Upcycling: Making Your Space Uniquely You

Anyone can revamp their space with a little bit of elbow grease, but it takes a special design mind to bring real life to the room. If you think you are lacking in the creativity department, you’re likely selling yourself short. Leigh-Ann Allaire Perrault, the DIY queen herself, says using your personal touch to upcycle a pre-loved piece of furniture is just what you need to take your reno to the next level.

Picture this: you’ve got your budget in place, you’ve found the perfect piece of furniture to restore, so what’s next? How can one frugal find change the entire look and feel of a room? Leigh-Ann says it’s all about originality.

“Who hasn't dreamed of having a flamingo pink antique armoire with a gold leaf interior and vintage crystal knobs?" Leigh-Ann asks. "Okay, maybe that's just me, but I don't know of a store where I could buy precisely that item. However, when I find the perfect affordable second-hand armoire, I plan to roll-up my sleeves and create the ultimate upcycle piece to showcase my style.” 

The beauty of upcycling is that you are able to use your own personal style to create a statement piece that is a one-of-a-kind conversation starter. Not to mention it can create the illusion that the whole room got a fabulous makeover. 

 “Not only does upcycling provide a creative outlet to fully showcase your personal style, but it also ensure that unique piece will be unlike anything your neighbors could buy from a generic furniture store,” explains Leigh-Ann.

If you’re not sure where to start, check out Leigh-Ann’s favourite frugal furniture finds for inspiration: solid wood accent chairs. 

"They are so easy to find and often incredibly affordable," Leigh-Ann beam. "And I particularly love them because they are quick to makeover in any colour or finish imaginable, and also can be tucked into any corner or even used as a side table or plant stand."

Or you could try upcycling an antique china cabinet or sideboard. Leigh-Ann "loves when their cold charm meets a fresh coat of chalk paint in a vibrant, unexpected hue!"

As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to upcycling old furniture. If you'd like to learn more about how to master the art of DIY, check out Leigh-Ann's presentations sponsored by Rust-Oleum at the all new Edmonton Fall Home Show, happening October 23-25, 2015 at the Edmonton Expo Centre. 

Deal Alert: Get 2-for-1 tickets to the show when you connect with us on Facebook! Buy 'em early to save big and avoid box office lines.