New Uses for a Broken Shelf

Hey guys, thanks for dropping by today!

You may have heard the line, "One person's trash is another person's treasure." Sometimes you may have to really look at the trash pile to find that treasure.   

For me, the treasure here is the wooden shelf. It's clearly broken, the shelves missing. 

But if you pull it aside, can you see its potential? It's a free-standing ladder!

With some images from Pinterest, here's how I would transform it from "blah to TADA!":

 

via awedbymonica

I would turn it into a leaning shelf to keep throws and blankets tidy.

via urban outfitters

I can use it to display accessories like hats, bags, and scarves.

via Pinterest

I can mount it on the kitchen wall and use it to hang not-too-heavy pots, pans and other cooking utensils.

via Pinterest

I can use it to dry herbs and flowers.

via Ikea

Or hang some small potted plants using hooks.

via Pinterest

By bolting it to the ceiling, it gives a room character and an additional place to hang macrame planters.

via Pinterest

How about a greenery chandelier in the bathroom?

via Pinterest

For the outdoors, I'm totally loving this DIY light fixture.

How about this idea that I sketched out: a lighting and storage solution that's perfect for a reading nook. The top rung of the ladder is outfitted with a plug-in overhead light with Edison bulb. One rung is transformed into a shelf for paperbacks and a small plant. Another rung is a place to hang a favorite throw. Just add a chair and it's ready for cozy afternoons and evenings...TADA!

Before you get rid of your furniture, find a few ways to turn them from "blah to TADA!" But if you really must, please do so responsibly. To keep them out of the landfill and help those in need, donate them to charity: Salvation Army, Goodwill, Housing Works, Habitat for Humanity ReStore or at a thrift shop in your town. Consider selling them on Craigslist, Facebook Market Place or share on a Buy Nothing group.

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