Blog - FunCycled - Interior Design, Kitchen Cabinet Painting, Furniture Repurposing in Upstate NY

Posted on December 17, 2024December 16, 2024 by Meg Booth — Leave a comment

Design Trends to Try in 2025

Hi friends!

I love looking ahead to see what is coming in the world of interior design! I guess that isn’t really a surprise! : ) Well, today, we are going to take a look ahead at 2025 to explore some fun, interesting, and inspiring trends lie ahead. Before we move into this list, I want to say that these trends can be applied to ANY room in your home! Overarching all of the trends is the continued presence and expression of maximalism design. This design style adopts a “more is more” approach and is often characterized by adding layers of eclectic elements, while mixing patterns, textures, and ideas.

Let’s dive in!

Trend #1: Curated Maximalism

For a couple of years, we witnessed a growing trend of maximalist design on Youtube, social media, and even spilling over into the fashion industry. This style is marked by excess and over-the-top pieces, essentially embracing a “more is more, and then some” philosophy and approach to designing a room. See the photo to the right.

While making a statement in your home is inspirational, doing so carries risks. A big challenge with design styles such as maximalism is that they can quickly become disjointed, cluttered, and chaotic. As quickly as this design trend hit the ground, it was equally matched in readily being marked as “way too much” and seemed to lose its purpose and essence in achieving “bold statement status” to completely missing the mark.

Thankfully, in light of the explosive aftermath that accompanied such a strong and bold design style that may have gone “too far” is a period of tempering and refinement. Thus, we are left with a style that won’t outpace itself and has staying power for those who want to embrace it: I give you curated maximalism!

Here are some defining features associated with this style:

strategic layering of textures, colors, and patterns
personalized pieces that are acquired over time
intentional mixing of design styles to create balance
incorporation of ornate styles and statement pieces

Below is a bedroom and living room design that display the art of Curated Maximalism. Take note of how BOTH of these rooms achieve a more harmonious and balanced look as compared to the photo I shared above.

Trend #2 Statement Rugs With Organic Lines or Bold, Geometric Shapes

This particular trend could be overwhelming because it is exactly as addressed, A “Statement” Rug. For that reason, people may be afraid to give it a try. I would suggest, if you want to give this trend a try and are feeling uneasy, stick with a neutral color with a high contrast as seen in the first two photos. They are bold and certainly make an impression, but the pallet does not overwhelm the room.

Trend #3 Deeply Saturated Rooms With an Emphasis on Moody and Rich Colors

Notice how the room on the left has the walls and ceiling painted the same color, whereas the room on the right leaves a high contrast, keeping the ceiling and crown painted in white? Either choice can be a good design choice for your room. It really is a personal preference. For the purpose of this blog, to achieve a deeply saturated look, you should choose to paint the whole room in the same color! Trust me, it can be really stunning! But both of these colors featured are rich and moody and certainly accomplish saturating the respective spaces.

Trend # 4 Bold Ceilings and Textured Walls

From Beams to Wallpapered Ceilings to Textured Walls, the year ahead will include ANY and ALL of it! Below are three distinct design ideas that feature different ways to meet this trend in your home.

Trend #5 Art Deco Style

Well, I am not going to be able to give you a fully comprehensive scope of Art Deco Design (which btw, it TOTALLY deserves!) But Art Deco Style is making a comeback in full swing. This design style dates back to the early 20th Century, first emerging in France and swiftly making across to the United States by the 1920’s. Some prominent features associated with this style are geometric shapes, luxurious fabrics, pointed edges, and mirrored surfaces to name just a few. Art Deco styling has a direct connection with the arts, serving to influence philosophical ideas, literature, and fashion throughout history.

Next up are 4 rooms that feature Art Deco Design Style, each with a distinct look but ALL are part of the Art Deco Style. I hope that helps you see and understand how design styles can be complex.

Room No. 1: Sleek Curved Lines and Bold Geometric Patterns

Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg c/o HGTV Blog

Room No. 2: Bold Color Contrast, Statement Lighting, and Arched Ceiling

Photo: Douglas Friedman c/o Architectural Digest

Room No. 3: Gold Metal Accents, Globe Style Lighting, Sleek & Lush Fabric Selections

Room No. 4: Layered Geometric Linear Shapes, Strategic Use of Mirrors and Lighting, and Architectural Features

Helpful Conclusions

I love sharing these design trends and what is ahead! but I think it is IMPERATIVE that we understand adopting all trends should never be our goal. So PLEASE DO NOT think that you should! It is fun to share and be inspired to try something new!

Give your home a new look!

I hope this post has inspired you to consider implementing a new style into your home. Even just adding some new and fresh elements can reimagine your space for the year ahead! It just takes a little time and creativity!

Could you use a little help figuring this out or pulling your ideas together? We are here to help. Reach out to our team at FunCycled by contacting us today, or go ahead and schedule your 1 Hour Interior Design Appointment today. It would be a pleasure making your house feel just like your home!

Schedule a 1 Hour Design Consult

Thank you all for following along! If you’d like to get this blog in your email once a week, please sign up for our weekly newsletter by adding your email in the little box below my picture at the top of this page.

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please like FunCycled on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest if you don’t already. Keep up to date on the newest finds, vote on colors and give your input on our creativity. We share fun tutorials, great before and after, and new design inspirations.

We offer interior design, kitchen cabinet painting, and custom built tables, barn doors, and repurposed furniture. Thank you for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on December 10, 2024December 2, 2024 by Meg Booth — Leave a comment

Kitchen Cabinet Painting in Warm White and Cabinet Alterations – Albany, NY

Hi, Friends!

I hope you had a wonderful and beautiful Thanksgiving! My family and I enjoyed time with friends and family. I am blessed, and I hope you feel the same!

Today’s blog is a great example of an open kitchen concept that isn’t quite flowing. Often times when a kitchen is built, right next to it is the dining area which quickly flows into the living space of the home. Makes sense, right?! From a layout perspective, it totally does. But what do you do when that space doesn’t exactly work together? The flow may be fine, but visually is a different story. Jessica and her husband have a great kitchen – it has a lot of storage, it has good flow, and it is connected to an eating area as well as living area. The problem is (well was) that it was not cohesive and it was missing a few functionalities and a little character. Thankfully, FunCycled knows how to tackle all of that!

Let’s take a look at Jessica’s kitchen BEFORE.

So let’s identify the challenges and issues that Jessica and her husband were facing: Wood tone on wood tone, different cabinet designs, too many elements competing with one another, and finally, no place to house a garbage can. That’s right! Sometimes the best laid plans overlook the very essentials we need! So here’s what we did!

The color on the cabinets is Soft Chamois, pronounced “shammy” – it’s French ; ) This color serves to brighten the space up while keeping it warm. This beige hue works to neutralize the competing wood tones, and since it is a warm white is complements the wood floors, making the design rich and inviting!

And here are the after photos. Can you believe the difference?

And remember how I said Jessica was missing some important functionality in this kitchen? Like, no place for the trash can….Well, all has been remedied! John converted part of the lower cabinet to accommodate the garbage and recycling bins. Problem solved. Here’s the before and after.

Corner cabinets are tricky. They aren’t exactly functional, so Jessica asked if we would be able to leave the doors off. So, off came the doors, and we painted the inside and removed the hinges, of course! Take a look at the change. Now the end cabinets can be used for display or to hold small kitchen essentials that are also pretty to look at!

We just loved completing this project! Thanks, Jessica, for working with us and for trusting FunCycled with your kitchen project!

We offer interior design, kitchen cabinet painting, and custom built tables, barn doors, and repurposed furniture. Thank you, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on December 3, 2024December 2, 2024 by Meg Booth — Leave a comment

Make it a Christmas to Remember

Hi, friends!

Well, here we go…it’s officially December, and if you are like me, you are in full Christmas mode! Which, by the way, I LOVE! So, today, I want to share with you a curated list of the best of Christmas decor, including some things that are absolute musts for Christmas 2024. Let’s jump in!

I have said it before, and I will say it again…it is important that clients understand that following trends should NEVER be the goal when designing your home and does not need to be your focus when it comes to decorating it either. That said, keeping an eye on trends can be fun and inspirational and is a great way to explore options we might not otherwise consider. So what you have before you is a list of items I have curated that are technically trending but are sure to include decor pieces that you can use year over year as well. The overarching theme of Christmas 2024 (whether you live in Upstate New York or across the nation) is Nostalgic Christmas. This can mean a variety of things to all of us as we recall childhood memories, but across the board, we are seeing notes of tradition, history, and vintage elements being incorporated into Christmas.

Traditional Patterns & Nostalgic Finds

Shades of red and green are an absolute must this year. For a few years, we have seen a lighter and neutral pallet more congruent with earth tones and a relaxed calming hues. But this year, you can count on rich & traditional tones and nostalgic patterns. Here are some festive decor items to add charm to your room.

Garland

This year, we are seeing garland, garland, garland, everywhere garland. From evergreens, to pine-cones, to ribbons (also another trend), to beads and tinsel. Below are some quality pine garlands that could be used on a railing, a mantle, or incorporated into your table decor.

Here are some decorative garlands that could be used to add layers to your Christmas tree or intertwined into your mantle display. I love that all of these give a nod to history and nostalgia!

Ribbons

So last year, ribbons made a come back with the emergence of Cottagecore decorating and also likely due to the release of Season 2 of Bridgerton, full of Regency and Victorian Style. Apparently nothing quite captures that vibe like ribbons! But it was this year, that the trend went so viral, hitting tiktok in a major way and helped spur an appreciation for what has been a “traditional” Christmas decor piece for centuries that spans generations.

If you have seen this trend, then you are seeing it showcased, tagged, and mentioned by young and old. The inspiration is this ribbon garland from Anthropologie. It’s pretty, but it is a little spendy. My suggestion, make your own or this kit from Amazo n could be a great option. Plus, the link I have shared also includes a DIY video-it looks super easy and it will save you a bunch!

Ribbons aren’t just showing up as Christmas garland. We are seeing ribbons tied to Christmas trees – ornament style, donning tops of trees, being placed on vases and everyday decor items, and embellishing kitchen cabinet doors. Here are some options you could consider for your own home.

Tinsel & Vintage Inspired Trees

If you grew up in the 1980’s, you may remember a tree that looked a little like this one, decked out in loops of tacky tinsel – fun memories, but not exactly classy.

This year, so many are resurrecting the tinsel vibes and adding layers of tinsel, ribbons, and vintage ornaments for an explosion of nostalgia. But this time around, the decor is beautiful and the visual appeal well beyond the tackiness we may associate with those silver strands we know as TINSEL! Here’s an inspiration photo and some links below to get your perfectly tinsel and vintage adorned tree.

24 Pack Glass Vintage Ornaments – Amazon

Multi-colored Vintage Ornaments – Amazon

Red and Green (with a twist!)

Christmas trees this season are donning the same traditional hues of green and red, but with a new and rich twist. You will find rich burgundy’s and deeper greens adorning Christmas celebrations. Check out some inspiration and helpful links to create your own!

Vintage Finial Ornaments in Bordeaux – Amazon

I hope you have found some new inspiration or ideas to try out this year for yourself!

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on November 26, 2024November 21, 2024 by Meg Booth — Leave a comment

Three Easy Ways to Maximize Unused Space in Your Home

Hi, friends!

Every home has areas that are often left underutilized or neglected, and yours is likely not immune to this fact. Whether you have an awkward corner, an empty hallway, or a small nook that is underutilized, I am here to tell you that the solutions to these challenges abound!

In today’s blog, I want to help you explore ways to make the most of those forgotten corners and untapped spaces in your home. With a little creativity and some thoughtful design, these areas can become beautiful and functional parts in your home. Let’s take a look!

1. Transform Your Hallway into a Functional Space

Hallways often become the neglected in-between areas of the home. While they are typically seen as passageways, hallways can be designed to be both functional and beautiful. With the right design approach, they can serve as an opportunity for additional storage or as an aesthetic feature in your home

What to do:

Add Floating Shelves or Wall-mounted Cabinets: Hallways are perfect for extra storage. Install floating shelves to display art, plants, or books, or choose narrow, wall-mounted cabinets to store everyday items like keys, mail, and hats.
Use the Floor Space for Storage: In narrow hallways, consider using stylish storage benches or baskets to store shoes or blankets. If space allows, a small console table can offer a spot for mail and keys, while also providing surface space for decorative items.
Incorporate Mirrors to Open Up the Space: Hallways are often small and narrow, so mirrors can help make them feel larger and brighter. Choose decorative mirrors with unique frames to add visual interest while improving light flow.

Get the Look – Take a look at some products that will help you transform your hallway and serve double duty!

I like these two mirror options because they have some unique features that work well to add visual interest and reflect light to create a more open appearance.

These slim storage solutions are perfect for adding character while keeping things tucked away. I like that both of these can be used individually OR you can put two side by side to fill a long hallway and contain even more!

2. Convert Unused Corners into Cozy Retreats

Sometimes, all it takes to make a space feel more welcoming is to give it a clear purpose. Take, for example, a forgotten corner in your living room or bedroom and picture it totally transformed into a cozy retreat or a functional area with the right design ideas.

What to do:

Create a Cozy Reading Nook: Add a comfortable chair or small chaise lounge, some throw pillows, and a floor lamp for reading. This can be a lovely way to turn a neglected corner into a peaceful space to unwind.
Design a Mini Office or Study Corner: A simple desk, ergonomic chair, and good lighting can easily turn an empty corner into a productivity zone. Add organizational elements like wall hooks, a small filing cabinet, or a bulletin board for extra function.
Create a Relaxation Zone: If you have the space, turn an unused corner into a mini meditation or relaxation area with floor cushions, plants, and calming décor. A quiet retreat in the corner of your home can be a perfect way to de-stress.

Get the Look – Here are some ideas and products to get you started on the right relaxation nook!

These oversized chairs are distinctly designed with relaxation in mind.

I like that the tall white shelf keeps everything uniform, but the open back keeps the design airy and allows your books to serve as display items! This wooden shelf is great for a nook that is located in an area with sloped ceilings.

5 Tier Bookcase with Adjustable Shelves – Amazon

3. Reimagine an Untapped Niche into a Bar Experience

The idea of having a bar area does not have to be complicated and does not require a large area. With just the right unused niche (and a little planning), you can achieve this for yourself!

What to do:

Add Cabinets in a Corner or Niche Area: Many homes have small corners or niches that connect our living spaces. Select an accent color to liven up the space or keep your design neutral and let other elements make the statement.
Introduce a Bar Cart or Coffee Station: If you love coffee or cocktails, dedicate a corner to a stylish bar cart or coffee station. Add a statement piece of furniture, a tray with your favorite bottles or mugs, and a touch of greenery for a functional and beautiful nook.
Stack Shelves or Hang Wall Cabinets to House Barware: Unused walls or passthrough areas serve as a great platform for open shelving where specialty glasses and bar essentials can be at the ready. Or find a unique small vintage cabinet and mount it on the wall to hold accessories and your favorite cocktail mixes can be stored.

Get the Look – The best way to get this kind of look is to add built-in’s. FunCycled can actually help you accomplish this as part of our Design Services. If you are inspired by something you see here (or another pic), let us know. Or if you need help pulling together the design before the project starts, I would love to help! You will find the link to get started posted below.

Embrace Every Inch of Your Home

I hope this post has inspired you to consider the unused spaces in your home to be reimagined into beautiful and functional spaces that help reflect your personality and lifestyle. All it takes is a little creativity!

Schedule a 1 Hour Design Consult

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on November 19, 2024November 14, 2024 by Meg Booth

Four Kitchen Designs: Farmhouse, Coastal, MCM, and Industrial

Hi, friends!

Today, I am excited to share about four unique kitchen styles – all of which have been inspirational to me over the years! I want to break down some of the distinctive design elements for each style that help you understand how to get this look in your own kitchen. NOTE, this is not meant to be a comprehensive list for each style. It is a quick overview and guide to each of them. Take a look, and don’t forget to leave a comment about which style most reflects you!

Farmhouse Kitchens

Distinctive Elements: apron sinks, open shelving, exposed brick & wood beams, mix of wood and metal, cup drawer pulls & mixed hardware, “aged metals” matte black or oil rubbed bronze, Shaker style cabinets, white subway tile, and butcher block counters

Farmhouse Kitchen by FunCycled

Coastal Kitchens

Distinctive Elements: light airy colors, baskets & shells, natural elements & light, natural fibers, beachy decor & nautical elements, woven elements like rattan and jute, clean lines, linen fabric, matte paint finishes, and white walls

Coastal Lakehouse Kitchen by FunCycled

Industrial Kitchens

Distinctive Elements: stainless steel, open shelving, exposed brick or piping, concrete, open storage, utilitarian layout, colors are limited to very neutral palette (grays, whites, browns, blacks), simple pendant lighting

Industrial Rustic Kitchen by FunCycled

Mid Century Modern Kitchens

Distinctive Elements– clean lines, use of warm tones ranging from earthy to bold, a lot of wood elements, tile in stacked pattern, flat paneled cabinets, geometric patterns,

Mid Century Inspired Kitchen by FunCycled

I hope you have enjoyed learning a little more about these kitchen styles! If you would like to find out how to create one of these kitchen styles into your home, I would love to help you. We provide FREE quotes for our kitchen cabinet painting services. Just email me at sarah@funcycled.com and let me know you want your FREE quote today. Or, if you aren’t sure if you can use your current cabinets and are considering starting fresh, maybe starting with a design consult is better for you. You can book a 1 Hour Design Consultation with me by clicking the link below.

Schedule Your 1 Hour Design Consultation

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on November 12, 2024November 8, 2024 by Meg Booth

A Place to Gather

Hi, friends!

Well, my guess is that in a few short weeks, many of us will be hosting people for Thanksgiving Day. I am not sure about you, but I have often found that this holiday is sometimes glossed over, being sandwiched between a growing emergence of halloween and harvest festivities and an earlier and earlier onset for Christmas prep! All good things mind you, but they don’t exactly carve out the right tenor and tone for as special a holiday as Thanksgiving. After all, if there is one attitude in life we should all be pursuant of it’s an attitude of thanks.

So today, I am sharing some beautiful design ideas with you as you plan for your day and get ready to host guests. I think it’s important to create a space that draws people in and allows them to gather and be grateful together! To do this, I like to create a warm & welcoming atmosphere that has a few touches of nostalgia for my holiday gatherings.

Below, I have outlined, step by step on how to do this your home. And by the way, Step Four might just be my favorite part!

STEP ONE: GET INSPIRED

Below are two beautifully dressed tables set for guests to come, eat, and commune with one another.

STEP TWO: ASSESS TABLE & SEATING

Maybe you don’t need a new table and chairs, but in case you are looking, here are some ideas for you:

Custom Tables from FunCycled

You could also consider having FunCycled custom build a table that fits your style and needs exactly. I am sharing just TWO of SEVERAL that we have designed and built over the last several years. I encourage you to browse all of our options on our Custom Built Furniture page.

Custom Builds by FunCycled

STEP THREE: TIME TO DECORATE

LAYER ONE: Table Runner & Garland

This layer should introduce some low texture to the table. I like table runners and garland for this job.

LAYER TWO: Place Settings

Some may choose to do this after creating a centerpiece, but I think it works better to understand the flow and space needed for plates, napkins, glasses, etc. first.

Placemats or Chargers

Napkins (cloth or paper)

Flatware

Glasses

LAYER THREE: Create the Perfect Centerpiece

Start with something large for the middle. I like to start with something vintage, like a vintage pitcher or vase and add fresh flowers or even dried florals. Adding touches of mercury glass or faux dried stems will help create this effect if you don’t have something readily available.

Candlesticks

Using a variety of heights, materials and textures adds warmth to the table.

Table Scatter

STEP FOUR: Time to Give Thanks

Set aside some time to remind your guests why everyone is gathered on this day. Here are some ways to do this:

Leave a personal note of thanks to each guest.
Add special quotes about gratitude and thankfulness at each place setting.
Provide a prompting question at each guest’s plate & then ask quests to share their responses with the table.

Notes and messages could be added to a napkin ring or out of a personalized cornucopia stuffed with greenery or even lined with parchment paper and filled with a small fruit salad. Have fun with this and make it your own!

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on November 5, 2024November 4, 2024 by Meg Booth — 2 Comments

Customized Table with Reclaimed Wood & Vintage Chairs

Hi, friends!

If you struggle with pulling ideas together, this post is for you! When our client, Sandy, reached out to us, she asked us to help pull all of her ideas and various pieces of her project together. And just what was her idea? To use reclaimed barn wood as a table top for a new (much friendlier) dining table for her family! For the better part of five years, Sandy had a vision to use 200 year old boards from her barn as a table top to replace her current (not so useful) high-top table.

“…I have a base for a dining table, and I have 200 year old barn boards from my barn that I love. I have had a vision for the last 5 years of making a table out of them…”

Sandy is a creative person and she could imagine the end result, but she was lacking a couple of things: first, she needed the right base to accompany the (what she knew would be) gorgeous top; second, she needed to find some new chairs that would work with her vision; and finally, she needed someone to get the project done. Well, as things would work out, Sandy scored the perfect base for her table. Sure it was in rough shape, but it was sturdy…it just needed the right top! (This is where the barn wood comes in!) So Sandy reached out to us and got her project rolling.

Shortly after meeting with us, Sandy sent an email and shared that she found some cool, vintage chairs that would work perfectly. Just like the base, the chairs were sturdy but needed a refresh. With the pieces in place, we got to work!

Before Photos

On the left you will see the base that she found second hand. It was a little scuffed up, but the base was well constructed and was sturdy. Similarly, the chairs (one shown on the right) were in pretty good shape with just a few scuffs, but solid in construction. Now that Sandy had all of the pieces, it was time to pull together her ideas into a plan of action!

A really neat part of completing a project

Bonus: Using Reclaimed Wood

It is important to understand that if you have or are considering using any kind of reclaimed wood as Sandy did with her barn wood, you need to know a few things:

Condition – assess the integrity of the wood; does it have so many splits that it will not be functional?
Prepped Appropriately – make sure the wood has been dried out and has been cleaned/cleared of any mites or small bugs that would potential damage the wood or would be harmful if not remediated; consider having the wood milled to ensure smooth and consistent lines.
Ensure the Finish – you do not necessarily need to finish reclaimed wood, but it does depend on where/how it is going to be used. Be sure you double check with a professional to see if it should be sealed or oiled.

And now the after photos.

Just take a look at the top of the table. In working with Sandy, she was able to identify and communicate to us the edges she was hopeful to keep in tact as well as the spot of character she desired to have part of the finished top. We were able to incorporate and preserve those details and incorporate them into the design and finished outcome. It is stunning!

For Sandy’s project, we left the wood as is. It did not need to be sealed since Sandy had a glass top to put on it. Adding glass is a great way to keep things protected while enjoying the ability to see the beautiful wood. And, again, Sandy already had the glass, so she was able to reuse yet another piece to this project!

We used Benjamin Moore Black for the chairs and table base and distressed both so the details and history of each could be honored.

Here’s a picture of the newly customized table and refreshed chairs back at home. Oh, and Sandy also found some vintage Cushman chairs to accompany the set we customized for her. Due to the rareness of the Cushman chairs, Sandy chose to keep them in their original form. We love the combination of new mixed with old!

I love the table! It looks amazing at night with the reflection from the glass. It turned out beautiful!
Sandy – Cohoes, NY

There isn’t really anything to NOT LOVE about this story, but what makes my heart smile a little more is how beautifully all of the components came together! Sandy reused and repurposed and stayed patient to watch her new table and chairs come to life! Right?! Doesn’t it just make you happy!

Thanks, Sandy, for choosing FunCycled for this project! We are so excited for your “new” table and chairs and hope they will be a place where many treasured memories are made!

If you have a piece of furniture and would like us to restore life back into it, contact me today by visiting our Contact Us page! You can also learn more about our process on our Custom Furniture Painting Page.

Thank you all for following along! If you’d like to get this blog in your email once a week, please sign up for our weekly newsletter by adding your email in the little box below my picture.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on October 29, 2024October 29, 2024 by Meg Booth

Balboa Mist – The Perfect Gray for these Dressers in Waterford, NY

Hi, friends!

I never grow tired of sharing makeover stories with you! You might think its because everyone loves a good makeover, and while that is true, it is NOT the reason I want to share them with you. When clients ask FunCycled to take on a project, we sign on for way more than just some pieces of furniture or outdated cabinets. We step into people’s lives, hear their history, learn their challenges, and help discern their dreams! It is always an honor to be part of this journey – for our clients and for you! I love having an opportunity to help all of us grow and that is exactly what we do when we enter in like this! What a privilege for FunCycled!

In today’s makeover, I want to introduce you to Anne and her, well, maybe a little outdated but dearly loved dressers. You may share common ground with Anne. Dressers or furniture that has been part of your story for a long time but has come to a place where it is time for a change. I often find when clients come to this realization, they are almost so eager to embrace the change that their mind runs wild with possibilities for revitalizing their beloved pieces, sometimes leaving them in a place of decision mania. Thankfully, we at FunCycled know how to help sift through ideas and guide them to decisions that will honor the integrity of their furniture and its history, breath new life into them, and become a refreshed piece that they can enjoy for their next season of life.

In meeting with Anne, she conveyed a few challenges surrounding her dressers: 1) they were spread out among her home and where her mother lives, 2) she would like the option of using any and all of them interchangeably in the various rooms of her home and also where her mother resides, and 3) she had so many ideas that she did not know where to land. And that’s when our team stepped in!

Here are the pictures of her dressers before. It is not shown here, but there is a taller dresser that matches the one on the left.

Change the Hardware (or Keep it?) & Selecting the Right Color

We decided to keep the hardware that is currently on the dressers because all of it was in good condition and the styles coordinated well with their respective pieces. This is an important element to consider when weighing out whether to change the hardware on a piece of furniture. In order to achieve a cohesive look, we decided to paint all of the pieces the same color. I love Benjamin Moore’s Balboa Mist. Although considered part of the off-white collection, I would still consider Balboa Mist in the gray family. It has a gentle warm undertone but pairs well with most finishes and serves as a beautiful backdrop for a large variety of colors, cool and warm alike. Here is a swatch.

And here are the after photos of the matching set

And here is the stand alone dresser (which can now stand alone or be mixed in with the others as needed!)

A huge thanks to Anne for working with us and for letting us be part of this furniture project. We are so glad that these pieces have new life and you are able to mix and match in whatever spaces they need to be used!

Thank you all for following along! If you’d like to get this blog in your email once a week, please sign up for our weekly newsletter by adding your email in the little box below my picture.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on October 22, 2024October 21, 2024 by Meg Booth

Caring for Your Painted Furniture

Hi, friends!

Without question, adding a special piece of furniture that is custom painted adds character and charm to any space, making it a popular choice for all design styles. However, to keep it looking its best, proper care and maintenance are essential. In today’s blog, I am sharing practical tips and guidance to help preserve the beauty of your painted furniture, ensuring it lasts for years to come. Let’s dive in!

FunCycled Furniture Painting Projects

Take a look at some fun furniture transformations over the years!

Routine Cleaning

Maintaining painted furniture starts with regular cleaning to prevent dirt and grime buildup.

Dusting: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to dust your furniture weekly. Avoid feather dusters, as they can scratch the surface.
Wipe Down: Once a week or every other week, go ahead and wipe the furniture down with a warm, damp cloth that has been well squeezed or rung out. Wipe all exterior surfaces.
Mild Soap: For more thorough cleaning, use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution. I suggest a small bead of dawn dish detergent diluted in 32 oz of water. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the paint. Always follow up with a dry cloth to prevent moisture damage.

Protecting the Finish

To keep your painted furniture looking fresh, protect it from potential damage:

Coasters and Placemats: Always use coasters for drinks and placemats for hot dishes to prevent heat and moisture damage.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Position your furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration over time.
Keep a Consistent Temperature: If your furniture is exposed to extreme cold and heat, your painted surface may become damaged. Make sure your furniture is kept in a zone with a consistent temperature.

Dealing with Scratches and Scuffs

We all know accidents happen, and thankfully, there are ways to address minor imperfections that come with wear and tear:

Touch-Up Paint: Keep a small amount of your original paint on hand for quick touch-ups. I like to use this angled sponge tip brush. It keeps the paint focused to one area.
Buffing: For surface scratches, lightly buff the area with a soft cloth. This may help to blend the scratch with the surrounding paint.

Handling Major Repairs

For more significant damage or wear, you may want to consider having your piece repainted.

Repainting it Yourself: If your furniture has become dull or heavily damaged, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. If you want to handle this type of project on your own, check out this blog post, How to Paint Furniture Like a Pro.

Here are some beautiful choices you could select!

Or maybe you want to consider a little bit of color…I love these two! They are rich and elegant!

Having FunCycled Repaint it for You: We are glad to work with you again and would be happy to refresh your furniture in the same color, or you can choose to have it repainted in a new color. You can contact us with all of the details here: Contact Us

Contact FunCycled Today!

Well there you have it…some helpful hints to help you care for your painted furniture item so you can enjoy its beauty for years. By following these maintenance tips—regular cleaning, protective measures, and timely repairs—you can keep your pieces looking fresh and vibrant. Whether it’s a cherished heirloom or a trendy DIY project, a little attention goes a long way in preserving the charm of your painted furniture. Enjoy!

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Posted on October 15, 2024October 14, 2024 by Meg Booth

Heartwarming Before & After: China Cabinet Painted Sweatshirt Gray

Hi, friends!

I am so excited to share today’s Tuesday Treasure with you! Before I get to that, I want to give a shout out to my team and all they did for helping FunCycled host the 2024 Fall Festival a couple of weeks ago! It was a beautiful day, and I enjoyed spending time with old and new friends who stopped by! Check out some sweet photos from the event.

At the event, the 336 Food Truck really delivered on their latest offering…extra creamy hot cocoa with perfectly toasted marshmallow topping! I mean I had to try it! : )

Take a look at that crew, hard at work!

Today, I am featuring our latest furniture makeover story which was actually the winner of our most recent Broken to Beautiful free furniture makeover initiative. For all of the details on FunCycled’s Broken to Beautiful, please read our full blog post here: FunCycled’s Broken to Beautiful.

This heartwarming makeover story relays the tale of a china cabinet passed down from a beloved grandparent to her adoring granddaughter. In Jessica’s own words, “it is a treasured heirloom that carries deep emotional and familial significance. This elegant piece embodies not only the craftsmanship and style of its time but also the warmth and love of my grandmother’s home.” Jessica also shared that her hope would be to use a restored version of the cabinet to display the fine china collection that had been curated by her grandmother on her father’s side. Both of these women have passed, but Jessica wanted to honor the heritage and legacies of each through this one piece of furniture, sure to keep their history and memories alive in a new way. Exactly the heart of Broken to Beautiful!

Here are some pictures of the china cabinet before it was refreshed.

When we first spoke with Jessica to share with her that she had been selected as the recipient of the Summer Broken to Beautiful Initiative, she was beyond elated at the prospect of having this precious piece rejuvenated! I still recall her voice as it choked up with joy and overwhelm.

One really important component to the Broken to Beautiful initiative is that we desire to breathe new life into old or broken pieces of furniture in order to bring joy and hope into someone’s life! We are so glad that we got to do this for Jessica and her family.

Take a look at some after photos of the china cabinet redone.

Here are the photos of Jessica with her now refreshed china cabinet filled with the treasured china given to her! What a beautiful honor to both of her grandmother’s legacies!

And here are some additional details of the cabinet.

We painted the inside of the cabinet in Benjamin Moore Simply White and the whole exterior in Benjamin Moore Sweatshirt Gray. Those swatches are below, so you can see how these beautiful colors work together! Plus, as you see in the last photo above, we lightly distressed some of the edges around the door, the drawer, and molding of this item. When you take time to appropriately distress, it will emphasize and draw (well deserved) attention to all of the right details! And, we decided to keep the original hardware for this item. Keeping the same hardware is a way of preserving history and often is the only complement for an older piece like this cabinet.

A huge thank you to Jessica and family for entering the Broken to Beautiful Initiative and for allowing us the opportunity to refresh this cabinet that you may begin creating new memories that honor and cherish those from your youth!

Please keep an eye on our social channels for our next Broken to Beautiful campaign. We encourage our community to not only consider their own stories for submission but to also submit on behalf of a deserving individual who would be deserving of this furniture makeover. Again, full details for the Broken to Beautiful Initiative can be found in the link below.

FunCycled’s Broken to Beautiful Initiative

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from any qualifying purchases.

Trend #1: Curated Maximalism

Trend #2 Statement Rugs With Organic Lines or Bold, Geometric Shapes

Trend #3 Deeply Saturated Rooms With an Emphasis on Moody and Rich Colors

Trend # 4 Bold Ceilings and Textured Walls

Trend #5 Art Deco Style

Room No. 1: Sleek Curved Lines and Bold Geometric Patterns

Room No. 2: Bold Color Contrast, Statement Lighting, and Arched Ceiling

Room No. 3: Gold Metal Accents, Globe Style Lighting, Sleek & Lush Fabric Selections

Room No. 4: Layered Geometric Linear Shapes, Strategic Use of Mirrors and Lighting, and Architectural Features

Helpful Conclusions

Give your home a new look!

Traditional Patterns & Nostalgic Finds

Garland

Ribbons

Tinsel & Vintage Inspired Trees

Red and Green (with a twist!)

1. Transform Your Hallway into a Functional Space

2. Convert Unused Corners into Cozy Retreats

3. Reimagine an Untapped Niche into a Bar Experience

Embrace Every Inch of Your Home

Farmhouse Kitchens

Farmhouse Kitchen by FunCycled

Coastal Kitchens

Coastal Lakehouse Kitchen by FunCycled

Industrial Kitchens

Industrial Rustic Kitchen by FunCycled

Mid Century Modern Kitchens

Mid Century Inspired Kitchen by FunCycled

STEP ONE: GET INSPIRED

STEP TWO: ASSESS TABLE & SEATING

STEP THREE: TIME TO DECORATE

STEP FOUR: Time to Give Thanks

Bonus: Using Reclaimed Wood

FunCycled Furniture Painting Projects

Routine Cleaning

Protecting the Finish

Dealing with Scratches and Scuffs

Handling Major Repairs

Sarah Trop