Decorating With Architectural Salvage Finds

I love architectural salvage yards and stores!!!  It always amazes me how much beauty is in so many of the old pieces I see there. Something like an old iron gate or vintage window can be used a beautiful piece of wall art.  An old corbel or a iron clawfoot from a vintage tub can be used as a bookend or as a decorative piece on a shelf. As I look through all the great stuff the ideas are endless! Each item has a ton of character, age and tells a story.  If you haven't been to an architectural salvage store yet, check the yellow pages or a local directory to find one in your neighborhood... Also, keep in mind that shopping salvaged items is considered "green" because you are repurposing (reusing) vintage items.

Flea markets are another great way to find vintage pieces and often great prices.. but at an Architectural Salvage store you get to see a large collection of beautiful and unique items all in one location.

My favorite architectural shop in Southern California is Architectural Salvage of San Diego.  It is located in downtown San Diego. It is an easy visit since it is located just off of the 5 freeway near downtown. The above photo is from their store.

I like this nicely detailed old radiator cover. With this piece I can imagine putting a wood top on it and using it as an entry hall table.  It would be so stunning!  It could also be used in a dining room as a small serving table.  If you were decorating a small space, you could use a glass table top.  The glass wouldn't feel as heavy in the room since you would be able to see through the glass to all of the beautiful scroll details. Vintage and antique radiator covers are often found made of metal or iron usually with a nice patina or painted with aged chippy paint (great for the shabby cottage chic look).  The aged look adds so much character. Just wire bush off any loose paint or debri and then I recommend sealing old items with a clear polyurathane.

Old barn doors..  I love them! Some would look at these and think they are junk... but they make great interior barn style sliding doors... and they add so much charm!  Use your imagination and take risks in decorating. It can be so much fun...

 

Shopping Architectural Salvage can give you ideas for things you may never think of when shopping your local home decor or hardware store. Just be willing to open up your mind and think outside the box. There are many unique treasures to be found.  Most vintage items can be mixed into any decorating style.  Mixing old with new is in!

 

Until next time,

Happy decorating!

Diana