From Photo Studio to Dining Table: A Tale of Repurposing

Posted on by Ilze

In 2008, I opened a photo studio. I wanted the space to be both functional and stylish, so I commissioned a local youngster to create a custom table and shelves. The design was an industrial dream—dark wood and metal, perfectly matching the vibe I envisioned for my studio.

Fast forward to a few years later, life happened, and the studio was packed up (after COVID). The table and shelves stayed behind in the space, which passed on to Jānis’ brother. Over time, they began to bother the new owners, taking up space and no longer fitting their needs.

At first, I felt disappointed when they told me to take it, in my defense – they know how we live and what is happening in our lives. They are family! But as it turns out, their refusal became a blessing in disguise.

Now, that sturdy industrial table has found a new role in our home as our dining table—a temporary solution, of course! It’s large enough for our family to gather around for meals and study, do craft projects, etc, and has proven to be incredibly practical.

I can’t help but smile at how life repurposes things. What once held cameras, bills, and contracts now holds plates, cups, and family meals. It’s a beautiful reminder that even when plans change, some things find a way to stay useful and meaningful in unexpected ways.

Do you have any pieces of furniture or objects that have found a second life in your home? Let me know in the comments!

Ilze

P.S. couldn’t find matches to light up the candles… for more moodier feeling 🙂

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26 thoughts on “From Photo Studio to Dining Table: A Tale of Repurposing”

    1. I have a table that has been in my grandmother’s family for generations. During the invasion, when Russia came, they confiscated everything. Someone came to their home and meticulously listed every item they owned—not just furniture, but even cups, forks, and other small items. Then they took it all away. However, they forgot to include the table and chair the person was sitting on while making the inventory—so those were left behind!

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  5. The table looks great in your home, it blends with that lovely flooring, Ilze! I don’t have furniture that is repurposed, it was purchased new when I bought the home after the divorce. I have been looking into having a designer come here and give me some ideas for new flooring and furniture.

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              1. I’m sure you can but you use the metric system, I don’t know how it works. We use the Imperial system. The guy was here and now gone. This will be expensive but it’s an investment in my home.

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                1. I don’t like expensive 🙂 I steer clear of that! but as you say – it’s an investment! Please share before/after on the blog 🙂 It’s always interesting to see how it changes 🙂

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