Practical Decor: Tips for Repurposing Furniture for a Smaller Space

It’s a common belief among people who downsize their home that their old furniture won’t fit in their new home. Some people even avoid the very sensible option of downsizing just for this reason. It’s time to set the record straight. Downsizing to a smaller home doesn’t mean that your old furniture needs to go out on the curb. With some creative furniture repurposing ideas, you can still use most of it in your new space. Here are four tips on how to accomplish this.

1. Stools as End Tables

If your old space had room for kitchen and bar stools, say hello to your new end tables. While having to purchase brand new end tables to accommodate your new downsize can be costly, repurposing stools as end tables in your living room and bedrooms might be the perfect solution for a smaller space. Give them a fresh spin by painting them in vibrant colors and patterns and voila! You’ve given those old stools a new spin.

2. Kid’s Furniture as Storage Space & Space Savers

If your kids have outgrown their play pens and toy chests, you may have some valuable storage options to use in your new space. Most parents tend to replace their kid’s old furniture but we say repurpose! Draping a decorative blanket over the chest can add to your decor and provide easy storage if you’ve downsized to a smaller space.

3. Drawers as Compartments Under the Bed

If you own a large armoire that’s too big to bring with you to your new space, take just the drawers instead! Drawers with multiple compartments work great for under-the-bed or storage inside a closet. You can even attach a few casters to the underside of the drawer so it can slide in and out easily. Just like the stools mentioned above, simply give it a coat of paint and you’ll have stylish storage without the hassle of taking up too much space. 

4. Repurposing Tips from Libby Langdon

In Libby Langdon’s recent how-to video for SmartMove, she offers some expert advice on some creative ways she utilized old furniture in a new space. Libby explains that even furniture as specific as baker’s shelves and writing desks can be repurposed as foyer tables and easy bathroom storage. Since we don’t want to give all her expert design tips away, check out more of Libby’s design advice for repurposing furniture at SmartMove.

Whether you’re a home decor newbie or a pro at repurposing furniture, it’s important to remember that downsizing doesn’t have to mean replacing all your old furniture. Doesn’t that ultimately defeat the purpose of downsizing to save money anyway? With these creative tips and more to discover on Libby’s video, you will surely give all your old furniture new life in your new space!

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