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How to Reuse and Redesign: Eco-Friendly Tips for a Healthier, Stylish Home

When rethinking your space, learning how to reuse and redesign for a healthier, stylish home can lead to incredible transformations. Take golden oak cabinetry as an example—it may seem dated, but with thoughtful updates, it can become a unique and eco-friendly design feature.


A modern kitchen with vintage cabinet

Let's face it—golden oak cabinetry hasn't really been a top design trend since the 1980s. While many elements of 80s decor have made a comeback in the cyclical world of interior design, golden, aka honey, oak tones are still waiting for their turn. When we encounter homes fitted with this cabinetry, it's often paired with tired, ecru coloured walls, creating a dated and dreary look. However, I've learned that with a bit of creativity, just about anything—including golden oak—can be given a fresh, new life.


My Renovation Journey: Why I Chose to Keep the Golden Oak


During our renovation journey, I faced this exact dilemma. Our Seattle home, built in the 1980s, came with original golden oak cabinetry and trim that many would see as outdated. But instead of ripping it all out, I saw an opportunity to retain a unique element of the home’s character while also making environmentally responsible choices.


If I had done nothing else during our renovation, simply painting the walls a warm white (I used "Simply White" by Benjamin Moore) made a significant impact. This small change instantly modernised the space, transforming the golden oak cabinetry from an eyesore into a statement feature that complemented the overall aesthetic. It was one of the simplest yet most effective steps I took to breathe new life into our home, showcasing how thoughtful design can elevate what some might consider outdated features.


The Value of Keeping Quality Materials


I chose to keep the golden oak for a few key reasons, and they weren't just about aesthetics. The cabinetry and other millwork in our home were solid oak—a far cry from the hollow doors and particleboard you often find in modern builds, even those priced well over a million dollars. When I first saw the house's hefty, wood finishes, I knew they were a non-negotiable "must stay." The oak brought a sense of durability and craftsmanship that I wanted to preserve. It became the glue that held the design continuity throughout the house, alongside the other two core colours I chose: white and black.

Preserving original wood accents in a modern home

How to Reuse and Reimagine During a Renovation


If you're considering a renovation or a new build, it might be tempting to gut everything and start fresh. However, even if your initial project wasn't focused on creating a healthier home, there are still impactful choices you can make to achieve a more sustainable and healthy environment—starting with your decorative elements.


Here are some tips for how you can reuse and reimagine existing features like golden oak cabinetry:


1. Update with Paint: As I did in my home, a fresh coat of paint on the walls can dramatically change the feel of a space. Choosing a warm, neutral white can offset the yellow tones of the oak and make the cabinetry feel intentional and modern. This simple step is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, reducing waste by keeping existing elements.


2. Change the Hardware: Swapping out old, dated hardware for something more contemporary can transform the look of your cabinets. Sleek, matte black or brushed nickel handles can provide a modern touch that complements the oak's natural grain.


3. Incorporate Complementary Colours and Textures: Use colour and texture to your advantage. In my home, I paired the golden oak with a colour palette of white and black, which created a balanced, cohesive look. Consider introducing natural fibres, such as woven baskets or linen curtains, to enhance the warm, organic feel of the oak.


4. Repurpose and Donate: If there are elements in your home that you decide not to keep, consider repurposing them elsewhere or donating them. This is a great way to reduce waste and support sustainability. Reusing or donating items like cabinetry, fixtures, and even doors can make a significant environmental impact, reducing the need for new resources and keeping usable materials out of landfills.

hardware and paint selections for a modern home

Creating a Healthier Home Environment Through Thoughtful Design


At Lyn Cowie Interiors, we believe that even if your renovation or new build wasn't initially focused on creating a healthier home, you can still make impactful choices. Decorative elements, such as cabinetry, paint, and textiles, play a crucial role in the overall health of your living environment. By retaining and reimagining quality materials, you're not only creating a unique and personalised space but also making a conscious decision to support sustainability and reduce waste.


So, if you're fortunate enough to embark on a renovation that includes well-made and preserved cabinetry, I encourage you to think twice before discarding it. With a little creativity and an open mind, you can reuse and reinvent these quality-driven natural resources, creating a space that is both stylish and sustainable. Trust me, you won’t be sorry.


At Lyn Cowie Interiors, we specialise in uncovering the potential in overlooked elements. Knowing how to reuse and redesign for a healthier, stylish home is part of our mission to create beautiful, sustainable spaces that reflect your unique style.


💡 Ready to explore more ideas for decorating your home or light renovation? Contact Lyn Cowie Interiors today. Let us help you make lasting, impactful choices that benefit both your home and the planet.


💌 Know someone who might enjoy or beneift from these tips and articile? Simply forward it on!

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Lyn Cowie

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I create unique, eco-friendly interiors that blend vintage charm with modern design. Inspired by my global experiences and South African roots, I focus on crafting healthy, comfortable spaces tailored to my clients' needs. Whether it's a quick consult or a full interior decor project, I’m here to help make your home truly yours.

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