You've heard the phrase, “When one door closes, another one opens”. What if we tweaked it a bit to: 'When one door or window closes....it's time to re-purpose!” There is so much charm in the patina of an old door or window. Keep your eye out at yard-sales, flea markets and thrift stores to score a great find. Look for wood that is still solid, don't worry too much about peeling paint, that can lend some character to the piece or be repainted. We recommend asking the age of the door or window, items before 1978 may contain lead paint, which can be hazardous. If you proceed, wear goggles and gloves if sanding and consider using the item more as artwork that won't be handled. We choose several DIY projects.....a few simple ones and several that might take an afternoon to complete. Be inspired by looking at things in a new light.
1. Just a few modifications will give you a sweet little seat to put on your boots and store away your kids gloves and hats. Choose a solid, not hollow, door for this project. Sand and paint the door a cheery color or allow the older paint to stay. You can take measurements to add a bench or small shelf. Some decorative hooks for purses, coats and scarfs complete the look.
Entryway Bench
2. Look for a slender door or even an old cabinet door for this project. Sand, stain and paint as you choose to match your décor. A trip to the hardware store can provide you with legs that can be simply attached with mounting hardware and a few tools. If the door has a key hole or interesting knob, leave it on for some pizzazz.
Coffee Table
3. A paneled door works best for this design. The panels are cut out and attached to the back of the door to make the shelves. Hinges and hardware can be left on for added appeal. When sanded and painted this idea would work well in a child's room or library.
Shelf Unit
4. An older window frame can be used in lots of clever ways throughout the house. If you can find an old 6 paned window simply paint with chalkboard paint and utilize it as a weekly memo board or menu. A large four pane window can show off family pictures or beautiful prints from an antique book. In this example, sheet music and birds combine for a lovely look. Even finding a window frame with no glass can be used as a unique frame for artwork.
Many of these projects and other DIY inspiration can be found on Pinterest and the internet. We hope you can always look at something in a new light and transform it into something functional.