Our society has accumulated so much stuff that we often just toss or give it away. Portlanders are some of the most generous folks when it comes to listing items for free on sites like Craigslist and others. One of my favourite things to do is to peruse over Craigslist and see what is being donated. I have found many a great deal on there. Let me just share two of my recent acquisitions and the innovations that were created through them.
Due to flat screens replacing old TV’s, there has been a surge in disposing of entertainment centers. I discovered one that caught my eye and began to think of just how I could repurpose it. It was beautiful on the outside and I felt it needed a purpose. Bringing to mind my leaning tower of games in the corner of my kitchen, I thought why not turn it into a game (still entertainment!) center. So with my hubby, we headed out in our truck to go pick up this free gift. The next day, we purchased some shelving and by that night, we had finished our project. Very minimal work and cost for a wonderful, functional piece of furniture. Everyone loves the newfound ease of choosing a game and avoiding the hassle of trying to see what is available on the closet shelf or somewhere in the pile in the kitchen corner. An extra bonus was being able to fit my sewing machine and accessories in the bottom two cupboards. (Perhaps now mending might even get done faster with the sewing machine upstairs instead of hidden from view downstairs in storage!)
Thrilled with the first makeover, I continued browsing Craigslist and shortly thereafter, I came across a large two-drawer filing cabinet. My mind immediately started working on what I could do with that. We live just outside of town a bit in the country and love having friends over for a campfire. We were constantly having to run back to the house to retrieve various items that are needed when we have a social gathering. Not everyone is a fan of being the runner, especially if they are sent a few times.
I envisioned building the drawers into a cupboard with a granite countertop. Then we could keep supplies handy and have a permanent surface to use as well. After discussing the idea, we agreed it was a worthwhile project. We made plans to build the countertop with enough storage underneath to house the tabletop barbecue, propane tank and newly repurposed filing cabinet.
A year ago, our old barn came down and we salvaged what we could of the unique and exquisite wood. It had intrinsic value to our family and gorgeous character and patina you can’t find in new wood. Following the theme of repurposing, we elected to build with the salvaged wood.
Beginning to construct the table, my husband and son mixed up cement and poured a foundation base for it. I scampered off to collect the filing cabinet. This project entailed many hours and a mini celebration upon completion. We have become quite fond of our new addition as we have had friends over. There is a place for everything and everyone is thrilled to just relax and enjoy one another’s company.
It is truly rewarding when you can innovate and change the tune of “out with the old; in with the new” to “in with the new, out of the old!” Be a part of the fun; take a second look at things and see what your mind conjures up. It might come as a surprise what pleasure awaits you!!
LoLo's Sunshine 