Everyday Items That Double as Stylish Home Decor Pieces

When it comes to home decor pieces, you don’t always have to splurge on expensive decor items. Sometimes, the most stylish and eye-catching pieces can be found right in your own home and can serve a practical purpose while also adding style to your space.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everyday items that can be repurposed as stylish home decor accents, bringing both functionality and flair to your living spaces.

Adding style and purpose with everyday home decor pieces

• Books as Decorative Accents: Stacks of books can add charm and character to any room. Display them on coffee tables, bookshelves, or mantels to add height, texture, and a touch of nostalgia to your decor. You can also arrange them by colour to create a visually striking display. This is a pretty easy and foolproof way of accessorizing. Bonus points if the books are vintage.

• Wooden Crates as Storage/Shelving Units: Old wooden crates can be repurposed into unique shelving units that add rustic charm to any room. Mount them on the wall horizontally or vertically to display books, plants, or decorative objects. You can leave them unfinished for a natural look, or paint them to match your decor scheme.

• Vintage Suitcases as Side Tables: Turn vintage suitcases and/crates (for a more rustic look) into one-of-a-kind side tables. Stacking them and add a piece of glass or wood on top. Not only do they add visual interest to your space, but they also provide extra storage for blankets, magazines, or other items you want to keep within reach.

• Mirrors: Mirrors can make a statement in any room and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your decor. Hang them in entryways to make the space feel larger, or use them as focal points above mantels or dressers. Bonus points if it’s an antiqued mirror. The patina and intricate details of antique mirrors can instantly elevate the look of your home.

Think outside the box when it comes to home decor

• Rugs as Wall Art: What I’ve noticed is that a lot of people get handed down rugs, and don’t have the space for them. Well, there are other ways you can utilize a rug. Instead of laying rugs on the floor, consider hanging them on the wall as unique and eye-catching tapestries. The intricate patterns and rich colours of rugs can add warmth and texture to any room, transforming them into works of art that tell a story. This also soundproofs the room a little.

• Wooden Ladders for Blanket Storage: Repurpose old wooden ladders as stylish storage solutions for blankets and throws. Lean them against the wall in living rooms or bedrooms and drape blankets over the rungs for easy access and a cozy, lived-in look. Wooden ladders add a rustic touch to your decor while keeping your blankets organized and within reach.

• Plants in Wicker Baskets: Wicker baskets are not just for storing items—they also make charming planters for indoor greenery. Line baskets with plastic or burlap and fill them with potting soil and your favourite plants or herbs. Place them on windowsills, shelves, or countertops to bring a touch of nature indoors and add warmth to your decor.

• Kitchenware as Decorative Accents: Display kitchenware, such as copper pots, enamelware, or antique scales, as decorative accents, or attractive appliances (love Smeg) in your kitchen or dining room. Hang them on walls, arrange them on open shelves, or use them as centrepieces on dining tables to add a nostalgic and cozy vibe to your space.

Home decor pieces should have a story and purpose

I believe that every item in your home should serve a purpose, and ideally, each piece should also tell a story. To me, the most meaningful decor pieces are those that hold personal significance. Rather than simply purchasing random items from stores like Homesense, I encourage clients to explore their own style and heritage by delving into their parents’ or grandparents’ collections. You’d be surprised at the treasures you can uncover in grandma’s basement—vintage, unique pieces with stories to tell.

Read What Is My Home Decor Style?

Another avenue for curating a meaningful decor collection is through travel. Personally, I’ve been collecting home decor pieces from my travels for years. My collection serves as a rich tapestry of memories from places like Greece and Montenegro. By intentionally selecting items that resonate, we can infuse our living spaces with a deeper sense of meaning and connection.

My approach to decorating

When it comes to decorating, I approach it with a sense of spontaneity, much like freestyling in music (No, I do not rap). I enjoy experimenting with different arrangements and configurations, thinking outside the box to achieve the best results when accessorizing. It’s a fun and transformative process that adds the perfect finishing touch to every space.

While stores like Homesense may offer an array of cute knickknacks, I exercise caution in incorporating them into my designs. Many of these items lack purpose or function beyond their aesthetic appeal. However, there are ways to integrate decorative pieces that not only enhance the beauty of a space but also add value in more meaningful ways.

Ultimately, with a dash of creativity and imagination, everyday items can be transformed into stylish and functional decor pieces. Your home decor pieces should imbue your home with personality and charm. Whether repurposing vintage finds or breathing new life into practical items, the possibilities for decorating your home are boundless. So take a moment to explore your surroundings, draw inspiration, and start incorporating these everyday treasures into your decor. The goal is to create a home that truly reflects your unique style and personality.