As a journalist, I have the privilege of meeting a variety of people who have unique approaches to everyday challenges. Today, I recount a delightful conversation with Emily Harcourt, a passionate home decorator who has mastered the art of “Use What You Have” decorating. Emily’s journey and insights offer invaluable tips for anyone looking to refresh their home without breaking the bank. Her experiences illustrate how creativity and a fresh perspective can transform any living space.
Emily’s Journey to Resourceful Decorating
Emily Harcourt’s home is a testament to the philosophy of making the most of what you have. Walking into her living space, one is greeted by a harmonious blend of colours and styles, each piece telling a story of its own. Emily’s journey into resourceful decorating began out of necessity but has since become a passionate endeavour.
“I started out of sheer necessity,” Emily shared, a warm smile lighting up her face. “After moving into our new home, the budget was tight. There was no room for new furniture or fancy decor, so I had to get creative with what we already had.”
Shopping at Home: A Treasure Hunt
Emily’s first piece of advice is to “shop your home.” This involves taking inventory of what you already possess and envisioning new ways to use these items. “It’s incredible what you can find when you start looking at your existing decor with fresh eyes,” Emily explained. “I often move items from one room to another. For instance, a vase that once held flowers in the dining room now serves as a kitchen utensil holder.”
She recommends starting with a consistent colour palette and decor style throughout the home. “This makes it easier to move items around without them looking out of place,” she added. Emily keeps a digital catalogue of her decor items, snapping photos and storing them in a file on her phone. This clever hack allows her to visualise how pieces might fit together in different rooms without physically moving them first.
Breathing New Life into Old Pieces
One of Emily’s favourite methods for refreshing her home is giving old pieces a new look. “Paint is my magic tool,” she said enthusiastically. “I’ve painted everything from chairs to picture frames. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform an old piece of furniture.”
She encourages others to start small, perhaps with a picture frame or a small chair. “There are plenty of tutorials online to guide you through the process,” Emily advised. In addition to painting, Emily has also experimented with slipcovering and reupholstering. “Fabric can work wonders,” she noted. “I’ve reupholstered dining chairs and even made slipcovers for sofas. It’s a great way to update the look without buying new furniture.”
Books as Decor
Emily’s home features an impressive array of books, not just on shelves, but as integral decor elements. “Books are more than just reading material,” she said. “They can be used as risers, fillers, or even focal points in a room.”
She stacks books to add height to displays or uses them as platforms for other decorations. “A beautifully bound book on a coffee table invites people to pick it up and leaf through it,” she explained. “It’s a simple way to add personality to your space.”
Moving Furniture and Breaking Up Sets
Emily is a big proponent of moving furniture from one space to another. “I love taking an accent chair from the living room and using it in the bedroom,” she said. “It gives the room a whole new feel.”
She also believes in breaking up matching furniture sets. “Matchy-matchy can be limiting,” Emily stated. “Breaking up a set and mixing in new pieces can create a more dynamic and interesting space.” For example, she kept her dining room table but replaced the chairs with second-hand finds that she painted and reupholstered.
Bringing the Outdoors In
Another interesting aspect of Emily’s decor is her use of outdoor items inside. “Outdoor rugs can make great accent pieces indoors,” she shared. “They’re durable and often have vibrant patterns that add a pop of colour.”
She also brings in outdoor furniture during the colder months. “Our patio bench becomes a hallway bench in the winter,” she revealed. “It’s all about being creative and flexible.”
Creative Use of Textiles
Emily has a knack for using textiles in unique ways. “Pillows and throws are my go-to items,” she said. “They can be moved around and layered to create different looks.”
She has used throws as tablecloths and dishtowels as cafe curtains. “It’s all about thinking outside the box,” she explained. “A throw blanket can warm up a sofa, while mismatched pillows can create a cosy, eclectic vibe.”
Creating Focal Points
Emily believes that every room should have a focal point. “It could be a gallery wall, a beautifully styled bookshelf, or an eye-catching piece of furniture,” she said. “Use what you have to create a focal point that draws the eye and adds interest to the room.”
She shared how she grouped vases, urns, and pots to create a stunning display on her dining table. “It’s about taking what you have and arranging it in a way that makes it stand out,” she added.
Editing and Replacing
Sometimes, less is more. “Editing your decor can make a big difference,” Emily advised. “Remove items that clutter the space or don’t serve a purpose.”
She also acknowledged that some items might need to be replaced. “An old, worn-out sofa might not be the best choice if you want an attractive room,” she said. “Save up for big-ticket items and choose neutral colours that will stand the test of time.”
Final Thoughts
Emily’s home is a testament to the power of creativity and resourcefulness. Her journey into “Use What You Have” decorating offers valuable insights for anyone looking to refresh their home on a budget. By shopping your home, reimagining old pieces, and thinking outside the box, you too can create a beautiful and personalised living space.
“Your home should reflect your personality and be a sanctuary for you and your family,” Emily concluded. “Be happy with what you have, and don’t be afraid to make changes that bring you joy.”
Oliver Jenkins
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