Picture This: Upcycled Elements

Stephanie Wallace

3 years ago

At my husband’s custom home building firm, Michael Lauren Development, we try to think about how to make our client’s newly built homes feel not-so-new. One of the most effective tools we have found is to upcycle salvaged architectural elements and fixtures to create the feel of history in a home, new or old. Here are some excellent examples of how to upcycle!

You just can’t find new entry doors that look as authentic and hand crafted as older ones.

Salvaged doors can be used creatively to make a house feel older than it is.

Vintage lighting and a small piece of carved salvaged wood create warmth in this new kitchen.

An accent wall is a great use for salvaged tile especially if you don’t have much!

Using an old dresser or sideboard as a sink base is a unique way to add a piece of history to a bath as well as incorporate interior design.

Using reclaimed wood floorboards as open shelving creates instant charm in a kitchen, laundry room or library.

I love this new trend of using salvaged tile as an accent in outdoor applications.

This old garden newel post is a great way to incorporate salvaged iron into your interior space.

Using elements like oversized Murano crystal can transform a basic room into a piece of art.

Antique mantels are relatively easy to find locally and online. They just don’t make them like they used to!

This French crystal chandelier conveys history and is a true showstopper. Notice the mirror doubles the impact.

Transform older brick and stone (even if you don’t love the color) by applying this German smear technique to tone it down.

*All images above from pinterest.com