a variety of approaches in one place. The HGTV slideshow gathers different styles and techniques so you can mix and match ideas for your own projects. Whether you prefer a farmhouse aesthetic, a rustic reclaimed look, or a clean modern update, repurposing allows you to craft pieces that reflect your personal style while being mindful of resources.
I’m excited to have another reusing project planned soon and can’t wait to share the process and results. If you enjoy upcycling and creative home updates, keep an eye out for the reveal—there will be step-by-step photos and notes about the materials and techniques I used. Seeing a plain or worn item return to usefulness and beauty is one of the best parts of decorating and makes the effort worth it.
The slideshow referenced is available on HGTV.com for inspiration and ideas.