At Gracie’s House, every piece we transform has its own little backstory – just like the people who end up falling in love with them. Upcycling isn’t just about giving old furniture a lick of paint. It starts long before the sanding and priming – it starts with the hunt.
So, where do we find our pieces, and how do we know when we’ve found “the one”? Let’s take you behind the scenes.
Where We Find Our Furniture
We don’t have one set place we go to — part of the magic is in the hunt! Here’s where you’ll often find us rummaging:
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Local Auctions
These are absolute treasure troves. From sturdy old dressers to quirky side tables, auctions are brilliant for unearthing pieces you won’t find on the high street. -
Charity Shops and House Clearance Sales
We love giving pre-loved furniture a second life. Charity shops and clearance sales are ideal for finding pieces that might otherwise be overlooked, but with a little TLC can shine again. -
Online Marketplaces
Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and local selling groups are a constant source of potential projects. It’s always exciting scrolling through listings and spotting something with gorgeous lines or vintage details. -
Word of Mouth
Over time, people in our local community have come to know what we do. We often get messages saying “I’ve got an old sideboard you might like” — and those pieces are often the ones with the best stories attached.
What Makes a Good Candidate for Upcycling?
Not every piece we come across is right for Gracie’s House. Here’s what we look for when choosing furniture to transform:
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Solid Construction
We always check that a piece is sturdy and well-made. Solid wood is our favourite — it stands the test of time and takes beautifully to paint and finishes. -
Interesting Details
We’re drawn to furniture with character: carved legs, decorative trim, old hardware, or an unusual shape. These details often come alive with a fresh coat of paint or a new colour scheme. -
Good ‘Bones’
Even if the surface is a little worn or the handles are missing, if the piece has good structure and proportions, we can work with it. Often, it’s the ‘ugly ducklings’ that turn into our most loved creations. -
Potential for Practical Use
While we adore beautiful furniture, it’s important that our pieces are also functional. Whether it’s extra storage, a unique bedside table, or a statement sideboard — we want our upcycled pieces to fit beautifully into everyday life.
Why It Matters
Each piece we bring into the workshop becomes a labour of love. The process of choosing furniture thoughtfully means we start every project already excited about the transformation ahead.
We don’t just paint furniture – we rescue it, reimagine it, and send it off to a new home full of life again. That’s the magic of Gracie’s House, and we’re so glad you’re along for the ride.
P.S. Got a piece you think we should see? We’re always open to suggestions and donations. Drop us a message on Instagram or Facebook – we’d love to hear from you!