More often than not, we’re guilty of overspending on new items for the home whenever a cultural festival swings around. This time of the year, we’re celebrating Chinese New Year.

A family friend who owns a furniture store told me over the CNY break that his best sales months are Hari Raya followed by Chinese New Year. Why, oh why, do we feel the need to buy new things when we can repurpose old ones?  Simply turn what would be garbage, into new innovative fittings/ furnishing, AND at the same time feel less guilty because we’re reducing impact on the environment!

If you liked our previous article about upcycling and sustainable furnishing, then read on!!

I LOVE this idea about using old drawers for wall shelves. Especially if you have nice handle details like these drawers…

Old drawers with nice brass handle details (Photo credit: Designspongeonline.com)

Notice how they’re quite badly scratched. But nothing your neighbourhood handyman can’t work on! Just a little sanding down and a fresh coat of lacquer, and these drawers are ready to go.

After you’re happy with the finishing, mount them on the wall to form these shelves!

(Photo credit: designspongeonline.com)

OK so these are probably different drawers, or the handles could just be replaced. I’d keep the old brass handles cos I just love the antique-y feel of it. But to each his own, eh?

Share with us if you’ve attempted a similar upcycling project of your own!

And from  both Serena and I, Gong Xi Fa Cai to all of you celebrating!

XOXO