3 Ways to Get Rid of Stuff Before an Upcoming Interior Design Project
We often get asked about what to do with old furnishings, and over the years, we’ve compiled these resources. The most successful projects are when our clients are well prepared, which includes sharing what furnishings they want to keep, donate, or sell.
Our receiving warehouse offers item removal (for a fee) for our full-service clients, leaving ALL the heavy lifting and decisions in our hands. Whether you have a designer conducting full service design OR if you are simply looking to find resources for upcoming home projects, this list is for you — you’re welcome! .
1. Donate to Help Others
Donation of goods is often the choice for many of our clients if they have no more use for furniture, appliances, or building materials. For example, Habitat for Humanity is a great resource, with a pick-up option for their ReStores. When the items you donate to ReStore are sold, the money helps families achieve the strength, stability, and independence they need to build a better future.
Mission of Deeds is local and accepts drop-off items. Mission of Deeds gives people in need beds, furniture, and household items free of charge. The organization depends solely on private donations and does not receive government grants. I donated my nursing chair here over 10 years ago, and it was wonderful knowing a new mom would give it a second life.
2. Sell or Consign Strategically In-Person or Online
If you’re local, there are a few places for consigning, and these all operate differently. Note that most of these options have an approval process for whether they will take your item for consignment.
Brick & Mortar Options:
The Furniture Consignment Gallery takes 50% of the sale price and sells from their local store locations once you deliver to them.
Ramble Market has mostly mid-century goods for consigning or buying. Over the years, I have also found many items for styling and accents.
Online Options:
The Local Vault is online, and they will come to you to take photos of items to list, specializing in higher-end products.
I’m not a fan of Facebook Marketplace, as scams are rampant.
3. Recycle Responsibly
If you think that recycling is best, Freecycle is a great way to give away items for free to others online. Another resource is TaskRabbit, where you can hire someone to break things down and haul them away.
I have a rule, if you don’t love it, don’t keep it. Purging is as good for the mind and soul as it is for preparing for a new chapter in your life with downsizing or designing your home for the first time. And if you don’t love it, don’t buy it! Remember that interior design takes time, and we’re here to reduce your risk (e.g., buying things that don’t fit in your home). That way, you’ll be investing in pieces that have longevity.
And if you’re completely at a loss or paralyzed with the thought of where to start, reach out for a consultation to map out a design scope and plan, and we’ll include references for professional organizers.
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Warmly,
Justine
