Weekend Book Reviews: Upcycled Chic and Modern Hacks: Thrifty Ways for Stylish HomesBy Liz Bauwens & Alexandra Campbell

In Upcycled Chic and Modern Hacks: Thrifty Ways for Stylish Homes, Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell offer a refreshing take on interior design that merges creativity with sustainability, presenting a thoughtful guide for those who wish to transform their homes with both style and conscience. This book is more than just a manual on DIY projects—it’s a celebration of resourcefulness, artistic flair, and the beauty of giving new life to old objects.

The appeal of Upcycled Chic lies not just in its practical advice but in the authors’ underlying philosophy: that design does not need to be expensive or wasteful. Bauwens and Campbell emphasize the importance of reimagining discarded or undervalued items and imbuing them with a sense of purpose and beauty. Their approach is both mindful and innovative, urging readers to view the act of upcycling as an art form—one that fosters both individuality and environmental consciousness.

What sets this book apart from other DIY design manuals is its strong aesthetic sensibility. The projects Bauwens and Campbell present feel genuinely chic, elevated beyond the realm of rustic or amateurish upcycling. The photography is elegant, enhancing the aspirational tone of the book while ensuring that the readers are able to envision the sophistication of these repurposed pieces within their own spaces. This is where the authors succeed in making their mark: they transform upcycling from a utilitarian, cost-saving technique into a stylish, high-end craft that appeals to both budget-conscious and design-savvy readers alike.

The balance between form and function is another hallmark of the book. Each project prioritizes practical utility, ensuring that readers can implement these designs into their daily lives. But Bauwens and Campbell also remind us that beauty in the home is not something to be sacrificed for function. Their projects blend these two ideals seamlessly—be it through repurposing a vintage suitcase into a striking coffee table or converting old shutters into a statement headboard. There is a clear awareness of how design choices can reflect personal identity and values, encouraging readers to think critically about how they craft their living spaces.

However, Upcycled Chic and Modern Hacks is not without its limitations. The book’s focus on aesthetic refinement may alienate readers who are looking for simpler, more accessible projects. While the ideas presented are undeniably inspirational, some of the materials suggested for upcycling—such as antique furniture or vintage textiles—may not be readily available to everyone, especially those living in less urban areas or working with a tight budget. Additionally, while the book is comprehensive in its scope, it assumes a certain level of prior design knowledge, making it more suited to readers who already have some DIY experience.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Bauwens and Campbell’s work is an important addition to the canon of sustainable design literature. Their contribution goes beyond the specific projects detailed in the book; it encourages readers to embrace the principles of sustainability, creativity, and self-expression within their homes. In a world increasingly driven by consumerism and waste, Upcycled Chic and Modern Hacks offers a timely reminder that style and sustainability are not mutually exclusive, and that beauty can often be found in the most unexpected places.

For readers who appreciate thoughtful design and wish to reduce their environmental impact while creating personalized, stylish living spaces, this book will prove to be both a practical resource and a source of creative inspiration. Bauwens and Campbell have curated a vision of home design that is as elegant as it is ethical—making Upcycled Chic and Modern Hacks an essential read for the modern homeowner.