eBay’s design expert, Karl Lohnes, offered to share a few ideas on how to be eco-chic while saving money at the same time. Who knew reducing, reusing, and recycling could be tenets of home decor? Here are Karl’s tips for updating your space, with eBay’s help:
• Think about reusing an item for something that it wasn’t originally intended for. For example, an antique ice bucket can double as a chic counter-top compost container.
• Reduce waste by looking for ways to update or change a look rather than starting over from scratch. Adding colour to an indoor or outdoor table setting doesn’t mean that you have to throw away that plain white china. Simply look for ways to add colour with different accessories such as coloured drinking glasses or patterned cloth napkins.
• Save money and energy by purchasing lighting that requires little or no installation. Beautiful solar lanterns add light and a touch of whimsy to any patio or garden and don’t require any wiring.
• When shopping for specialty items, look for items that have multiple functions. When not serving brunch, use small egg cups to hold spreads and sides or fill them with bite-size snacks.
• Reuse unique packaging. Special-edition packaging and containers offer inexpensive and fun ways to add some unique elements to your dinner table. Visit eBay.ca to find old branded champagne buckets that can be used to hold serving utensils or even serve as a vase for a bouquet of flowers.
The key to an eco-chic makeover, according to Karl, is keeping it simple. He recommends using eBay.ca because it’s easy to find decor items that match any budget and style. Window shop by browsing through a range of categories – such Antiques and Home and Garden – or search for a specific item by keyword.
How do you refresh your decor? Is it total rehaul or gradual evolution?
