I try not to let decorative items like candles, plants, and books sit unchanged for too long at Casa Petersik. Living and working in the same space makes me crave visual variety, and I often prefer reworking what I already own over buying new pieces. It’s not a weekly ritual, and sometimes laziness wins, but every now and then I can’t resist a small switcheroo.
Recently I grabbed a round woven storage basket from the bathroom—an Ikea find for about $2—and slipped it over a simple white Ikea planter. Instantly: a woven planter with more texture and visual interest. Next I pulled out an empty green seeded glass hurricane from TJ Maxx (a $5 clearance score) and placed a pillar candle inside. Still a little plain. That’s when I remembered I had a bag of brown rice on hand—what about using it as vase filler?
The color and texture of the rice echo the woven basket, tying the look together. And you can’t beat the cost—using items you already own often converts to an inexpensive styling solution.
Repurposing everyday objects is fun and practical. It refreshes a space without a big investment and helps curb the urge to replace things every time your taste changes.
Speaking of plants, we recently picked up a little succulent for $3 at Lowe’s. It looks so chic in a white $1 Ikea planter we already had. One of our favorite styling tricks is stacking hardcover books and using them as plant pedestals—books lift and layer a vignette beautifully. You’ll even spot some books under the basket planter on our living room console.
Hardcover books often look cleaner without their dust jackets—the exposed fabric bindings offer a simple, elegant texture. So don’t be afraid to remove those plastic-y jackets and let the book spines contribute to your decor.
What about you? Do you repurpose everyday objects or pantry items in unexpected ways around your home? Share your ideas—those dried beans or rice you’ve got tucked away might make perfect vase filler or another clever decorative touch.