Home decor says a lot about who you are, but it doesn't necessarily have to be new to do that. Many home designers say second-hand items can be just as effective, or even more effective, at adding character to a space. We asked two design experts for their recommendations on the best home items to buy second-hand and what to look out for when buying second-hand.
Why buy used items?
Decorating your space can be fun, but it can also be expensive. Also, finding the right decor that shows off your personality and fits your budget can be difficult. Well-known retailers may offer products at fair prices, but they are not special bargains.
“I love saving money on home decor whenever possible,” says Marisa Bettencourt, founder and principal designer of North + Fair Interior Design. “Not only is it cost-effective, but it’s also an environmentally responsible way to beautify your home with truly unique and one-of-a-kind items.”
Jessica Vegliacich of J Layne Designs agrees, saying, “In addition to keeping items out of landfills and giving them a new lease of life, antiques and vintage are always great to incorporate into any interior furniture décor.” says.
Here are some of the best items to consider buying used, according to Bettencourt and Begliacic.
vase
“Recycled vases are a great way to add color and texture to a space,” says Bettencourt. “Buying used also means you can spray paint it and customize it in a variety of ways to create pieces that look expensive and stylish.”
potted plants
“For plant lovers, 'used' plants are an affordable way to refresh a space,” says Bettencourt. “If you check out local second-hand sites like Facebook Marketplace, you'll find tons of beautiful potted plants for sale, both real and fake.”
Bettencourt also says that eco-friendly people might enjoy the fun challenge of finding low-cost plants on sale that could help them put a little more love into growing them. “But if you're not all that green, buying second-hand means replacing dead plants won't hurt your interior budget too much.”
If you have time, you can also consider growing entirely new plants yourself by taking cuttings from your friends and family's plants and propagating them. It's easier than you think and you can basically get tons of new plants for free.
picture frames and artwork
If you want to buy new art for your home but don't want to spend too much on retail prices, buying second-hand can be a great solution. “I like to source frames and original art from second-hand and thrift stores for my projects and home,” says Vegliacic.
tabletop decoration
“I found exquisite pottery and other tabletop decorations, such as busts and figurines, that would personalize the vignettes and add personality to the bookcases and credenzas,” says Vegliačić. “You can also use the unique vessels you purchase as accents for potted flowers and houseplants.”
You can also make your own low-cost DIY centerpieces to add to bowls, vases, and tabletop baskets you find while thrifting.
