Give New Life To Old Household Items
The possibilities are endless. The impact is significant.
Reusing old household items is a sustainable practice that benefits both the environment and your wallet. Here are some inventive and practical ways to repurpose those unused items you just don’t want to give away.
Instead of tossing glass jars in the recycling bin, how about turning them into handy storage containers? They’re perfect for organizing spices, storing leftovers or serving as containers for homemade candles. You can also use them as flower vases, adding charm and color to your home decor.
Old t-shirts and other worn-out clothing can easily be transformed into fashionably sustainable necessities. For example, you can turn them into cleaning rags, reducing the need to buy disposable products. With a bit of sewing, you can also craft larger pieces into reusable grocery bags or quilts that serve as special reminders of events like concerts or charity walks.
Unused furniture is ripe for repurposing. Convert an old ladder into a rustic bookshelf. A dresser with a broken drawer can become a chic television stand or an entryway feature with personality. You can even construct a nifty coffee bar out of an armoire. All it takes is a little creativity to breathe new life into tired wooden pieces, giving them a fresh look.
Don’t forget about that kitchen drawer brimming with unused items. Use old muffin tins to organize small craft or office supplies. A rolling pin that doesn’t roll quite like it used to can become a hand-towel rack. Bend vintage utensils into wall hooks and transform coffee cups or mugs into little planters for succulents.
Design Trends Making a Comeback
With a nod to the past, timeless trends are making a return to living spaces. The classics have been reimagined, combining their best features with modern design. Discover how vintage styles are becoming today’s staples.
The softer color schemes of previous decades are on the rise, while darker shades are being used for smaller design elements like crown molding, trim and other accents.
With a vast array of designs and textures, peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easier than ever to showcase personal style with minimal commitment.
Bold statement rugs, which were trending in the early 2000s, have once again surged in popularity due to their ability to quickly transform a room.
Curved furniture and architectural elements are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, drawing inspiration from the 1960s with contoured sofas, arched doorways and other rounded features.
Should You Install an Outdoor TV?
Whether you want to breathe in the fresh air while watching a game on a sunny afternoon or sit under the stars while enjoying a movie, a television brings entertainment to the great outdoors. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re considering one for your porch or patio.
Make sure you have a safe and sturdy place for installation. If you rely on streaming services, be sure to test the strength of your Wi-Fi signal. If it’s weak, an extender may help.
Manufacturers make models suitable for full shade, partial sun and full sun. Consider the range of weather where you live — you may need to invest in a cover or take the TV inside during cold or stormy conditions.
Kitchen Window Treatment Ideas
Window treatments provide more than just privacy — they can elevate your style and help regulate your home’s temperature. Consider these options to add flair and function to your kitchen.
Semi-opaque roller shades are an affordable, sophisticated choice that brings privacy without completely obstructing your view.
Woven shades add texture that can soften the look of sharp kitchen features.
Shutters are easy to clean, making them a good option for windows in messy areas near your sink or stove.
Fabric window treatments, such as draperies and Roman shades, are an elegant way to add interest, color and softness to a kitchen.
Top-down bottom-up shades provide added flexibility because they can be raised from the bottom and lowered from the top, allowing light to filter in while maintaining a degree of privacy.
Sheer shades combine the practicality of blinds with the look of sheer curtains, helping to soften light without blocking your view.
Wood and faux wood blinds can withstand heat and humidity and are available in a wide range of colors to match other elements in your kitchen decor.
Recipe: Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Ingredients
4 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
½ cup red and yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
4 oz. Mozzarella pearls
2 Tbsp. basil pesto
1 tsp. minced garlic
¼ cup avocado oil
2 ripe avocados
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar over medium and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer, stirring occasionally. When vinegar has thickened and reduced to about half, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Combine tomatoes, Mozzarella pearls, pesto, garlic, and oil in a medium bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Halve and peel avocados. Remove pits and place avocado halves on a serving dish. Spoon tomato filling into each half and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Serves 4
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