Transforming Your Space: Upcycling Furniture and Embracing the Double Drenching Trend

As autumn paints the world in golden hues, it’s an ideal time to refresh your home and embrace the cozy vibes that come with the season. Whether you are inspired to upcycle your old furniture or are eager to follow the latest double drenching trend, now’s the time to dive into those home improvement projects. However, a common drawback of redecorating, especially painting, is the lingering chemical smell it creates. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies and alternatives, you can effectively mitigate those unpleasant odors.

Upcycling Furniture: Sustainability Meets Style

Upcycling has become a favored approach for those looking to embellish their homes sustainably. Instead of discarding old furniture, consider ways to rejuvenate and repurpose it. Here are some ideas to inspire your upcycling journey:

• Paint a Fresh Coat: A simple paint job can transform a tired dresser into a modern statement piece. Choose a color that complements your decor, and watch it come alive.

• Add New Hardware: Swapping out old knobs and handles can give furniture a fresh appearance without requiring a complete overhaul.

• Reupholster: If you have an old chair lying around, consider reupholstering it with a vibrant fabric that suits your style.

• Mix and Match: Combine different elements from various pieces to create a unique formation that tells your style story.

Embracing the Double Drenching Trend

Double drenching is about layering two complementary colors on your walls to add depth and visual interest. This sophisticated approach can give your room a dynamic look, making it an exciting avenue to explore during fall redecorating.

For those ready to embrace double drenching, consider the following techniques:

• Complementary Colors: Select colors that harmonize well together, such as a deep blue paired with a soft mint green. The contrast can create a striking yet cohesive look.

• Texture Play: Incorporate textured finishes on one section of the wall for added dimension. This can be achieved with different painting techniques or even wallpaper.

• Focus on One Wall: You don’t have to commit to the entire room; focusing on one accent wall can create a stunning impact without overwhelming the space.

Combatting Paint Odor: Natural Remedies

While refreshing your space boosts your mood, the unbearable scent from paint can ruin the experience. Jimmy Englezos from Ronseal provides insightful tips on natural remedies to help eliminate that pesky paint smell:

1. Baking Soda

An invaluable item in your kitchen, baking soda, will absorb odors effortlessly. Place several tablespoons in bowls throughout the room overnight to naturally absorb odors. You can even sprinkle some on carpets to freshen up soft furnishings.

2. Activated Charcoal

This odor-absorbing powerhouse can be found easily in stores. Set small bowls of activated charcoal around the space to draw out that stubborn paint smell.

3. Lemon Juice

Fresh and invigorating, lemon juice is an excellent odor neutralizer. Combine water with lemon slices and leave it to permeate the air. The refreshing citrus scent will leave your space smelling clean.

4. Sliced Onions

This unconventional but effective method can sometimes transform a particularly foul odor into a more manageable scent. Slice a few onions and place them in bowls around the room; they can help absorb the paint smell quickly.

5. Coffee Grounds

Known for their rich aroma, used coffee grounds can also absorb malodorous fumes. Place them in bowls around the room for an effective and pleasant-smelling solution.

Prepping Before You Paint: Best Practices

To ensure that your painting project is a success with minimal smell disruption, keep these practices in mind:

1. Ventilate the Space

Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, making sure fumes escape. Using an electric fan to create airflow can also help push the odors outside.

2. Control the Temperature

Ensure a comfortable temperature in the room while painting. Keeping it cool helps reduce the lingering scent, but remember to avoid temperatures below 10°C as it can affect the paint’s consistency.

3. Utilize a Dehumidifier

Paint release strong odors during application especially in humid conditions. Use a dehumidifier prior to painting to lower humidity levels to an optimal 40-50%.

Conclusion

This autumn, as you embark on your journey to revamp your space with upcycled furniture and the stunning double drenching trend, don’t let unpleasant paint odors detract from your excitement. Implement natural remedies and follow best practices to create a space that feels fresh and inviting, allowing you to fully embrace the beauty of the season in your beautifully transformed home. Get ready to cozy up and enjoy the fruits of your labor!