Wausau Pilot & Review
Editor’s note: This sponsored weekly feature shares the stories of locally-owned and operated businesses and organizations in the Wausau area, highlighting the products and services they offer and the ways they contribute to the metro area’s unique flavor. Learn how to feature your business by emailing [email protected].
This week’s featured Wausau business has embraced the trend of upcycling and repurposing furniture, an idea that has gained momentum in recent years as people seek sustainable alternatives to traditional home decor. Sauvée Creative Living, 1007 N. Third St., launched about a decade ago and offers not just furniture, but also custom painted cabinetry for kitchens and bathrooms.
Owner Julia Schwinn-Nelson said the environmentally-friendly practice not only reduces waste but also adds unique character and charm to any home.
Upcycled furniture involves taking old or discarded pieces and giving them new life through creative modifications or enhancements. Repurposing, on the other hand, transforms an item into something entirely different, often with a new function. These practices have been embraced by environmentally conscious consumers and interior designers alike, who see the value in extending the lifespan of existing materials.
Sauvée Creative Living slideshow
Schwinn-Nelson said she named the business Sauvée Creative Living because the word “sauvée” translates to “rescued” or “saved” in French. It’s the perfect name for a business that understands that the appeal of repurposed furniture lies not just in its sustainability, but also in its ability to inject personality in a space.
Each piece tells a story, with its imperfections and history adding depth and interest. Moreover, this approach to furnishing allows for greater customization, enabling individuals to create one-of-a-kind spaces that reflect their personal style and values.
Schwinn-Nelson, along with expert craftsman and contractor Bruce Westberg, work together to create gorgeous spaces for a wide range of clients.
“My typical customer comes from a very wide range of lifestyles and those interested in classic furniture with a unique twist,” Schwinn-Nelson said.
Social media platforms have played a significant role in popularizing upcycled and repurposed furniture. Inspirational before-and-after transformations encourage viewers to embark on their own projects. In Wausau, Sauvée Creative Living can make that happen for you in your own home.
Schwinn-Nelson has clearly found her calling.
“I was drawn to this work because I love being creative with my mind and hands,” she said. “Helping others find new life in their furniture and cabinetry saves money and the landfill.”
The team relies on high quality products including Sherwin-Williams Paint and Annie Sloan Chalk Paint to transform furniture and cabinets into truly one-of-a-kind pieces that challenge conventional notions of beauty and functionality in home decor. Whether your project is large or small, Sauvée Creative Living offers free consultations and estimates and will work with you to find the perfect solution.
Schwinn-Nelson said she loves the cool workspace where the Sauvée Creative Living team works its magic – and she loves working with people in the Wausau community.
“I love doing business in Wausau because of the friendly clientele and getting to know people’s different interests,” she said.
Connect with Sauvée Creative Living
- Address: 1007 N 3rd Street
- Phone: 715-870-1108
- Follow Sauvée Creative Living on Facebook at this link
- Email: [email protected]
