8 Brilliant And Easy Ways To Shop Your House

Shop your home to transform your spaces with decor you already own. Here are 8 brilliant, easy, creative, and clever ways to think outside the box to create a home that is not only attractive and comfortable but uniquely your own!

Did you know you have a virtual interior design store right at your fingertips every single day? That’s right, it’s your home! Your home is filled with hidden treasures just waiting to be rediscovered and used in fresh, creative ways.

Decorating can be expensive, but the good news is that you don’t need to break the bank to breathe new life into a space. Shopping your house is an easy, budget-friendly way to revive your rooms and make your home feel fresh and new. With a little creativity, you can mix, match, and repurpose items you already own to create beautiful, personalized decor.

Take a moment to look around your home with fresh eyes. That vase tucked away in a cabinet could be the star of your coffee table. Those picture frames collecting dust in storage might make a stunning gallery wall. Even something as simple as rearranging your furniture can completely transform a room. The possibilities are endless when you approach your home like a treasure hunt.

So, grab a notepad, channel your inner decorator, and let’s shop your house! I’ll share eight brilliant ways to get started and show you how to create magic with what you already have.

Here are some of my very favorite ways to shop your house for decor… 

Shop Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is more than just a space for cooking; it’s a hidden treasure trove of decor possibilities! From cake plates to serving platters, there’s so much potential to create unique and stunning displays throughout your home.

One of my favorite items in the kitchen that I use to decorate other rooms is my pedestal cake plates. They make such a pretty base for all kinds of decor. Cake plates are one of my biggest weaknesses, and for good reason. They’re both functional and beautiful.

Think beyond just dishes and platters. Your kitchen is full of items that can be repurposed in creative and unexpected ways.

Here are some brilliant ideas for shopping your kitchen:

• Use Cake Plates As Risers
  • Perfect for displaying candles, plants, or even creating a layered centerpiece.
  • Stack multiple plates to add height and drama to your decor.
• Stack Cups or Bowls in a Vignette
  • Add charm to a bookshelf, side table, or entryway with a sweet vignette of stacked cups or bowls.
  • Use bowls to introduce pops of color or interesting patterns to your decor.
• Repurpose Serving Platters as Trays
  • Use platters to corral remote controls and candles on a coffee table.
  • Corral your makeup and jewelry on a bedroom dresser.
• Small Bowls for Organization
  • Perfect for keeping keys, loose change, or small trinkets organized.
  • Add a decorative touch to a desk or nightstand.
• Dishes as Wall Art
  • Hang a collection of mismatched plates for a unique gallery wall.
  • Arrange them in a symmetrical pattern for a polished, elegant look.
• Stack Dishes as Decor Risers
  • Use stacked plates to elevate smaller items like accent decor, plants, or candles.
  • Pair dishes with other textures, such as wood or metal, for a layered effect.
• Glass Jars and Containers
  • Fill glass jars with seasonal decor like pinecones, ornaments, or flowers.
  • Use them as statement pieces on a mantel or shelf.
• Cutting Boards as Backdrops
  • Prop a cutting board against a wall to add warmth and texture to a vignette.
  • Layer smaller boards in front of larger ones for added depth.

Your kitchen holds endless opportunities for creativity. With a little imagination, you can transform everyday items into beautiful decor that makes your home feel fresh and inviting. Start exploring your cabinets and drawers. You might be surprised by what you find!

Bring The Outdoors Inside

Nature offers some of the most beautiful and budget-friendly decor you can find. If you have a few flowers or greenery around your home, you’ve already got one of the best ways to shop your house. Just step outside and take advantage of what your yard or garden has to offer.

The blooms in the arrangement above came from a few ranunculus plants I planted last spring. You don’t need tons of flowers to make a statement—a few blooms can go a long way. Fresh clippings can add life, color, and charm to any room.

Here are some brilliant ways to bring the outside indoors:

• Clip Blooms from Outdoor Plants
  • Use flowers from pots, flowering trees, or shrubs to create simple and stunning arrangements.
  • Arrange them in a small vase for a bedside table or bathroom counter.
• Use Greenery for Depth and Texture
  • Add clippings of greenery to a tablescape for an effortless, fresh look.
  • Use branches or leaves in tall vases to make an eye-catching statement.
• Create Miniature Arrangements
  • Use small jars or bottles to hold just a few stems for a minimalist display.
  • Group several mini arrangements together for more impact.
• Incorporate Seasonal Elements
  • Add sprigs of evergreen or holly during the holidays for a festive touch.
  • Use dried grasses or seed pods in the fall to create a natural, rustic decor.
• Mix Real and Faux Greenery
  • Combine real clippings with faux stems for a fuller, longer-lasting arrangement.
  • Use real elements like eucalyptus to enhance the scent of your space.
• Don’t Overlook Small Clippings
  • Even a single leaf or sprig can add charm to a vignette.
  • Use small greenery pieces to decorate place settings or gift packages.

You don’t need a big garden to enjoy the beauty of nature in your home. A few thoughtful clippings can make a big decor difference and bring a touch of the outdoors inside.

Adding Non-Traditional Furniture To A Room

Using furniture in unconventional ways is a smart and stylish way to refresh your home. Moving pieces out of their usual spaces can add character to a room and make it feel more personal. Plus, rethinking how you use furniture can solve storage challenges while giving your home a fresh and interesting vibe.

Dressers, buffets, and chests are great examples of how versatile furniture can be. A dresser, for instance, works beautifully as a sideboard in the dining room, offering plenty of storage and a polished look. Originally a dining room buffet, the white buffet in the image above became an anchor piece in the living room, adding both charm and functionality.

And a living room end table became a pretty bedside table in the guest room. It’s all about exploring new possibilities with the furniture you already have.

Here are some interesting and attractive ways to incorporate non-traditional furniture into your home:

• Repurpose Bedroom Dressers
  • Transform a long dresser into a dining room sideboard for storing linens, dishes, and serving ware.
  • Use a dresser in an entryway to organize everyday essentials like keys, mail, and outerwear.
• Reimagine Armoires
  • Convert an armoire into a dining room buffet with ample storage for serving pieces and decor.
  • Use an armoire as a bar cabinet or even a compact home office.
• Utilize Chests Creatively
  • Position a chest at the end of a sofa as a unique coffee table with built-in storage.
  • Use a chest as a side table to add visual interest and practicality.
• Incorporate Dining Furniture in Bedrooms
  • Use a buffet as a chic and functional bedside table.
  • Repurpose a dining table as a spacious desk or craft station in a guest room.
  • Use a dining room chair as an accent chair in a bedroom.
• Rethink Benches
  • Place a dining bench at the foot of a bed for a streamlined seating option.
  • Use a bench in a bathroom for storing towels or as a display for toiletries.
• Adapt Outdoor Furniture for Indoor Use
  • Bring an outdoor bench into an entryway for a welcoming look.
  • Use outdoor side tables in casual living areas or sunrooms.

By thinking outside of the box, you can design spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional.

Paint Or Refinish

Giving your furniture or decor a fresh coat of paint or a brand-new finish is one of the easiest ways to completely transform its look and feel. Think of a paintbrush or a can of spray paint as a decorator’s magic wand! A little paint or refinishing can go a long way in making them work beautifully in your space.

I spray-painted a bright yellow (horrible) garden stool with a handsome gunmetal color, and it became a drink table next to a chair in our sunroom.

If you have a piece that feels tired or out of place, think about how a simple change in color or finish could breathe new life into it. For larger furniture, consider painting it to blend seamlessly with your decor or to serve as a statement piece in the room. For smaller items like picture frames or candlesticks, spray paint is a quick and easy way to create a cohesive look.

Here are some ideas for painting and refinishing your items:

• Refresh Furniture with Paint
  • Repaint dressers or chests to fit seamlessly into a new room.
  • Use chalk paint for a soft, matte finish with vintage appeal.
• Refinish Worn Surfaces
  • Sand and stain scratched tables or chairs to restore their original beauty.
  • Apply a protective sealant to enhance durability and shine.
• Spray Paint Accents
  • Update picture frames, vases, or candlesticks to complement your decor.
  • Experiment with metallic finishes for a touch of elegance.
• Customize Hardware
  • Replace or paint knobs and drawer pulls for an instant update.
  • Coordinate hardware colors with the overall room design.

By updating and refining your furniture and decor, you can achieve a cohesive, polished look that reflects your personal style. This simple approach allows you to make the most of what you already own while giving your home a refreshed and inviting feel.

Move Furnishings From One Room To Another

Sometimes, the simplest way to refresh your home is to rethink where your furniture lives, and is my favorite way to shop our house! Moving a piece from one room to another can completely change its purpose and give the furniture and the space a new look. A bench from our master bedroom bedroom became interesting seating at the round dining room table. Or a console table from the hallway could work beautifully as a desk in your home office.

This approach not only saves money but also helps you see your furniture in a new light. It’s all about experimenting and finding creative ways to make your existing pieces work harder for you. And the best part? You can try as many arrangements as you like until you find the one that feels just right.

Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Reimagine Accent Chairs
  • Move a bedroom chair to your living room for extra seating.
  • Place a dining chair in a corner with a small table to create a mini workspace.
• Repurpose Console Tables
  • Use a console table from your entryway as a desk or vanity.
  • Position one behind a sofa for a stylish and functional display space.
• Relocate Side Tables
  • Move side tables to different rooms for variety and function.
  • Pair them together as a substitute for a coffee table in smaller spaces.
• Try Different Spots for Bookshelves
  • Bring a bookshelf from a study into a dining room to display dishware or decor.
  • Use a small bookshelf in a bathroom to store towels and toiletries.
• Experiment with Rugs
  • Swap rugs between rooms to change the feel of each space.
  • Layer smaller rugs on top of larger ones for added texture and interest.
• Mix and Match Dining Furniture
  • Use dining chairs in a bedroom for an eclectic touch.
  • Repurpose a dining table as a crafting or project space in another room.

Pillows Are A Room’s Jewelry

 One of the quickest and most effective ways to refresh a room is by swapping and changing pillows. Whether you’re pulling from your stash of pillows or rotating seasonal pillow covers, this simple change can have a big impact. Pillows are incredibly versatile and can easily transition between rooms or styles, making them one of the best tools for updating your decor.

Using pillows to reflect the season at hand is also a great way to keep your home feeling fresh and inviting. Lighter fabrics are perfect for spring and summer, while rich textures and warm tones bring a cozy look to fall and winter. By simply swapping covers or rearranging pillows, you can create a whole new look without purchasing anything new.

The pom pom pillow has been used in every room in our home and patio! It’s an indoor/outdoor pillow I’ve had for over 15 years. I think it looks as good as the day I bought it.

Here are some ideas for making the most of your pillows:

• Rotate Pillows Between Rooms
  • Move decorative pillows from the bedroom to the living room for a fresh perspective.
  • Use outdoor pillows indoors during cooler months for added texture and durability.
• Switch Covers for a Seasonal Refresh
  • Swap out lightweight linen covers for plush velvet or faux fur in the winter.
  • Use floral or pastel patterns in the spring to brighten up your space.
• Layer Pillows for Depth
  • Mix and match sizes, shapes, and textures to create a designer look.
  • Pair patterned pillows with solid ones for a balanced arrangement.
• Play with Color
  • Use pillows to introduce pops of color that complement your overall decor.
  • Experiment with monochromatic schemes for a sleek, cohesive appearance.
• Experiment with Placement
  • Arrange pillows asymmetrically on a sofa for a modern, casual look.
  • Stack pillows on a bed or bench to create a welcoming and cozy aesthetic.
• Mix Patterns and Textures
  • Combine stripes, florals, and solids for a curated yet eclectic feel.
  • Pair smooth fabrics with chunky knits or faux fur for added texture and interest.

Swapping and changing pillows is an easy, budget-friendly way to transform a room. With a little creativity, you can give your home a fresh, new look every season!

Items That Reflect The Season

Before you rush out to buy new seasonal decor, take time to peruse what you already own. Heading down to the basement or up to the attic to sift through your seasonal decor stash can be a rewarding experience. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also allows you to rediscover pieces you may have forgotten about. Items like wreaths, garlands, or even small accent pieces can often be repurposed or updated to work beautifully in your current decor.

I’ve used these large fall leaf stems in many rooms and countless ways throughout our home every autumn for the past eight years. Since the fall I first brought them home, they’ve been a staple in my seasonal decor. While they were a bit of a splurge initially, their versatility and longevity have made them an incredible bargain!

During the summer, I like to use my straw totes and favorite hat as decor that gives a nod to the season. Finding items like this to use as seasonal decor creates a personal and storied look to your home.

Reusing seasonal decor also brings a sense of continuity to your home. Familiar items can evoke cherished memories and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Plus, incorporating pieces you already have reduces waste and helps you make the most of what you own. You can easily refresh your home for the season by thoughtfully selecting and using what you already have.

Here are some ideas for where to add seasonal decor:

• Bookshelves: Add small accents like figurines, garlands, or seasonal signs.
• Entryway Tables: Create a seasonal vignette to greet guests.
• Mantels: Use garlands, candles, and themed decor to create a focal point.
• Dining Tables: Add a seasonal centerpiece or swap out table linens.
• Kitchen Counters: Display seasonal mugs, dish towels, or small arrangements.
• Bathrooms: Incorporate seasonal hand towels, candles, or small decorative touches.
• Bedrooms: Swap out throw pillows or add a seasonal blanket to the bed.
• Outdoor Spaces: Update your porch or patio with seasonal wreaths, planters, or cushions.

Using Books You Already Have

Books are more than something to read. They can also be a versatile and stylish element in your home decor. Books bring personality and charm to any space, whether stacked on a coffee table, displayed on a shelf, or used as a base to elevate other decor. They add texture, color, and a sense of story to your home, reflecting your interests and tastes.

Using books you already have is an easy, budget-friendly way to enhance your decor. Vintage books, colorful covers, or even a collection of neutral tones can make a statement when styled thoughtfully. Plus, books are incredibly functional. They can be used to add height, anchor a vignette, or create symmetry. By rethinking how you display and arrange them, books can become one of the most creative tools in your decorating arsenal!

• Stack Books as a Base
  • Use them to elevate vases, candles, or other decor for added height.
  • Arrange stacks in varying sizes to create visual interest in displays.
• Color-Code Your Shelves
  • Arrange books by color to create a visually cohesive and organized look.
  • Create a monochromatic scheme with books of the same color family for a sophisticated feel.
• Mix Decorative Objects
  • Combine books with framed photos, small sculptures, or plants on a bookshelf.
  • Add greenery like potted plants or faux succulents for a fresh touch.
• Use Books on Coffee Tables
  • Create stacks of coffee table books to add interest and personality to your living room.
  • Layer a large-format art or photography book under a smaller decorative object.
• Incorporate Books into Vignettes
  • Layer books into displays on mantels, entryway tables, or desks.
  • Add books to bedside tables alongside a small lamp and an alarm clock.
• Turn Books Backwards
  • For a neutral aesthetic, display books with the pages facing out instead of the spines.
  • Use books with neutral-colored pages to create a minimalist display.
• Group Books by Theme
  • Display cookbooks in the kitchen, art books in the living room, or travel books in a guest room.
  • Place travel books in a guest room to inspire your visitors.
• Highlight Vintage Finds
  • Show off older books with worn covers for a touch of charm and history.
  • Tie a bundle of vintage books together with twine or ribbon for a rustic look.
• Use Open Books
  • Display an open book on a stand or table to highlight a beautiful illustration or meaningful passage.
  • Place an open book on a coffee table to feature stunning illustrations or photography.

If you like books to look cohesive, think about covering them with burlap. They look amazing when used as part of your home decor and can still be read. How To Cover Books With Burlap is an easy and addictive DIY.

You might also like to see Decorating With Books You Already Have And Love.

Books are both functional and decorative, making them an excellent choice for enhancing your home’s style while reflecting your personality.

Shopping your house is one of the easiest and most creative ways to refresh your home without spending a dime. You can transform your spaces in meaningful and unexpected ways by reimagining how you use what you already have. Not only does this approach save money, but it also allows you to create a home that feels uniquely yours. And isn’t that what decorating is all about?

Take a fresh look around your home and let your imagination guide you. With a little effort and creativity, you’ll be amazed at how the things you already own can come together to breathe new life into your house and make it your home.

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Happy Decorating!