In nature nothing is created, nothing is destroyed, everything is transformed, so it’s important for the environment to recycle what we can! Got an old window to spare? Planning on updating your windows and don’t know what to do with the old ones? Instead of throwing your old windows away and adding to the planet’s trash problem, let’s upcycle them!
Turn on the DIY-er in you and check out these wonderful upcycling projects that turn old windows into amazing new furniture!
It makes a big difference to recycle. It makes a big difference to use recycled products. It makes a big difference to reuse things, to not use the paper cup - and each time you do, that's a victory. -Emily Deschanel
Coffee Table
Let’s start this list with this super fun and stylish coffee table! The creative project can be done with basically any window frame you have, and the steps are pretty simple: you’ll only need to make a frame and attach the legs. Isn’t it easy?!
Learn all the details and how-to at Tatertots and Jello!
Photo Frame
This idea is perfect for those who love taking pictures! Don’t let all fun and spontaneous photos of your friends and family or those beautiful shots of landscapes (my favorites!) stay forgotten on your Instagram feed: let’s put all of them up the wall!
Paint a window frame with a colorful tone (or strip it away!) and attach it on a blank wall to showcase all those fun photos that instantly make you smile!
Antique Window Headboard
Instead of adding one of those boring and bland headboards to the room where you most spend your time in the house, consider putting up antique windows to create this beautiful look! You can leave them with their natural look or give them an update by:
- Painting them with different colors
- Adding a distressed texture
- Changing out the glass for a tempered option
- Etc.
And no, the windows won’t fall off on your head while you’re sleeping, don’t worry! You’ll use picture frame hangers to put them up and secure them in place by using nails on the edges, which will keep the frames straight and sturdy. Check out more details at Liz Marie Blog!
From Window to Mirror
Mirrors are a designer’s best friend, as they can instantly transform any room and make it look bigger. Whether your home has a more modern style or a traditional look (or a mix of everything, like mine) a salvaged window frame turned into a mirror can be the perfect addition to any blank space. This interesting idea can go in the:
- Entryway
- Bedroom
- Dining Room
- Bathroom (why not?!)
Check out the full instructions over at Crafty Nest!
Room Divider
A common room divider can make any room feel smaller, cramped, and enclosed, but this interesting clear divider made out of a window can actually make the space look better and lighter!
You’ll still get the functionality by breaking up the room, but with a more beautiful look and style, letting all the light in and you can still see everything. Oh, and not to mention all the compliments you’ll get from the guests for this creative idea!
You can hang the window suspended from the ceiling by using metal wires, and it would look great separating the living room from the dining table, for example.
Gallery Wall
Gallery walls are where you express your style and personality, and basically any type of object can complement the layout, including window frames. You can hang basically any antique (or not!) window, adding to your existing gallery wall or even creating a new one, like in the image above.
Antique Wooden Tray
If you prefer a smaller DIY project to keep you busy during a boring afternoon, then take a look at this awesome idea by Kelly Elko. She turned an ordinary window into a fun tray, just by adding cabinet pull handles and painting on a chevron design using the help of tape. Isn’t it super creative? This beautiful tray is super useful and it will definitely impress the guests!
Bathroom Storage Cabinet
Instead of adding those ugly storage cabinets in your bathroom, why not add a good-looking window one? You can simply switch out the existing door for the window or build a new cabinet using your window’s measurements. Find all the detailed, step-by-step instructions for the cabinet at Remodelaholic!
Old Window Pot Rack
A pot rack is super useful in a kitchen, especially if you cook more often (or like to pretend you do, like me). This project by The 36th Avenue is simple and inexpensive: you’ll only need some eye hooks and chains to hang the frame from the ceiling and some “S” hooks to hang the pans. That’s it!
Mini Greenhouse
One of the best additions to a home is a mini greenhouse. We’ve already talked about all the benefits here, but let’s recap:
- You can grow your own food
- You will always have fresh flowers
- You’ll be more in contact with nature
- It looks amazing!
It’s very simple to make a mini greenhouse out of windows: you’ll only need to gather some frames, attach them together and add legs. Check out more details over at Global Garden Friends!
Feeling inspired? Then go beyond by updating your windows for the new season use the old ones for these awesome projects!
