We get it, it’s hard to part with things you once loved. Sometimes items simply no longer serve a purpose in your home though, and that’s okay. We frequently see clients struggle with the dilemma of when to keep, and when to cleanse. A myth perpetuated by TV design suggests that interior designers make clients get rid of their favorite belongings to make room for a whole new look. Everything Home takes a different approach — we first walk spaces with clients to get a feel for what items they would like to include in their updated design. From there we help clients decide how we can repurpose their favs, and ways to clear out the rest.
Deciding What to Keep
Take on the task of cleaning house little by little, room by room, closet by closet. Don’t force decisions but try to be firm with them. Having a goal in mind and working backwards will help you to achieve the design you desire. If you prefer an eclectic look, holding on to some extra heirlooms will be useful. If you are after a simple clean look, you will have to be more diligent in deciding what stays and what goes. Below is a sample list of questions to ask yourself as you prepare to purge.
Is this item still fashionable or functional?
Home decor tends to be fashionable or functional, and if you are lucky you own some items that fall into both categories. If you still love the style of an item, it’s a keep. If you are attached to the functionality of an item, like an end table with oodles of storage, it’s a keeper too.
Is this item durable enough to last?
Take advantage of a design update to let go of items that are nearing the end of their useful life. This is a great time to update tired textiles and fluff-less pillows.
Does this item make your A-list?
Make a list of vitally important items that either serve great purpose in your life or simply bring you joy. A-list items include family heirlooms and sentimental pieces too.
Is this item valuable?
Sometimes we hold on to valuable belongings for no other reason than their worth. You may want to hold on to anything that is appreciating in value over time, those are investment pieces.
Can I be happy without it?
If you are on the fence, give it a trial run. Remove the item in question from the room for a set amount of time, like 30-90 days. Then decide if you miss it or maybe need more time. If you haven’t missed the item in one year though, it is probably time to say goodbye.
Moving Out, Making Room
There are plenty of ways to ensure your once-favorite find it is loved again.
For popular high-value items, consider local consignment or direct-sale using platforms such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Let Go. If you are savvy with eBay sales, you may consider online auction for specialty pieces.
If you prefer to donate items, St. Vincent DePaul and AMVETS will pick up from your doorstep with proper arrangements. Additionally, Goodwill and St. Vincent DePaul offer drop-off locations. Habitat for Humanity is unique in accepting used cabinetry, fixtures, flooring, molding, and other structural pieces of the home.
Designing new spaces is exciting, but it comes with a lot of decisions. Everything Home is here to help you every step of the way, making the design process headache-free. Contact us to learn more about our specialized services.
