In our world, we talk a lot about breathing new life into what you already own, but sometimes a room needs a fresh foundation. This happens quickly in high use spaces, like the living room. Whether you’re snuggling up with the kiddos for a movie night or hosting friends for a long weekend, having a sectional sofa to accommodate these moments is often a key element. But let’s be real: spending thousands on a sofa is nerve-wracking!

To me, sustainability isn’t just about repurposing; it’s about buying things that don’t end up in a landfill in three years. Sometimes it means investing in pieces with ‘life-proof’ quality that handle the beautiful chaos of real family life while still maintaining beautiful design for years to come.

Today, I’m sharing my curated list of the best sectionals under $5,000 that I truly believe are worth your hard-earned investment. We aren’t just looking at the price tag; we are looking at the “soul” of the piece: the frame construction, the fabric durability (yes, high rub count matters!), and the versatility to grow with you.

The Investment Checklist: Your 30-Second Quality Audit

Before you start your search, it is important to have an understanding of what to look for. Here’s a quick list of FIVE MARKERS that identity whether a sectional is designed for ‘real life.”

• #1 Kiln-Dried Hardwood Frames: Standard wood warps; kiln-drying removes moisture to prevent squeaking and snapping.
• #2 High-Density Foam: Foam density isn’t about firmness; it’s about longevity. A 2.0+ rating ensures your cushions don’t turn into pancakes by next year.
• #3 Commercial-Grade Fabric: Look for a “double rub” count of 30,000 or higher. This ensures the fabric won’t thin or pill from pets, kids, and movie nights.
• #4 Sinuous Springs or Pocket Coils: Think of this as the “engine” under your seat. Sinuous springs work in a continuous “S” pattern and are designed to prevent sagging. Pieces made with pocket coils provide support designed for a more “sink-in” kind of feel.
• #5 Future-Proof Design: Life changes! Look for brands that offer modular configurations, reversible chaises, or replacement parts. Even if you buy a fixed “Left-Arm” sectional today, an investment-grade brand (like Sabai or 7th Avenue) will let you buy individual pieces or new covers down the road so you don’t have to replace the whole couch if you move.

Our Top 7 “Life-Proof” Picks

1. The Gold Standard: 7th Avenue 4-Seat Open Corner Sectional

Why it’s a winner: If you want the “Cloud” look without the “Cloud” sagging, this is it. It hits the Future-Proof marker perfectly because every single piece is modular and the covers are 100% removable and washable.

• The Investment Marker: By far, this fabric is a major game changer! Their DWR-coated fabric is designed so that any liquid that spills will literally bead up on the surface.
• Fear Remover: Worried about white furniture? Don’t be. Reviewers comment that even dark drinks or sauces are so easily wiped up without leaving a stain behind.
• Skip if: You prefer a very firm, formal sit. This is built for deep lounging.

2. The Designer’s Choice: Burrow Ember Sectional

Why we love it: This isn’t your average “boxy” sectional. The Ember features elegant, sloping lines that feel high-end and custom. The colors are also a beautiful choice for a touch of elegance.

• The Investment Marker: Commercial-Grade Fabric. The performance chenille is incredibly soft but hits that high rub count we look for to prevent pilling.
• Fear Remover: Are you concerned the high end look is not true in person? No. The walnut legs and seaglass fabric make this look like a $10,000 showroom piece.
• Skip if: You have a massive family. This is more of a sophisticated “conversation” sectional than a “fit-everyone-and-the-dog” seating option.

3. The Family Workhorse: Burrow Nomad (6-Seat Corner) Sectional

Why we love it: When you need to seat a crowd but don’t want to spend $8,000, the Nomad is the answer. It’s our largest recommendation for maximum seating.

• The Investment Marker: Kiln-Dried Frame. Despite its size, the frame is solid and designed to be disassembled and moved easily.
• Fear Remover: Worried about getting a massive sectional through a 30-inch door? This ships in manageable boxes, solving the “staircase struggle” entirely.
• Skip if: You want a “sink-in” feather feel. The Nomad is more structured and supportive.

Try the “Corner Lift” test. Lift one front corner 6 inches off the ground. The other front leg should lift, too. If it stays down, the frame is twisting and isn’t strong enough!

Pro Tip from the Funcycled design team

4. The Eco-Conscious Pick: Sabai Elevate Sectional

Why we love it: This is the ultimate “Brighter Future” choice. It’s made from recycled water bottles and FSC-certified wood.

• The Investment Marker: Future-Proof (Repairability). Sabai is unique because they sell replacement components. If a dog chews one leg, you just buy a new leg, not a new couch.
• Fear Remover: “What if it wears out?” Sabai’s “Buyback” program proves they stand by their longevity.
• Skip if: You want a massive, deep-seat lounging sectional. This has a more standard, space-conscious depth.

5. The Timeless Leather: Article Sven Corner Bench Seat Sectional

Why we love it: Leather is nature’s performance fabric. The Sven is a mid-century icon that actually gets better as it ages.

• The Investment Marker: High-Density Foam. The Sven uses a mix of foam and feathers that provides that classic “broken-in” leather comfort without losing its shape.
• Fear Remover: Spills? Just wipe them off. Scratches? They blend into the patina. It’s the ultimate pet-owner hack.
• Skip if: You hate the “lived-in” look. This leather will develop creases and character over time.

6. The Clean-Freak’s Dream: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Sectional

Why we love it: If you want the ability to strip the entire couch and throw it in the wash, this is your winner.

• The Investment Marker: Sinuous Springs. Under that casual slipcover is a very serious, well-constructed frame and spring system that provides a “bench-made” feel.
• Fear Remover: The “bench seat” (one long cushion) means no one ever gets stuck in the “crack” between cushions.
• Skip if: You want a crisp, modern, tight-back look. This is a relaxed, coastal vibe.

Avoid “webbing-only” support. Without springs or coils, the seat will eventually stretch out like a worn-out trampoline.

Pro tip from the funcycled team

7. The Small Space Hero: Albany Park Kova 86″ + Ottoman Sectional

Why we love it: Most sectionals are too big for apartments. This condensed option gives you the L-shape look in under 8 feet.

• The Investment Marker: Future-Proof (Modularity). Since it’s essentially a sofa with a matching ottoman, you can move the “chaise” to either side depending on your next apartment’s layout.
• Fear Remover: “Will a sectional make my room feel small?” The Kova sits low to the ground, which keeps sightlines open and makes small rooms feel bigger.
• Skip if: You prefer a high back for neck support.

Final Wrap-Up & Recommendations

Choosing a sectional is a big step toward making your house feel like home. If you’re still stuck, here are my final two “tried and true” recommendations:

• For the “Forever Home” Investment: Go with the 7th Avenue Modular. Between the water-repellent fabric and the modular design, it’s the most resilient piece on our list. It’s built for the beautiful, messy, real life we all live.
• For the Smart, Small-Space Move: Grab the Albany Park Kova Sofa + Ottoman. It’s affordable, it fits in under 8 feet, and it ships in boxes that make delivery day a total breeze.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Life Proof Sectional?

Ready to see the current color options and shipping times? Click through to shop your favorite styles for your home!

Shop our top life-proof picks directly below:

• #1 Top Choice: 7th Avenue 4-Seat Modular
• Most Elegant: Burrow Ember Sectional
• Best Large Seating: Burrow Nomad (5-Seat)
• Best Sustainable: Sabai Elevate Sectional
• Best Leather: Article Sven (Tan Charme)
• Best Slipcovered: C&B Willow II
• Best for Compact Spaces: Albany Park Kova (86″ + Ottoman)

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, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, I only recommend products I genuinely love and trust.

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ; )

Because home is where peace begins.

Note some of the the links provided are affiliate links, and I may earn from any qualifying purchases.

How Neutrals Soothe the Senses and Clear the Mind

Creating and maintaining calm and mindfulness in your home is easily achieved by ensuring smooth transitions, adopting simple designs, and reflecting nature in your design choices. Using neutral colors works in conjunction with each of these principles. Here’s how:

• Neutral colors are soft and muted and help maintain a consistent visual palette, thus reducing visual clutter and minimize overstimulation.
• Calm hues invite peace and set a tone of serenity in the home. Making neutral choices will help us create a tranquil environment which sets the stage for mindfulness and clarity in our everyday lives.
• Neutrals allow light to reflect more gently, softening the overall atmosphere of a room.

Let these quiet colors inspire your home!

Beiges & Greiges

Balboa Mist – Benjamin Moore

Revere Pewter – Benjamin Moore

Accessible Beige – Sherwin Williams

Whites and Creams

Alabaster – Sherwin Williams

Simply White – Benjamin Moore

Swiss Coffee – Benjamin Moore

Blues and Greens

You might be scratching your head wondering how blues and greens can fall into the neutral color category. Here’s how: Many neutrals (beiges, grays, and whites) actually do have a blue or green undertone. And when paired with muted hues with a more saturated green or blue base, you can add depth and dimension to lift and complement your neutral decor. Plus, soft blues and greens are known for promoting peace and harmony, a key ingredient for creating a neutral space! These two colors actually fall into the Gray category, but as you can see each takes on an identifiable blue or green hue.

Cobblestone Path – Benjamin Moore

Gray Wisp – Benjamin Moore

Mantel Styling that Supports Stillness and Serenity

We wanted to create an example of a neutral

• Keep mantel decor minimal and meaningful—fewer items allow each piece to breathe.
• Choose natural textures (ceramic, wood, woven baskets) over bold or shiny finishes.
• Layer in soft greenery or dried botanicals for a soothing organic touch.
• Art or photography with gentle lines or calming themes reinforces stillness.
• Stick with tonal variations of white, tan, or warm wood to maintain a quiet palette.

Design Elements that Quiet a Space—Without Making It Boring

There are some common misconceptions about using neutrals in your home. One of the biggest is the assumption that using neutral colors only will lead to a boring outcome, leaving the home feeling bland and devoid personality. Unfortunately this can be exactly the outcome if the design remains one dimensional. A quality design will encompass mixed textures, consider scale & balance, and focus on the whole room, not just one section. So as you plan the design for your mantle, be mindful of the whole room. Here are some tips to

• Contrast texture instead of color: mixing wood with soft knits & smooth ceramics with woven baskets add dimension.
• Add in subtle color variation: off-whites, taupes, and soft gray-greens keep the palette interesting.
• Keep symmetry in mind: with centered decor, try offering gentle “end caps” in the form of similarly sized objects to keep a sense of balance.
• Integrate soft ambient lighting: using candles and low lighting instead of overhead lights.
• Bring in natural elements: stone, wicker, linen, and cotton echo the peace and presence of the outdoors.

Dimmable lighting provide a lot of versatility in – pro tip

Shop these products to help facilitate the simple tips above.

Peaceful Lighting

I really love these wall sconces! All of them are dimmable so they can create as much mood as you want. Regardless, they each provide ambient lighting and could be placed on either side of the mantle OR simply around the room to help create the right atmosphere. Keep your fixture selections to gold or black – these two options are simply timeless!

Don’t have the option for hardwiring your sconce?
Use rechargeable bulbs, designed to work
without the need to plug in or be hardwired!

Pro tip from the funcycled design team

Cozy, Calm, and Collected: Creating a Mood That Lasts

Two of the best benefits of using neutral design in our homes (as if tranquility and clarity are not enough!) are the longevity and timelessness that often accompany this type of design. Neutral spaces also embrace a practicality that can help keep us grounded. Having a space that needs minimal updating over time and remains a beautiful backdrop no matter the season generates a special kind of joy and appreciation for what we have. Try these practical tips as you plan your design:

• Aim for intentional styling: each piece should contribute to the feeling of calm, not compete for attention.
• Incorporate functional coziness—like a basket of rolled throws or books—so the space invites you in.
• Use scent and sound to support the mood: soft instrumental playlists, diffused lavender, or a crackling fire.
• Make this peaceful style a core part of your home, extending the same design language into adjoining rooms.

Final Thoughts

For additional Inspiration check out these other great blog posts to help inspire your journey for a peace-filled home!

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. 

Want to get more helpful design tips? Then 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. 

FunCycled offers 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, so I earn from any qualifying purchases associated with those links.

Making sure your mantle decor fits the style of your home is an absolute game changer and really elevates your home. This is true whether you have a wood burning fireplace, a gas fireplace, or even a faux fireplace set up somewhere in your home. The idea is cohesiveness. So, lake house or otherwise, let’s dive in – pun intended! ; )

Choosing Your Lake House Mantle Decor Style

So how should you style your mantle if you have a lake house or want to create the idea of one? The answer may seem obvious, but the truth is, if you have seen one lake house it DOES NOT mean that you have seen them all! Lake houses come in many forms, sizes, and styles: rustic, modern, vintage, or even coastal.

Guidance for Deciding Style

• Does your lake house have peaked ceilings and large windows? You may want to keep your design more simplistic and clean. Select more modern finishes.
• Is your lake house camped out in the middle of the woods, surrounded by tall pines? Creating a more rustic feel may be the right option for your lakeside retreat.
• If the word cozy describes the feel of your lake house, then adding vintage touches and retro fixtures are a good choice.

Essential Elements for a Lake House Mantle

Although the offerings of lake houses can span an array of styles, there are some common features that should accompany any of these styles and will accomplish the feel of a home situated by the lake. Here you are:

• Comfort & Relaxation – select furniture that invites people to kick their feet up and stay a while. Oversized cushions and deep seated sofas help send this message.
• Natural Materials – using linen and cotton are the best choices to select for textiles, but it is also important to incorporate wood and rattan around the room.
• Open Views – make sure you maximize the use of windows and views of the outdoors, especially if you have a the blessing of seeing the lake from inside the home. Light – filtering and sheer window treatments are perfect.
• Reflections of Water – using soft blue colors and placing mirrors around the room will mimic the idea of water and create a calm atmosphere for you and your guests.

Painted Crackle Vase – Wayfair

Candlestick Set – Wayfair

Coastal Lake House Mantle Decor Ideas

Here is the picture of the coastal lake house fireplace we generated through AI. What I love about creating an image with the help of AI is you end up with a concept. For designers, a concept is a jumping point, and that means it serves as a catalyst for creativity.

Because my goal was to create a sense of seaside charm to this mantle, I wanted to add some touches of the coast and keep the palette soft.

Coastal Items for Your Mantle

I love adding layers and texture right on a mantle – it creates the perfect vignette. Shells, birds of the water, coral, and, of course a beautiful picture of the water – all work together to create a peaceful mantle scape. Here are a few similar to our inspo design!

Water view Picture

Bird Decor Set

Pelican Statue

Coral Decor

Shell Vase

Starfish Figurine Set

Around the Room

WOVEN TEXTURES

Lighting is a great way to add texture and keep it a focal point in any room.

Tiered Chandelier

Rattan Woven Pendant

Woven baskets, ottomans, and storage containers are also great for lake house decorating

Seagrass Boxes

Natural Hemp Ottoman

DRIFTWOOD & CORAL

NEUTRAL BACKDROP

Using beige, creamy whites, and subtle greige hues will create the right background for the lovely blues, reflective of water to take center stage. Here are a couple of great paint colors for walls or even the mantle itself.

Balboa Mist – Benjamin Moore

Feather Down – Benjamin Moore

Simply White – Benjamin Moore

Final Tips for Styling Your Lake House Fireplace Mantle

#1 Remember, keep your design simple. A lake house should feel at ease and allow the water and view remain the focus.

#2 Use layers on the mantle to create special vignette’s and even incorporate family photos framed in natural wood to showcase memories made by the water.

#3 Avoid hanging a TV above the mantle. I know this is a popular place for many of our homes, but if you have a lakeside property, promoting peace and relaxation are key. I would suggest a mirror instead.

Need Some Help Putting Your Ideas Together? Schedule an Appointment with Us!

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!

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. 

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, 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.

Capturing a bold living room design (or really for any room in your home) does not happen without intention and planning. In order to effectively achieve the desired outcome for one homeowner, we decided that mixing design styles in her living room was the perfect way to go. The result, a striking mix of dramatic flair and timeless elegance. Since the classic tale of a makeover never grows old, this living room before and after stirs the heart with equal magic and charm! Let’s jump in!

Living Room Before & After

Quite often, the living room is the first room one enters after coming through the main entrance of a home. This can sometimes result in a sort of “catch-all” kind of feel and become the default function of the space. For this client, their living room was trying to serve multiple purposes and over time, it became a little disjointed. You can see in the before photos below, there were a few key challenges we wanted to address with our design plan: lack of a focal point and cohesive look, inadequate lighting, and a lot of open surfaces (all too eager to serve as clutter catchers).

LIVING ROOM BEFORE

LIVING ROOM AFTER

After assessing what would need to be addressed, we came up with a plan to overcome the challenges and create a cohesive living room design with a blend of gorgeous styles and function that works for the homeowners. Below, you will see how we tackled everything, but first how about this reveal!

#1 Lacking Focal Point – Dressing the main wall in a bold pattern draws your eye immediately to one major focal point. And by adding the dark & matching pieces of furniture adds weight to that end of the room, creating

#2 Poor Lighting – We added central, overhead lighting to the middle of the room. When light is cast from above and supported by table and floor lamps around the room, the illumination factor is amplified and creates balance.

I love this light! The sprawling design creates a major statement while adding so much light around the room. I have linked it up for you below:

#3 Open Surfaces – We chose glass fronted cabinets that could accommodate

Design Mixing That’s Bold

I love that this project serves as a great example of mixing design styles without the need to overdue one style over another. Plus, it truly is representative of working with a client’s personal taste and style while keeping a design cohesive and well planned.

Design Board for this living room

Mixing Styles Makes Good Design

Design Styles Used for this Living Room

Selecting the right balance and mix takes time, practice, and consideration. For this homeowner, we focused on capturing some drama of Art Deco and marrying it with the timeless ease of Mid Century Modern.

Art Deco Details

The bold sunburst motif and repeated geometric pattern mixed with curved lines reflect the flair and drama of art deco styling.

Mid Century Staples

Using clean, simple lines and natural elements such as jute & leather are consistent with the features of MCM design. It keeps everything so timeless.

Mixing Styles – Final Thoughts

Creating a style that is unique to you is part of the interior design process. If you would like some additional inspiration and want to see examples and tips for using different design styles, check out these other blog posts, linked below.

Mid Century Modern Basement Design

Design Trends to try in 2025

Mid Century Living Room Update

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.

Hi, friends!

Ahh…winter! For us in upstate New York, we are accustom to dark mornings and braving the cold winds. After all, it does come with the territory, right? But what might not be widely talked about or embraced is how to set a home to complement these shorter days and chillier nights. Today, I am sharing some helpful and creative tips for styling your home for winter. Let’s jump in!

1. Embrace Layered Textures

Winter is the perfect time to introduce a variety of textures to make your space feel warm and inviting. Think plush throws, soft velvet cushions, and woven rugs. Layering these textures creates a sense of coziness that’s perfect for chilly weather.

• Living Room: Add a chunky knit throw to your sofa, and layer it with velvet or faux fur pillows for added warmth and comfort. A shaggy rug underfoot will also help ground the space and make it feel extra cozy.
• Dining Room: Consider a textured table runner or cloth in rich fabrics like linen or velvet. Incorporating placemats made of natural materials like rattan or woven fibers can also introduce warmth and texture to your winter dining experience.

Pillow Cover – Amazon

Chenille Cable Throw – Amazon

2. Warm Up with a Color Palette of Earthy Tones and Neutrals

For winter, soft, earthy tones create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere that’s both calming and cozy. Stick to a color palette that includes warm neutrals like beige, taupe, and soft gray, alongside deep, rich colors like forest green, navy, or burgundy.

• Living Room: If your walls are already neutral, switch up the look by adding accent colors in the form of pillows, throws, and curtains. Opt for deep jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and amethyst for a touch of seasonal elegance.
• Dining Room: For a festive touch, consider incorporating gold, bronze, or brass accents in your tableware or light fixtures. These metallics add a sophisticated sparkle to the room without feeling too overpowering.

Set of Bowls – Amazon

Woven Table Runner – Amazon

https://amzn.to/4aewnUmt – Amazon

3. Create a Warm Focal Point with a Fireplace

A fireplace, real or otherwise, can be the heart of your living room during the colder months. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, make it a focal point of your winter decor.

Photo Sourced from The Lily Pad Cottage

Photo Sourced from Hello Hayley Home Decor Blog

• Living Room: Use this area to showcase cozy winter elements, such as a collection of candles in varying heights, a stack of firewood, or a favorite poem or verse above the mantel. If you don’t have a real fire, electric fireplaces or even just a beautiful arrangement of candles can provide that same inviting warmth.
• Dining Room: If your dining area is near a fireplace, ensure the seating arrangement maximizes the ambiance. You could also add candles to the dining table or surrounding shelves to give the space a warm, inviting glow.

4. Incorporate Seasonal Greenery and Natural Elements

Winter is a wonderful time to bring nature indoors, whether it’s through greenery or natural materials. Adding a touch of winter flora can help your space feel fresh and seasonal.

• Living Room: Consider using evergreen branches, pinecones, or holly in vases or bowls. A simple vase of winterberry branches or a sprig of mistletoe can evoke the holiday season. Don’t forget about winter plants like poinsettias or an indoor pine tree for added festive cheer.
• Dining Room: A centerpiece made of natural elements such as birch logs, pinecones, and evergreen boughs is an elegant and low-maintenance way to bring winter beauty to your table. You could also incorporate small pots of herbs like rosemary, which not only add a fragrant touch but also stay vibrant through the season.

Branches

Rustic Finials – Amazon

Rustic Vase – Amazon

5. Bring in Winter-Inspired Artwork and Decor

Adding seasonal artwork or decor pieces is a simple way to change the vibe of your space without committing to major design changes.

• Living Room: Consider switching out any summery or neutral artwork for pieces that evoke the winter months. Landscapes featuring snow-covered trees or even abstract designs in deep blues and grays can set the perfect mood.
• Dining Room: Swap out your everyday art pieces for winter-inspired pieces, such as a mirror with a beaded frame. This will also help reflect light which we want to maximize during these winter months!

Winter Photo Collection – Amazon

Mirror – Amazon

I love sharing design ideas with you and hope that you feel more inspired for creating additional warmth and joy into your home this winter! With a little creativity and some helpful tips, your home will be ready to embrace the beauty of winter while keeping you and your guests comfortable and cozy!

Not sure how to give your home a new look?

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.

FacebookTwitterPinterestShare

Hi Friends!

I hope you are having a good start to your week! Every Sunday, I am reminded to be thankful for whatever might lie ahead for the coming week, and here we are on a Tuesday, already part way through, and it is joyous!

Also, over the weekend, we celebrated our son’s 16th birthday! Can you believe it?! I took this picture of him when we were in Ireland, and I just love it!

In this week’s Tuesday’s Treasure, I want to share with you a reminder for all of us, and it comes by way of a piece of furniture. If you aren’t familiar with the term, trousseau, get ready to learn a few things while being reminded to pay attention to the special details that bring us hope every day!

If you are having trouble viewing the images, click here.

The term trousseau is derived from the French verb, trousser, which means “to truss” or “to tuck” (Merriam-Webster). When we hear the word trousseau, a natural association is to think of a wedding or bride, and rightfully so. A trousseau is a large chest that is used to house keepsakes and important items. In previous generations, a trousseau often served as a way for a woman to store and save up special items and valuables for the day when she would marry. A more modern term we may be familiar with is the word hope chest (or okay two words!) Although the word hope chest finds its origination dating back to the 15th Century in Italy, it was introduced to the US during the 20th century (Brides online article). In turn, a hope chest functions exactly as a trousseau, and these terms are relatively interchangeable. In today’s furniture flip, this hope chest was given new life, to bring some hope into someone’s home and life!

True to it’s character, this chest is large, and it is designed to hold and keep things in safe keeping (hint this is the secret of the cedar lining used in closets, chests, drawers, etc. ) Take a look at the before photo. Does not exactly stir up the kind of sentiment you would think of given its history, but there is always hope, right?

And here is the after photo! So different, right?

The chest is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (a FunCylced go-to color!), and the top remains refinished and stained in a warm medium brown tone, Jacobean. The bird and branches are hand painted, and we added the black cup handles on the drawers to provide a nice contrast. Here’s a peek at some of the elements that make this chest both practical and beautiful. Gorgeous solid wood, deep drawer for additional storage and organization, and cedar lined. This chest is made by the Lane Furniture Company, meaning it was proudly made in the USA!

This beautiful chest has already been sold, and we know it is bringing great hope and joy to its new owners!

If you have a chest (or old piece of furniture) and would like it to have new life again, reach out to us on our Contact Us page. Or you can always browse our furniture inventory, by visiting our shop page.

Want some helpful tips on how to complete your own furniture flip, check out this how-to blog: HOW TO PAINT FURNITURE LIKE A PRO!

THANK YOU TO THE CAPITAL REGION CHAMBER

I also want to give a big shout out to the Capital Region Chamber for highlighting us this past week and sharing the FunCycled story and our dedication to the Capital District. As a proud member of the Chamber, I am honored and pleased to share the full story highlight with you! You can read it here.

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. 

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, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. 

Happy FunCycling Friends,

Sarah ; )

Hi Friends!

If you follow us on social media, you probably know that FunCycled has been generating some really great furniture flips recently, and the best part…EVERYTHING you see here is IN STOCK!! But what you might not know is that furniture flipping is how FunCycled first began!! Join me down memory lane and also to get a full overview of our current inventory, plus our latest Featured Furniture Collection.

If you are having trouble viewing images, click here.

Memory Lane

In 2012, my husband John and I saw an opportunity to share our passion and know how for furniture flipping! I have always been creative, and I found this creativity to really take flight when I found moments to restore something broken or unused by refreshing it, repurposing it, and transforming into a new treasure! Check out some pics from back in the day!

Current Pieces

From this painted and stained buffet to vintage storage trunks (great for coffee tables or toy corralling!) to end tables and night stands, FunCycled has some amazing pieces in our inventory! Take a look! Be sure to click on each image to get full details. BTW, the cutie black end stand with gold legs is a set of two! Can you stand it?!

If you see a treasure that would be perfect for your space, reach out to me on our Contact Us page or you can email me directly and let me know what piece you would like!

Featured Collection

This collection comes with a larger piece which could be used as a dresser or even a buffet or sideboard as well as two side tables for night stands or even end tables for a living room! Also check out that before photo!

Check out some close ups and details of this collection! The double stripe and black and gold hardware add a touch of flair and I can’t get over how much I love the retractable doors the open to additional storage! LOVE!!

Each piece has been painted in Benjamin Moore’s Steam and stained with a mix of gray and brown stains that I had on hand–sometimes that just the perfect shade!

Again, if you see a piece (or more!) that you would like for your home, reach out to me on our Contact Us page.

Want some helpful tips on how to complete your own furniture flip, check out this how-to blog: HOW TO PAINT FURNITURE LIKE A PRO!

DON’T FORGET

FUNCYCLED IS SPONSORING OUR UPCYCLING CONTEST! (Click the image below for more details.)

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. 

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, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. 

Happy FunCycling Friends,

Sarah ; )

Hi Friends!

Happy first day of Spring! Sometimes we are tempted to think it will never come, especially after a cold and snow-filled Winter (which we have not had), but here it is! Spring has arrived!

In today’s Tuesday’s Treasure, I want to share some inspiration for all of us as we transition from Winter to Spring.

If you are having trouble viewing images, click here.

Colors for Spring

At this point in the year, most of us are ready for something a little brighter in our homes. Check out these Spring inspired pieces of furniture we have been able to complete over the years!

Choosing the Right Color

With so many choices, it can be hard to know the how to make the right selection. To add a touch of Spring, I suggest choosing colors that are light and bright and remind you of what is happening outside as Spring arrives. Because the full bloom of colors doesn’t typically arrive until May and June in Upstate New York, I like to introduce greens and blues along with shades of white and gray. But you can also select other pastel colors to add a touch of color while still feeling bright and airy! Here are a few tips for making the selection for you:

• Keep in mind the style of the piece of furniture and what type of hardware it has or will have if you plan to change it.
• Consider what other colors you have in your space. Remember, they don’t have to be an exact match, but they should coordinate.
• If this is a new color you would like to introduce to your home, make sure to add a few other touches of that same color around the room.
• Take note of a bigger vision you have for the space, keeping in mind this might be a first step toward that vision!

Find these inspirational color pallets for your next project!

(photos credit to M4 Designs FL care of Etsy)

Ways to Style

This is where you get to have a lot of fun! A “go to” item for me is styling with books! They add height, texture, and interest. Or grab a vase or pretty glass bottle in a bright or complementary color and add fresh greens. Depending upon your style and what you love, use the surface to display a special heirloom or antique, like this vintage camera atop the beautiful teal and gray-washed credenza.

If you want to buy one of our repurposed pieces of furniture, visit our Shop page.

If you have a piece in your home and you want it custom painted, we can help! We work with clients all the time to bring new life to their old, tired pieces of furniture. Reach out to me on our Contact Us page.

To learn more about custom painting and tips to do the job right, visit our Custom Furniture Painting page.

REMEMBER, FUNCYCLED IS SPONSORING OUR UPCYCLING CONTEST! (Click the image below for more details.)

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. 

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, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. 

Happy FunCycling Friends,

Sarah ; )

Hi Friends!

I hope you had a nice weekend! It was a rough one here with a surprise root canal on Friday morning and the flu the next day. The kids and I are hacking our days away on the couch. Good thing I can type and not talk to share this week’s makeover with you.

It’s been a bit since I’ve shared a custom order with you. This coffee table and end stand set was already owned by one of our clients. Here’s what they looked like before:

We painted this set with Benjamin Moore Black and sprayed it with a protective clear coat.

If you want to see how we paint furniture, check out our How to Paint Furniture post.

Ready for the afters:

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. 

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, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. 

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)

Hi Friends!

How are you? I hope you’re all enjoyed the last few weeks of fall in upstate!

Remember the lake house I’ve been working on designing for the last 2 years? Well, today is the day that I get to share the living room makeover. 

Here it is before:

Before I show you the after photos, I wanted to talk about a couple of my favorite things from the design. First, look up! Painting the ceilings white and adding beams made the biggest transformation in this space. Also, I don’t have a before picture but the stair area was completely sheet rocked before. So we talked through opening it up and making the stairs a focal point while also allowing company to see from the front door right out to the lake when they walk in! It made the whole first floor feel modern and open.

Next look down, anchoring the room with a large rug also brought the space together. The coffee table was my favorite furniture piece in this room (with the striped chair being a very close second). I just loved the turned legs. So check that out as you scroll down, too!

Let me know your favorite part of the design in the comments below! I love hearing from you!

I’m still hoping that my clients will add a beam to the fireplace, but other than that this room is all done! Now they can spend time with their family and friends while enjoying the view from inside their home during the colder months. 💕

Would you like help redesigning your home? Let me help you with the design! Check out more details about our Interior Design Services. 

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. 

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, again, for working with us and for taking the time to spread the word about what we do. 

Happy FunCycling Friends,
Sarah ;)