10 Weirdly Awesome New Uses for Old Appliances

Let’s face it, appliances don’t last forever. And when they bite the dust, we’re left wondering how to dispose of them. Here’s an idea: don’t! Instead, try one of these 10 genius ideas for transforming old or outdated appliances into beautiful, functional, and funky decor for your home.

By Faith Towers | Updated Jul 14, 2016 04:12 PM

Fun Fire Pit

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DIY Fire Pit

If you're in the unfortunate position of having to replace your washing machine, there is a way to get every last dollar of use out of your old model. Before hauling it to the dump, extract the drum and repurpose it into a DIY fire pit for your backyard. With just a few basic materials, you can create a gorgeous, contemporary fire pit that's ripe for BBQs, s'mores, and storytelling all year round.


Related: No Money to Burn? 9 Fire Pits You Can Afford

houseandfig.com

Planter Pot

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DIY Terrarium

After a coffeemaker bites the dust, it's tempting to toss the pot into the scrap heap along with it. Show that there's still life left in the pot—literally!—by giving it a deep cleaning and introducing a few garden goodies to create a charming terrarium. Layer the bottom with sand, rocks, and moss before scattering in your favorite succulents for a lush, low-maintenance look that will inject life into any space. 


Related: 10 Totally Unexpected Things to Remake as Planters

acharmingproject.com

Bright Blender

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DIY Lighting

Whip up an new take on kitchen lighting with this DIY pendant that puts the spotlight on an old pitcher from a discarded blender. Simply invert the pitcher, remove the screw cap, and assemble it into a fixture by using a lamp kit. Not only will this project cost you next to nothing, you'll also love the rustic glow of the finished product. 


Related: 8 Bright Ideas to Boost Natural Light

Etsy via BootsNGus

Cheap Seat

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DIY Stool

Here's another idea for the drum from a old washing machine! If you're in need of some spare seating, consider transforming the drum into a stylish storage stool. Cut a piece of chipboard to size, then cover it with upholstery foam and heavy-duty fabric for a cozy finish. As a bonus, use the inside of the drum to sneakily stash everyday extras out of sight.


Related: 11 Big Ideas for a Small Dining Room

claudiakiessling.com

Cool Cooler

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DIY Cooler

Turn a defunct refrigerator into a rustic cooler for the backyard. First, repurpose disassembled pallets to form a chic reclaimed exterior, then install a set of casters underneath to make the large piece easy to move. This revitalized fridge also does double duty as a convenient surface for setting up food or drinks.  


Related: 10 Surprisingly Simple Woodworking Projects for Beginners

instructables.com

Appliance Aquarium

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Upcycling Ideas

Your broken microwave may not be destined for the landfill after all—turn it into an aquatic mansion for your goldfish instead! Simply fill a cube-shaped fishbowl with your favorite marine life, then insert it into the oven cavity for a fun twist on your standard aquarium. 


Related: 9 Bad Habits That Are Killing Your Appliances

ellenaguan.com

Airy Display

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Modern Gardens

That broken vintage fan may no longer provide a breeze, but it can serve as a cool display for air plants. First, remove the wire cage from the body of the fan, and then mount it on the wall using a screw or hooks. Complete the look by tucking air plants in between the wires for a quirky addition to your decor.


Related: 11 Creatively Stylish Ways to Display Succulents

Etsy via HRUSKAA

Deluxe Doghouse

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Dog House Design

An old fridge may seem useless, but when positioned on its side, the appliance can becomes a deluxe chill spot for your favorite four-legged friends. Form an entrance ramp using one of the doors, then deck out the new digs with food bowls, toys, and cozy cushions for afternoon naps. 


Related: Weekend Projects: 5 Easy-to-Make Pet Beds

Inhabitat via Y-Town

Deconstructed Display

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DIY Home Decor

Mount a jettisoned refrigerator coil on the wall to create an industrial, vintage-style backdrop for artwork. The textured surface adds visual interest to any room and gives an arrangement of multiple pieces of art a unified and cohesive feel. If you're a renter, consider leaning the coils against the wall and simply sticking photos in the crevices for a damage-free, temporary solution.

Related: 10 DIY-Doable Projects for Apartment Renters

fourcornersdesign.blogspot.com

Prime-Time Mini Bar

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DIY Mini Bar

Mini bars aren't just for the hotel room! Pep up a bland living room or builder-basic kitchen with this quirky midcentury-inspired bar. To take the look home, you'll need an old CRT TV, a screwdriver, and a few other basic supplies. Remember to ground the electrical before taking the TV apart to avoid any shock or injury


Related: 17 DIY Mini Bars to Mix Up Your Home Decor

Reddit via mammakjeks

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