The New 'Three
R's' - Revamp, Reorganize & Recreate
By Gisele Dickson of the Consignment Gallery
The signs of Fall are all around us; days are
shorter, nights a little on the chilly side, and the kids have gone back to school. Now,
after an extremely busy summer, it’s finally your time to relax a little and think
about what needs to be done around the house to make it especially cozy.
Whether you have just moved or are rearranging, you will certainly want
to include within your decor that ‘precious treasure’; that one item that some
call a ‘white elephant’, but to you it still holds a special place in your
heart.
While it may be challenging to work around this piece, it is also
exciting. Today’s decorating possibilities are endless, limited only by your
imagination. We’ve outgrown the lifestyles of our parents. Back then, everything
matched and some rooms were so formal that only guests could enter.
Following are the new three R’s to adding your personal touch to
your decorating endeavours:
Revamping... your treasure may require a simple
cleaning or a complete overhaul. If major work is required, you will need the help of an
expert. Experience, talent and communication are essential; remember to get some
references. Also keep an open mind to new possibilities. For example, an old chair may be
perfect as a plant stand or an easel.
Reorganizing... is a matter of cleaning out and
eliminating. This process, though time consuming and sometimes emotionally painful, needs
to be done before you can move forward. If possible, move all items out of the room, then
bring back only those that will work in your new decor. Box up everything else. Check
these items at a later date and if they still won’t work in your home, give them away
or sell them either privately or through consignment.
Recreating... is the fun part. Let your imagination
run wild. Just think, your once Victorian room could become a Hemingway hideout. Fall is
the ideal time to introduce warm and sensuous accessories. An area rug, afghan, ottoman,
candles and a stack of must read books all contribute to a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Thankfully for the young at heart, there is a wealth of unique,
one-of-a-kind establishments that provide a treasure trove of goodies.
Antique shops are a wonderful find for anyone searching for lost
pieces. These items usually come with quite a history and allow us to revisit our
childhood. Remember that old trunk Great Grandmother had? It’s out there somewhere
just waiting for you.
Furniture consignment stores offer a unique experience because they
receive stock on a daily basis. It is consignment, so expect the unusual. Consignment
offers a wide range of styles from antique to contemporary, all in ‘like new’
condition. Be prepared to make your purchase as consignment pieces generally move very
quickly and you wouldn’t want to be disappointed. Consignment stores are also a great
place to explore new decorating possibilities; displays change often so you will want to
visit regularly. Lastly, they are a great way of selling items that you no longer require.
Specialty boutiques are perfect for finding those wonderful pieces that
pull a room together. They usually offer expertise in one theme or area. Because of the
nature of the business, their buyers (often the owners) will purchase items with their
customers in mind, so let them know what you are looking for.
Creativity and patience are essential ingredients when decorating from
the heart and the rewards are incredible. Relax and enjoy the adventure! After all, your
home is your haven.
Gisele Dickson is part of the team at The Consignment Gallery
located at 533 58th Avenue SW. The Consignment Gallery carries a expansive variety of
consigned home furnishings, & decorating accents. They are chock full of some of the
best deals in Calgary! They are worth the visit. (403) 253-7880. |
