If there’s one thing social media, namely TikTok, is known for, it’s showcasing all the creative and adorable home decor trends that are sweeping the internet.
However, there’s one influencer in particular who caught our attention due to her craftsmanship and ability to see through everything (and here we mean… Everything) as a new opportunity for home decor.
(Image credit: Future PLC)
3 unexpected things you can turn into home decor
Annika Hinds, the DIYer and home decor enthusiast behind @blondesigns on TikTok, posted a video that has received more than 13 million views and over 2 million likes, leaving fans around the world pleasantly surprised.
The text in the video says, “Personal perspective: You never use things to fulfill their purpose,” and shows off just a handful of Annika’s (supposedly) easy DIY projects to repurpose things. Most Unexpected items in the interior eye candy, from pool noodles, and napkin holders, to LEGO toy boxes.
“I see everything as home decor,” Anika commented on TikTok. Let’s just say, you understand what it means to upcycle your furniture.
@blondesigns ♬ original sound – Annika Hinds
We have to admit, we’re a little obsessed with all these recycling ideas, as in the caption: “I wish my brain would do this.”
So, let’s talk about a bunch of these genius DIY ideas and how you can make them happen yourself with a little (or a lot) of determination.
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
1. Pool noodle seat
Who knew pool noodles could be used in home decor? Annika explains that you can make your own tufted bench which can save you hundreds compared to purchasing a new one.
@blondesigns ♬ original sound – Annika Hinds
She uses pool noodles, some plywood, and velvet fabric. By the end of the DIY process, the end result is practically identical to a store-bought replacement. She revealed that she only spent about $30 (that’s about £24) when the original amount was just under $500!
The comments on this video said: “Make your own right!” ‘I was a little worried when the pool noodles came into play, but you killed it!’ We agree.
Foam noodle for pool
2. Tissue holders turned into shelves
If DIY isn’t really your forte, there’s also another hack to show for you using metal napkin holders that I found at our equivalent of the Poundshop.
Instead of using it for its original purpose, she installed it on her wall to keep her record collection and it looks very stylish. It’s definitely a way to elevate your living room wall decor ideas and we wish we had thought of this sooner.
@blondesigns ♬ original sound – Annika Hinds
The best part is that you don’t have to keep it silver, but you can also spray it in different colors or wrap colorful threads around it to match the color scheme of your living room or bedroom. It’s a win-win.
This moon shaped napkin holder can be the perfect and innovative solution to hold your favorite books, magazines and records.
3. Lego rack
In the wake of our obsession with the LEGO flower trend, you know we’re all ears when we see this LEGO shelf hack come into play.
If you’re currently on a mission to declutter your kids’ room and you find storage boxes of old toys that you’re planning to donate, consider saving them for a second.
@blondesigns ♬ original sound – Annika Hinds
If you have leftover spray paint, this might be just the paint idea to consider, especially if you’re a self-proclaimed minimalist and enjoy a fun idea in your home.
Very Purple All Purpose Spray Paint 400ml
(Image source: Future PLC/Caroline Mardon)
Of course, we’ve also had our eyes on the other tricks Annika showed off in her video (we haven’t forgotten about you, mushroom bench), but we just wanted to mention a few to put you on the right track to potentially unleashing your inner creativity in a way that feels more achievable.
Her TikTok page is full of all these genius upcycling hacks, so if you’re in need of some home ideas, consider her another resource you can listen to for inspiration.