One of the best parts about interior design is bending the “rules” — and few things are more satisfying than giving furniture a second life in a totally unexpected way. Whether you’re working with a tight space, a tight budget, or just want a unique look, repurposing furniture can give your home personality and function. Here are a few of my favorite ways to think outside the box — or in this case, the dresser. Dressers Beyond the BedroomWe all know the dresser’s usual role: folded t-shirts, socks, pajamas. But have you ever considered using a dresser in your art room, craft space, or office? The deep drawers are perfect for storing sketchbooks, paint supplies, files, tech accessories — even printer paper and backup cords. Plus, the top makes a great display space or drop zone for your favorite mugs, plants, or inspiration board. Nightstands as Side TablesNightstands are basically just compact side tables with extra storage — and they can be so useful outside the bedroom. Try placing one next to your sofa or reading chair. That drawer is the perfect hiding spot for coasters, remotes, or charging cables. Bonus points if it has a cabinet or shelves underneath: stash extra blankets or your current reading stack. Sofa Tables That Go Rogue Don’t let the name fool you — sofa tables have a life far beyond the living room. Try using one as a narrow entry table to catch keys, mail, and sunglasses. Or tuck one behind your bed in place of a traditional headboard for an ultra-functional statement piece. They also work great in home offices or kitchens as a bonus surface for plants, cookbooks, or that growing coffee station you keep adding to Buffets and Sideboards: The MVPs Buffets and sideboards might’ve started in dining rooms, but they’re total utility players. Use one in an entryway for shoes, bags, and seasonal storage. Place one behind a sofa for a chic console look. Need extra space in your bathroom? A slim sideboard can hold towels, toiletries, and even that rogue curling iron that never has a home. Honestly, these pieces can live anywhere — and they’ll always bring a bit of style and structure. We use a set of two sideboards in our basement to hold all of our board games, and the counter space on top hold decorative items. We love form and function! Armoires for All the Things Armoires are seriously underrated. Once used mostly to hold TVs or clothing, these beauties are now prime real estate for all kinds of storage needs. Use one in a craft room for wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbons, and supplies (bonus points if you add rods or baskets inside!). In an office, they’re amazing for hiding away printers, files, and chargers — basically turning into your personal mini command center. Or get creative in the kitchen: use an armoire as a chic pantry, a coffee/tea bar, or a home for your less-used appliances like mixers and slow cookers. Closed doors = instant clutter cure. Cookie Jars with a New PurposeLet’s talk about cute containers. Vintage cookie jars, glass canisters, or even fun ceramic crocks? Don't limit them to baked goods. These are perfect for organizing pantry staples like protein powders, collagen scoops, or individually wrapped snacks. You can also use them for storing tea bags, dog treats, or loose odds and ends like rubber bands and twist ties. They’re functional, adorable, and always a conversation piece. We just spinned these jars around so you don't see the "coffee" and "cookie" decals When you stop assigning furniture to just one “correct” room or purpose, your home gets a whole new layer of creativity and personalization. Whether you're blending style with storage or just having fun with what you already own, it’s all about making your space work for you.
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Summer break is a magical time filled with sunshine, popsicles, and... chaos. Let’s be real—when the kids are home 24/7, your house can go from "Pinterest-worthy" to "did a tornado hit this playroom?" in about 20 minutes. But don’t worry, you don’t need to transform into a strict drill sergeant or live in a sea of clutter. There is a happy middle ground. Here are some real-life, zero-judgment tips to help you keep your home (and sanity) somewhat organized while the kids take over this summer: 1. Set Up Summer “Zones” in Your Home Kids need space to play, but that doesn’t mean every space has to become a toy explosion site. Create dedicated zones:
2. Do a Morning Reset (Together!) Before the day gets away from you, take 10–15 minutes with the kids to reset the house. Make the beds, put dishes away, and tidy the main living area. Bonus: Kids are more likely to help when it’s part of the routine—not a punishment for having fun. 3. Rotate Toys Instead of Having Everything Out Too many toys = more mess and less appreciation. Try rotating a few bins every week. The novelty keeps them interested and helps reduce the mountain of things they drag out daily. Sarah's daughter rotates her Barbies with her American Girl Dolls and it's worked great because she's enjoyed playing with both for years and hasn't gotten tired of them. 4. Create a “Drop Zone” for Summer Gear Wet swimsuits, flip-flops, pool bags—they all need a place to land. Set up a spot by the door with hooks, baskets, or even a washable mat. This one small system can seriously reduce the amount of chaos and soggy towels on your floors. 5. Keep a Summer Schedule (Loose is Fine!) A general rhythm—like play, snack, quiet time, outside—can help anchor your day and cut down on the “what are we doing now?” whiplash. Write it on a chalkboard or use pictures for little ones. Predictability makes life feel more manageable (for everyone). Examples are: 6. Involve Your Kids in the Clean-Up This isn’t just about giving you a break (though yes, please). Teaching kids to help around the house builds independence and pride. Give age-appropriate tasks and keep it lighthearted—play music, race the clock, or offer a small reward if needed. 7. Declutter Early in the Summer Before summer hits full speed, take one day to declutter the obvious stuff—broken toys, outgrown clothes, expired sunscreen. Less stuff means less to manage when your energy is low and the popsicle sticks are multiplying. 8. Let Go of “Perfect” Finally—and maybe most importantly—give yourself grace. The house won’t always be photo-ready, and that’s okay. Organized doesn’t mean spotless; it means functional and peaceful for you. Focus on systems that work for your family, not what Instagram says is “right.” Summer’s meant to be fun, not stressful. A few thoughtful systems (and a whole lot of flexibility) can make your home feel like a safe, happy place—even with the joyful chaos of summer break.
You’ve got this. And if you don’t? That’s okay too. We're just one call away if you need backup. Small Changes, Big Impact: Why You Don’t Need to Overthink Your SpaceWhen people think about redoing a room, they often jump straight to big, expensive overhauls—new furniture, tearing out walls, full-on renovations. But here’s the thing: transformation doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. In fact, little changes can go a long way when it comes to refreshing a space. Think of it like this: your home is constantly evolving with you. So sometimes, all it takes is a small shift to bring new energy into a room. Start with furniture rotation. You’d be amazed how different a space can feel just by rearranging the layout. Moving a chair to another corner, angling your sofa differently, or switching your bedside tables can make a room feel fresh—without spending a dime. It also helps you see the room’s potential in a new light (literally—sometimes that chair looks so much better by the window). We had this client flip their living room which was the perfect to create this focal wall piece where the television could be. It also created a much better visual when entering the space form the foyer. New color, new vibe. Never underestimate the power of paint. Changing a wall color—even just one accent wall—can shift the entire mood of a room. Want a cozy, grounded feel? Try a warm, earthy tone. Craving something calm and airy? A soft sage or misty blue might be your best friend. You don’t have to repaint the whole house—start with one room, or even one wall, and go from there. Statement updates. If you're up for something a little more hands-on, swap out a backsplash, change a light fixture, or update cabinet hardware. These are all high-impact elements that don’t require a full remodel. A new backsplash in the kitchen or powder room can completely change the space’s personality, and there are so many budget-friendly options now that look like a million bucks. Don’t overthink it.
Design doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. Often, it’s the subtle, thoughtful touches that make a space feel like you. If something doesn’t feel quite right in your home, try tweaking one small thing before jumping into big decisions. Shift something. Paint something. Add a plant. You’ll be surprised how far those tiny adjustments can take you. Your home should work with your life—not add more to your to-do list. So if you’ve been itching for a change but don’t know where to start, just remember: start small, stay curious, and let the little things lead the way. Ah, the dresser—a hardworking, storage-savvy staple of the bedroom. But let’s talk about that neglected patch of wall above it. You know, the one that’s either screaming for attention or drowning in an oversized, uninspired mirror. Why let all that vertical real estate go to waste when you can turn it into a stunning, functional focal point? Depending on your storage needs (or your love for aesthetics), the space above your dresser can be purely decorative, highly practical, or a little bit of both. Let’s explore some fresh and stylish ways to elevate this area! The Statement Mirror (Because Some Classics Never Fade) A large mirror is the tried-and-true go-to—and for good reason! It reflects light, making your space feel bigger and brighter, and let’s be real, it’s pretty convenient for last-minute outfit checks. Go bold with an ornate vintage mirror, sleek with a minimalist round one, or edgy with an asymmetrical design. Want to mix it up? Try layering smaller decorative objects in front of it for a curated, effortless look. A Gallery Wall: A Little Bit of You, on Display Why settle for one piece of art when you can have an entire collection? A gallery wall above your dresser gives you the freedom to showcase your favorite prints, photos, and even unconventional items like woven textiles or decorative plates. Mix and match frames for an eclectic feel, or keep it cohesive with a monochromatic theme. Bonus tip: Lay out your arrangement on the floor before hammering nails into your wall—your future self will thank you. Leaning Art and Objects: The No-Commitment ApproachIf the idea of hammering things into your walls makes you cringe, consider leaning art, mirrors, or decorative pieces against the wall instead. Layer different sizes for a relaxed, artsy look. It’s effortlessly chic and gives you the freedom to switch things up whenever the mood strikes. Floating Shelves: Chic and FunctionalWhen you need storage but refuse to sacrifice style, floating shelves are your best friend. Stagger them for an artsy vibe, or keep them aligned for a structured, modern feel. Use them to display books, small potted plants, framed art, or even stylish storage baskets. Think of it as a vertical playground for your personality! A Single Oversized Art Piece for Instant Drama Sometimes, bigger really is better. If you’re drawn to a clean, uncluttered aesthetic, an oversized painting or print might be your best bet. Whether it’s an abstract canvas, a serene landscape, or a bold portrait, a large piece of art can command attention and set the tone for your entire space. Hooked on Hooks: Hanging Storage with FlairNeed a little extra functionality? Install decorative hooks or a peg rail above your dresser to hang jewelry, scarves, or even small baskets. This option keeps everyday essentials within reach while adding a stylish, structured element to your wall. Final Thoughts: Make It Yours!The key to styling the space above your dresser? Make it a reflection of you! Whether you go full gallery wall, stick to a single statement piece, or mix and match elements, this area has the potential to be more than just blank space—it can be a personal, stylish extension of your home.
Now, go forth and style with confidence! And if you ever find yourself staring at your dresser wall in decorating despair, just remember: there’s no rule that says you can’t change things up whenever inspiration strikes. |
Revive with Style is a professional organizing and interior design company ready to personalize and revive your home to reflect your style. We’ll help you streamline your life and provide you with tools to create beautifully functional spaces.
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