Architectural Salvage Stakes a Claim
No need to hit the junkyard. Gorgeous salvage finds are now showing up in mainstream stores — and stylish interiors
Houzz Contributor. I am an interior designer with a passion for modern clean spaces and timeless vintage decor which makes for a unique eye. I work in Los Angeles but offer e-design services nationally. Visit my website and my blog at http://www.veneerdesigns.com
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There was a time when architectural salvage materials could be found for very little money, offering great savings along with a layer of uniqueness. Now that more architectural salvage yards are open to the public and more people appreciate the history and texture that architecturally salvaged materials bring to their homes, retailers are also offering salvage style at a premium. The appeal of salvaged materials is that they can be made to conform to any style, from traditional to modern. And there is still plenty of potential for savings and a special touch if you can think outside the box.
| This is a stunning mix of an antique look with a modern interior. Although the wood stove looks antique, it is actually new. The floor is reclaimed wood from a variety of species. The spiral staircase and blue kitchen cupboard are indeed architectural salvage. Who would have guessed? |
A salvaged door, perhaps from an office or a bygone era of residential building, would make quite a first impression. The weathered appeal of wood is inviting and warm.
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| Smaller doors can be repurposed into cabinet fronts. No need to try to match the new wood to aged, repurposed wood. Using bright white shelves and cabinets for the rest of the cabinetry actually draws attention to your centerpiece wood doors. |
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Appliances that were made to last can be used decades later. An old stove range with an ultramodern hood, minimalist cabinets and concrete floors make for an unforgettable mix in the kitchen.
by Jane Kim Design
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The floors, table, kitchen counters and open shelves complement the existing bold brick wall here.
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by Jane Kim Design
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Old window casings make for awesome mirror frames. Think big after seeing this salvaged copper window casing used as a vanity frame.
by Maureen Rivard
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Antique molding can be applied to any door or window frame. Take your door or window measurements with you to the salvage yard to find pieces just the right size.
by Dreamy Whites
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An old mantel can be spruced up and given a new life as a stunning headboard. You can display knickknacks, store books or even place small reading lamp on the shelf above your head.
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An antique mantel can also be used as ornate decoration in your kitchen above the stove.
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Antique wood carvings from the Far East add an exotic touch to any room. Paired with global fabrics and muted colors, even campaign furniture, you can create a room that feels like a haven in your own home.
by Monica Ewing
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Old orphaned drawers stand upright and are attached to one another to become a new shelf unit. Personalized with a slick paint job and wallpaper backing, this new unit truly reflects its owner's taste.
If you find an amazing door to salvage, you can fit the door frame to the door you want in your remodel or new construction rather than trying to find a door that fits the frame.
| This could be a mantel for the bedroom headboard, a kitchen range hood, or another decorating item no one has thought of yet. |
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West Elm delivers salvaged wood shelving so you don't have to scour for that perfectly weathered yet strong and straight piece.
by Hudson Goods
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Salvaged wood is great as a rustic top for a dining table, coffee table or console.
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Restoration Hardware excels at making salvaged style feel upscale. Who else could make me covet used worn tarp as repurposed into large storage bags?
Building materials, components and appliances can be salvaged. Furniture is also high on the list.
| I might turn an old wine rack like this into a bench with upholstered cushions. |
I have seen new versions of this idea, but it would be incredible to own a floor lamp made with an original tripod.
Tell us: What is your favorite salvaged find?
More:
Salvage Style: Reinvent Shipping Pallets
11 Ways to Repurpose Shutters
Decorating on a Budget: 10 Repurposing Ideas
Tell us: What is your favorite salvaged find?
More:
Salvage Style: Reinvent Shipping Pallets
11 Ways to Repurpose Shutters
Decorating on a Budget: 10 Repurposing Ideas
Ideabook published on March 15, 2012.
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Here are some more ideas for salvage in my IDEABOOK too :)
We have been in the business since the '70s and we have an absolutely sprawling inventory that is always changing. Who knows what you can find?