Reclaimed wood is a popular choice in interior design and decor, and for good reason. Not only does it add character and warmth to a space, but it also has a number of environmental benefits.
In this blog post, we will explore the use of reclaimed wood in interior design and decor, including its benefits, how to incorporate it into your home, and where to find it.
Benefits of using reclaimed wood
First, let’s talk about the benefits of using reclaimed wood. One of the biggest advantages is that it is an environmentally friendly option. When wood is reclaimed, it is taken from old buildings, bridges, and other structures that are no longer in use. This means that it is salvaged from the waste stream, preventing it from ending up in a landfill.
Additionally, because the wood has already been harvested, there is no need to cut down more trees. This is particularly important as deforestation continues to be a major environmental issue.
Reclaimed wood also has a unique aesthetic. The wood is often weathered and has a patina that can only be achieved with age. This gives it a warmth and character that is difficult to replicate with new wood.
Additionally, because reclaimed wood is often salvaged from old structures, it can have a history and a story behind it. This adds a sense of authenticity and interest to a space.
How to use reclaimed wood
Incorporating reclaimed wood into your home can be done in a number of ways. Here are 10 suggestions to get you started:
- Flooring
- Furniture (tables, desks, chairs, etc.)
- Wall paneling or cladding
- Ceiling beams or accent walls
- Kitchen cabinetry or countertops
- Barn doors or sliding doors
- Shelving or bookcases
- Decorative accents such as mantels or picture frames
- Outdoor decking or fencing
- Custom cabinetry or built-ins for closets, bathrooms, or other spaces.
A popular use for reclaimed wood is for furniture such as tables, desks, and dressers. The wood’s unique character can add a lot of visual interest to a piece of furniture.
Same goes for reclaimed flooring if you can source enough of it for your job. It can add a unique and rustic look to your home.
Additionally, reclaimed wood can also be used for walls, ceilings, and even as accent pieces such as picture frames or shelves.
How to source reclaimed wood
When it comes to finding reclaimed wood, there are a few options.
They include:
- A local supplier that specializes in reclaimed wood.
- Local sawmills or lumber yards.
- Salvage yards or architectural salvage stores.
- Online marketplaces such as Etsy or eBay.
- Demolition companies or builders that specialize in salvage and reuse.
- Local classifieds or community classified websites such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
- Beach or forest area that isn’t located on private property.
You can often find old wood discarded in residential garbage left out for pick up and also online, often free for pick up for people who just want to get rid of it.
Reclaimed wood purchasing considerations
When buying reclaimed wood, there are a few things to keep in mind. One is that the wood will often have knots, nail holes, and other imperfections. These add to the character of the wood, but they also need to be taken into consideration when planning a project.
Additionally, reclaimed wood can often be more expensive than new wood. This is because the wood has already been harvested and the process of reclaiming it is labor-intensive.
Overall, the use of reclaimed wood in interior design and decor is a great way to add character, warmth, and a sense of history to a space. It is also an environmentally friendly option, as it is salvaged from the waste stream and does not require cutting down more trees.
When incorporating reclaimed wood into your home, it is important to consider the unique characteristics of the wood and to plan accordingly. With a little bit of planning and creativity, reclaimed wood can add a lot of visual interest and charm to any space.
