Watching the finals of Grand Designs House of the Year 2022 reminded me how recycling and re-using things is cost-effective and good for the planet. The idea of reclaiming is not new and is even more on-trend with the current focus on sustainability.

Volunteering in a charity furniture shop has also opened my eyes to the possibilities of breathing new life into old things, so here are some ways you can be more creative with your interior style and save money.

Back to basics
Architectural salvage yards are good hunting grounds for creating a modern rustic look. You can find anything from reclaimed floorboards to old vintage tiles. Get creative with natural wood. Two friends of mine have made stylish dining tables by adding new tabletops to old table bases, using a single beautiful piece of timber and industrial style wooden planks.

Retro lighting
Stylish looking lighting can be expensive, but you can pick up some fab vintage pieces in charity shops if you love a mid-century or modern look. Electrical items are carefully checked by experts and you’ll be amazed at the variety and prices of lamps and lampshades, often in perfect condition.

If you like a more industrial feel, I came across retro lighting company Skinflint at a design fair in London and I was impressed by how sustainability is at the heart of everything they do.

Repaint and repurpose
A quick and easy way to add vibrancy and colour to a room is to paint an old piece of furniture. It’s really not difficult, all you have to do is trawl online sites or local charity shops for interesting-shaped pieces, invest in a good paintbrush and some beautiful paint.

Farrow and Ball match-pots are great for smaller items, and Annie Sloan’s easy-to-apply chalk paint comes in a wide selection of colours. You will find plenty of videos on YouTube showing you what to do.

Re-upholster and recycle
Why not give a pre-loved chair or ottoman a new lease of life by re-upholstering it? A good way to introduce some pattern and a pop of colour to a room. For a bespoke designer look, Changing Rooms expert Micaela Sharp advises using good quality fabric, mixing patterns and adding some trim. Check out her easy-to-follow online course.

I love rooting through remnant bins in fabric shops for gorgeous pieces of material. Start a new hobby and create something unique.

Personalise with much-loved vintage pieces
Adding authentic character to your home is easy if you fill it with the things you love. A chair from your granny’s house that sparks childhood memories, or things that have travelled with you through your life and say something about you.

With a little bit of ingenuity and creativity, you too can create a home that is stylish, individual and joyful.