Change your room: Carol Smillie's tips for updating your home with second hand furniture
THE ever-glamorous DIY expert reveals how you can refresh your decor and interiors with vintage finds for as little as £30
Best known for presenting hit interiors programme Changing Rooms, which ran from 1996 until 2004, Carol Smillie knows a thing or two about DIY.
Thanks to her knack of finding retro furniture treasures, upcycling them and turning them into much-loved pieces, the 52-year-old has been snapped up by the British Heart Foundation's (BHF) Furniture and Electrical stores to be their latest Homes Expert.
“BHF Furniture & Electrical stores are a treasure chest of unique finds which will really make your home stand out," she said.
"It’s amazing to think that by doing up your home with items from BHF stores, you are also funding life-saving research which could create a better future for many."
With more than 170 stores nationwide, and items ranging from at little as £30, Carol says second hand shopping is the best way to update your home.
Here, she shares her top tips for finding high quality pieces are bargain prices.
ACT FAST
Don’t linger when it comes to buying second hand items.
If you fall in love with something, snap it up straight away otherwise you’re likely to be disappointed on your second visit.
SPOT POTENTIAL
If you’re a fan of the shape and style of a furniture piece don’t get too hung up on the colour or condition.
Upcycling items is easy so with a quick sand down and a lick of paint you can create a bespoke vintage feel.
IGNORE DODGY UPHOLSTERY
Let’s face it, certain fabric patterns are outdated but often the legs and arms of a chair are classic.
Remember you can simply remove the old fabric and update it with something to your taste, to match your home.
BE IMAGINATIVE
Try to visualise what items will look like in your home when shopping for second hand items. Anything unique that looks like a one off will stand out and add character.
MISMATCH
Don’t worry about every piece of furniture or accessory being exactly the same tone and style.
If you want to give you home an individual touch, a mix of styles will look fab.
CLEAR OUT
If you’re buying new items chances are, you’ll need to clear space so your home doesn’t look overcrowded.
Don’t forget to donate your unwanted items using the BHF’s free collection service.
You can book online at bhf.org.uk/free or call 0800 915 3000.