How to keep a cohesive style when furnishing your home second-hand

Living in rented property can be soul destroying – and not just because of the steep prices and tricky landlords. 

With uncomfortable couches, plain walls, and a barrage of magnolia paint everywhere you turn, it can feel impossible to make a flat feel like your own, particularly on a budget. 

Even for those able to buy their own property, kitting it out with all new furniture is hardly affordable. It can take hundreds of pounds to make a house feel like a home, especially in this economy. 

Buying furniture second-hand is the obvious solution. Whether from a charity shop or Facebook Marketplace, there are loads of bargains out there, and a surprising amount of hidden gems. Plus, it’s sustainable.

As Jen Bernard, founder and managing director of Bernard Interiors, says: ‘Not only does investing in second-hand pieces reduce the constant demand for new items, which could prove costly over time, but it also makes a personal statement in your space that will stand the test of time.’

When shopping second-hand, you’re more likely to find something classic, unique and full of history and character. 

Not to mention, vintage furniture is likely to last, not only structurally but in terms of style, too. Conversely, trend-led items which ‘peak in popularity and then steadily decline,’ are much less value for money.  

‘In a throwaway society, buying with purpose will give your home more depth, character, and personality,’ says Jen.

But what happens if you want a cohesive style? While mismatched furniture works perfectly if you’re into cluttercore and eclecticism, it isn’t as useful for those who prefer a modern, minimalistic vibe. 

When buying second-hand, you have less control of what’s available at a particular time, but it is possible to find exactly what you want if you’re willing to take it slow and shop around. 

And you don’t have to settle for mismatched furniture and clashing colours and textures if you don’t want to – here’s how.

Establish a colour scheme

First, establish a colour scheme. 

‘Unless you are a fan of the eclectic interior design scheme which welcomes a very broad colour palette, try to pin down four key colours that you want your space to incorporate,’ says Jen. 

Maybe you want one overarching neutral tone and a few bold colours to spice things up.  

‘When you begin looking for items to blend seamlessly with your vision, it will be easier to refer back to your original palette and stay on track,’ she adds.

Settle on textures

Along with colours, you also want to be picky about textures.

‘If you want to establish a modern space, textures like metal, glass, or marble are ideal choices for hard surfaces,’ says Jen.

‘If you’re looking for a more rustic look, wood is the word. 

‘Decide which textures would best suit your space before you shop to keep all spaces coherent.’

Only buy what you love

Finally, it’s important to remember that, firstly, getting rid of second-hand furniture you’re not so keen on isn’t as easy as showing a receipt, and there is a chance the things you buy will eventually turn to clutter.

‘Only buying items that you truly love will ensure that every room in your home is consistent, as the only items that are on display are those that inspire you,’ says Jen.

Don’t just buy the first thing you see because you’re in a rush, and don’t buy anything if you’re on the fence.

As Jen says, ‘this is truly the key to creating a space that captures you and your style entirely.’

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