6 second-hand items interior designers love to add character to your home & you can find them in a charity shop from 50p

LOOKING to give your home a little more soul without spending a fortune? 

Thankfully interior designers know the secret often lies in second-hand treasures, and from just 50p, you can bring history and instant character to any room.

Victoria Robinson , style and trend expert at Hillarys , told Fabulous: “You don’t have to spend a fortune to give your home a stylish facelift. 

“Some of the most unique and characterful pieces can be found on a budget if you know where to look. 

“Facebook Marketplace, charity shops, and local flea markets are absolute goldmines for one-of-a-kind finds that instantly add personality to your space. 

“Not only are you saving money , but you’re also giving pre-loved items a new lease of life, which is a win for both your wallet and the environment.”

Here are six second-hand items that provide instant character without a hefty price tag….

1. VINTAGE MIRRORS

One of the quickest ways to add charm and a touch of grandeur to any room is a mirror, which gives the illusion of more space and light.

And while they can be pricey to buy brand new, you can swerve an expensive price tag.

Hunt around flea markets, Facebook Marketplace, or charity shops – often you’ll find unique pieces for a fraction of the price.

Victoria added: “Look for unusual frames or shapes—these little details add instant character. “You can also upcycle a plain mirror by painting the frame in a bold colour for a truly bespoke touch.”

2. TRINKETS

Small decorative items may seem like clutter, but the right trinkets bring personality and character to your space. 

Think brass figurines, porcelain ornaments, or quirky ceramics. 

Victoria advised: “The key is to hunt for pieces that speak to you, rather than just filling a space. 

“With a bit of creativity and an eye for hidden gems, you can transform your home into a space that feels truly unique—without breaking the bank.”

Charity shops are treasure troves, and we previously shared how one man found a £3 stone mask ornament that could be worth over £900.

It turned out he had just purchased what appeared to be an Italian terracotta mask tea light sconce from the 1960s – and the handmade vintage item is currently being flogged for as much as £957.97 online.

3. RETRO DESKS AND CHAIRS

A retro desk or chair can transform a dull corner into a stylish home office or reading nook. 

You don’t need to spend a fortune on brand-new furniture, with antique styles always popping up on Facebook Marketplace and local selling sites.

A quick sand and polish can turn a second-hand bargain into a design-led statement.

Victoria added: “When it comes to furniture, a solid wooden coffee table found second-hand can become a real statement piece. 

“Whether you leave it as is to showcase its natural charm or give it a fresh coat of paint or varnish, it’s a simple way to add warmth and character to your living room without spending much.”

4. DECORATIVE CUSHIONS/LAMPS

Another budget-friendly way to add character include mixing and matching decorative cushions.

Alternatively, you can also add throws to your sofa, or even swap out boring lampshades. 

Victoria explained: “Don’t underestimate the impact of swapping out standard lampshades for something with a bit more personality.”

5. VINTAGE FURNITURE

Instead of kitting your flat out with expensive new furniture – or even Ikea bargains – you should consider that vintage items often have more character, and can be cheaper.

Anne Haimes, Founder of Anne Haimes Interiors , added: “You can often find vintage furniture for a fraction of the cost at second-hand shops. 

“And don’t be scared of furniture that shows a little wear and tear – this will only add to the ‘lived-in’ feel.

“Lacquered wooden furniture, in particular, is the perfect choice for older, opulent styles. 

“Opt for dark woods like mahogany or walnut.”

6. ARTWORK

You may think that artwork is reserved for the super wealthy as an added extra for their home, or even an investment piece. 

However, the average person can transform their home with beautiful artwork with some savvy shopping. 

Many charity shops will have budget pieces available to walk away with – and some tips too.

Anne said: “There’s no need to drop a small fortune on artwork if you don’t want to – I’d recommend having a dig around your local charity shop for art prints and frames that you can bag for a bargain.”

We previously shared how one woman was amazed to find the paintings she’d walked away with for £2 each from a carboot sale were originals from the British painter Anne Cotterill and worth 225 times her original investment.

After getting them valued, she took them to an auction and both paintings were purchased for a total of £900.

Once you have sourced some art pieces, why not showcase them in the form on a gallery wall.

Anne advised: “Just keep in mind to always frame your artwork and mix up frame colours, styles and sizes for an eclectic approach.

 “You should also hang your artwork all the way to the ceiling for the most dramatic impact.

“This will give the illusion of your room appearing taller and grander.”