Just Let It Go

Sometimes heirlooms make a space, like the trunk and leather lounge chair in our Howard Ave Project. But what do you do when a sentimental piece just isn’t working?

As a design firm that works directly with people to make what they have work and edit what isn’t working, we inevitably run into that piece. You know the one- the rocking chair that was passed down from childhood. Or that china hutch that has housed your family’s china since childhood. There are always the pieces that just mean more because of their history. And those pieces will often bring lots of character and history to a space and will be used and loved for a long time.

But what happens if the worn, dingy chair from Aunt Mildred just isn’t serving you anymore? What if it no longer fits into your aesthetic? What if it’s just worn beyond repair or saving? Just let it go! Yes, you can still have a love for your family items and hold them in your hearts without keeping the sentimental item until the end of time.

To start, take a picture of the piece so it can always be remembered and loved. Even if it’s not a piece of furniture you plan to keep in your possession, you can still remember the item and its history fondly. And hopefully the furniture will have a long life after you let it go.

Second, try offering the piece to a family member or friend who might have a place for it in their home. Thinking of our friends and family being able to enjoy the item often helps with the sting of having to let the item go.

If you aren’t able to pass it on to a friend, try selling it! Facebook Marketplace makes it easy to list items and it’s a quick way to sell your furniture to someone who will enjoy the piece as much as your family has. The little bit of extra cash in your pocket doesn’t hurt either.

If the item doesn’t sell and you know the item still has life left- try donating it! We love to give items to the Habitat Restore because we know the item is going to an organization that is doing good in our own community and directly benefits families who need help the most.

The items in our home tell a story of our lives and that’s the beauty of each person’s home reflecting their story. We aim to make sure your home reflects your story most clearly and brings peace when you enter. If there are items that aren’t bringing you joy- it is ok to make peace with letting them go.