Récup Re-use Recycle

Those of you that share my appreciation for all things old and beautiful will know how adding something full of charm and character can instantly transform and enrich the atmosphere of your home.

A thoughtfully placed vintage piece or display of your treasures will always attract attention and allow you to enjoy it everyday.

Also don't overlook something that you think has past its use-by-date, as there is a growing trend to re-use things that you may no longer have use for, as they are, and re-fashion them into a gorgeous new piece to be enjoyed again by a new generation.

Remember Nanna's old table linens, tea towels and bed linens and how beautiful the fabrics and handiwork was, well, they are now being refashioned in part or whole to become quilts, cushions, curtains and even as vintage panels in garments.

Old buttons and trims are very special with colours and textures that can't be replicated today. Add them to a cushion or bed throw or lampshade and see how they transform it and give it a new lease of life. Just like changing the buttons on your old coat to give it a new look.

Vintage soft furnishings and fabrics are highly sought after but not always practical to use as you find them, so why not re-create your own vintage look using récuped pieces of the real thing.

The muted colours and interesting textures of old fabrics blend beautifully with new and also sit very well in a contemporary or retro interior while lending the space a softness and sense of comfort we all crave when coming home at the end of a busy day.

Vintage mannequins all tattered and torn look wonderful as a decorative piece either on their own or draped with your favourite jewels or scarves to dress up a bedroom space.

Architectural elements can be re-used in many ways either worked into a new piece or on their own as a feature in a garden or outdoor living space.

Half the fun is taking the time to fossick through all the gorgeous old bits 'n' pieces until just the right thing inspires you to start a récup project of your own.