Sitting in my hallway are some shutters that I removed from one of my windows. I took them down because they just didn’t allow enough light into what is a small room. So I’ve been thinking about repurposing them. Shutters and doors can easily be repurposed as a headboard, as you’ll see in the following images.  The trend of repurposing is environmentally friendly and creates a unique element to your shabby chic home.

The settee, what we might call sofa or perhaps couch here in the U.S., functions as visual and style anchor for a living or family room.  In an otherwise light and bright atmosphere, a black settee adds depth, mystery, and even a bit of sensuality.  Here are some vintage and vintage reproduction settees that caught my eye:

This one is definitely a throne fit for a queen!  I could handle this.  Image from emmas designblogg.

Fancy sette above from Style Estate Blog and casual settee below from Treehugger.

Here, more chocolate brown than black, is an image from Kaboodle.  And below is a very similar one  from Apartment Therapy used in the bedroom.

I’m liking the the Victorian and French styles with the high backs and scrolling wood detail.  But as you’ll see in the photo below from Vintage Chic Furniture, this more  modern black sectional sofa looks very comfy and inviting.

Your home workspace may be a corner in the dining room or you may have an entire room devoted to it. Function is the primary focus here, but there’s also room for style. If you’re wondering how to incorporate shabby chic furniture into the mix consider some of the following inspirational images.

The above workspace from flickr pairs a modern modular desk with a vintage chair, lamp, and mirror. It offers lots of storage for files, etc.  Alternatively, the table style desk below offers less storage but might be more your style.  The classic style table has a clean white top while the details are in the table legs.  Image from flickr. 

Finally, if decoration is more important than having lots of workspace, consider a vintage writing desk. This desk has been sanded to reveal the wood and can be used as is or repainted in neutral tones to match your style. From flickr.

Every piece of furniture in the shabby chic home is meant to be used and the dining table is no exception. A simple, functional table that accommodates your entire family can create a relaxed atmosphere and encourage lively conversation.
The country farm table is a good example of shabby chic furniture. It is sturdy and grounding and able to withstand most any stress your family can put it through.

Add some sturdy chairs with washable cushions or slipcovers (the kids like to use them as a napkin), and you won’t have to worry all through dinner that your furniture is soon to be ruined.

The shabby chic table can be dressed up for special occasions with a luxurious tablecloth, candles, and fine dishes.

Shabby chic table images courtesy of Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic and CountryLiving.com