My Lion’s Den. How I turned second-hand finds into a regal reading space

There’s something quietly addictive about transforming a space with your own hands, especially when it doesn’t cost the earth, financially or environmentally. After watching Interior Design Masters with the amazing Alan Carr, I felt inspired to give my living room a seasonal glow-up just in time for Christmas.

I had a vision: a cozy little corner where I could curl up in the mornings with a book and a cuppa in hand – giving me a sense of calm before the days begin. A dedicated reading space. But every book nook needs a focal point, something that draws you in and gives the space personality.

The hunt for the perfect piece

After a bit of searching, I came across some beautiful animal artwork from Wolf and Bear Prints. The lion print immediately stood out to me, strong, regal and grounding. It felt like the perfect guardian for my little reading den.

But then came the next challenge: the frame.

I quickly realised that buying a brand-new, ornate frame could easily cost hundreds of pounds. And that didn’t sit right with the whole idea of creating something thoughtful and sustainable. So, I decided to go on the hunt.

I didn't realise how much fun second-hand treasure hunting is!

I scoured Facebook Marketplace, dipped in and out of local charity shops and just when I was about to give up...I found it.

At local charity The Community Furniture Project I stumbled across a solid pine frame that had been painted white, surrounding an old mirror. It had great bones and more importantly, potential. For just £15, it was exactly the size I’d been searching for.

This place deserves a special mention as it’s not just a shop. The Community Furniture Project helps reduce landfill waste by giving furniture a second life, while also creating valuable employment and training opportunities for people in the local community. That made my purchase feel even more meaningful.

Why upcycling just makes sense

Armed with my frame, I picked up some £2 gold paint from Hobbycraft and got to work.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about upcycling. With a bit of patience and a couple of slightly messy coats of paint, the frame transformed from simple white pine into something far more regal – perfectly suited to my royal lion print.

And just like that, my reading space had its crown jewel.

This whole upcycling process reminded me why I love giving things a new chapter. It’s creative, affordable and far more personal than buying something off the shelf. Plus, every piece you rescue is one less heading to landfill – a big win in my book.

It’s not about perfection either. The small imperfections are what give these pieces character and charm.

Small businesses doing it beautifully

If you’re feeling inspired to try a bit of furniture upcycling yourself, here are a few small businesses I absolutely adore for what they do:

• RetroInterior – Bold, characterful pieces that really stand out

• Restyled by SLC – Creative transformations with a modern twist

• No.96 Home and Gifts – Beautifully curated furniture and home accessories

Creating my little lion’s den has completely changed how I use my living room. It’s my favourite spot in the house, proof that with a bit of imagination and a willingness to hunt for hidden gems, you can create something truly special.

And the best part of upcycling... every piece has a story.