It's Time To Let Go Of These Old-school Home Furnishings
Do you still have a giant fork and spoon on display? Go for these chic decor furniture pieces instead.
We’ve seen them at our tita’s place or at our grandparents’ home—furnishings like the good ol’ spoon and fork decorating the wall, or electric fans perched precariously above the TV console. Unfortunately, these pieces are already outdated and, to a certain degree, tacky. Interior designer Erika Uichanco suggests these alternatives you may consider for a simple home makeover.
Let it go: Fork and spoon décor
We can find these in old Filipino houses, and we may even have possibly “acquired” the same style in our own home. “These items, when overdone, can make a space look very outdated,” says Erika.
Update it: A grouping of antique spoons and forks in a decorative frame, or a row of beautiful plates are more pleasant décor ideas, and it’s also easy to DIY. If you’re really sentimental about that larger-than-life pair of decorative utensils use them with restraint, says Erika. “Use an oversized one, but display it sparingly by balancing it out with a modern floor lamp or table pieces with slim and updated silhouettes.”
RL Tip: You can also play around with wall plates and accents. These Fornasetti pieces look extra chic, don't you agree? If you're feeling extra creative, you can also experiment with colorful plates.
Original Fornasetti pieces are available at La Maison Deco, Unit G04 Robins Design Center Building, #31 Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.
Let it go: Electric fan on the wall
While this appliance is a must-have in this tropical country, hanging it on the wall can be an eyesore—not to mention dangerous when not installed properly.
Update it: With the many options for electric fans these days, it’s easier to choose one in a sleek silhouette, says Erika. “Updating it will increase the air ventilation and circulation around the room, and it will also change the look of your space,” the designer adds. There are also vintage-inspired stand fans you can check out. Visit the nearest appliance store to see your options.
Let it go: Wedding souvenirs
“More often than not, these items look way too different from each other and have names or initials that are not yours,” remarks Erika. In other words, those wedding souvenirs are such impersonal items that add nothing to your space.
Update it: “Choose a few items that you think might work in your space, and scrap everything out. You don’t always have to keep everything that you receive. These will only add to clutter at home.” Once you’ve picked out which ones work best with your home’s style, mix them in with other items—place a few on the bookshelf, or add one or two to your tabletop vignette. “You can play with depth and layering by mixing it with items that complement each other. Just remember not to overdo the mixing of all souvenirs. Don’t be afraid to add or remove ribbons, cords, or twine to make the souvenirs your own and to match your home décor,” Erika elaborates.
Let it go: Plastic bins and drawers
They’re cumbersome, shiny, and come in a gamut of glaring colors. Plastic bins, while definitely utilitarian, can make a room look gaudy.
Update it: Switch to woven baskets, which you can style differently whenever you want to, advises Erika. Baskets add texture and chic style to a space while still being functional. If you need bigger storage pieces that don’t cost much, go for ready-made ones laminated in faux wood finish. If you really can’t do without plastic bins, choose those in neutral or pastel colors (there are now a wide array of options in department stores).
Let it go: Faux plants and flowers
These are still popular today because faux plants are cost-effective and require no care at all. Unfortunately, more than a handful of these fake greens make a space look tacky.
Update it: “I would suggest to still go for real plants. Research on what kind of plants will work well with your schedule and lifestyle. You’ll be surprised that there are a lot of plants that can go [for days] without water, and some that need minimal sunlight,” says Erika. But if you really have no green thumb and are keen on getting faux plants to decorate your space, choose those that are of good quality and pair them with beautiful vases. “Try to make them look less fake, and don’t forget to dust them every so often,” the designer advises.
