To some “antiquing” is considered a little girlie, probably because of all those tea cups and saucers. That’s okay, there’s another more universally appealing craze we’re seeing in even the highest ends of design: architectural salvaging. In a recent visit to New Orleans, the DiggersList crew happily participated in this fascinating world of “digging”, discovering home decor items, features, and pieces packed with the most richest of histories and stories. One example was a beautiful old mantel that had recently been restored using wood salvaged from a barge that had sunk in the Mississippi River.
Clearly, the beauty of this type of decor is in the craftsmanship, the detail, and most importantly, the aging. Often the question is, “But, how do I integrate old stuff like architectural salvage items into my home?”…yes, especially when your home’s style might be contemporary, traditional, or even Asian decor. Take a look at these wonderful examples of infusing history into today’s homes. The trick is actually pretty simple: if a piece appeals to you, mix it in a little bit at a time. In other words, start small, live with it, and if it “feels” good to you, then it works. After all…there really are no rules in design. It’s about you and your taste…sweet.
Leaded beveled glass window. Source: Kitchen + Bath makeovers (summer 2010 edition) via bhg.com and vintagesimplehome.blogspot.com
{Leaded beveled glass window}: something so simple is so sweet and packs a compact punch of style and architectural flare. Anyone can do this…that’s the design genius.
Ceiling medallions. Source: casasugar.com
{Ceiling medallions}: with a fresh coat of paint, these darling discs are not only eye candy, their interesting designs are quite sophisticated and easily integrated into a vast array of styles.
Bull head, dog and dresser; image taken at Big Daddy’s Antiques, Los Angeles. Source: Skaie Knox, DiggersList
{Bull head, dog and dresser}: arranging eclectic architectural items into vignettes is not only unique and unexpected, it allows us to mix cultures, styles and really show off our personality.
Headboard topper. Source: bhg.com
{Headboard topper}: the theme here is simplicity. A feed-sack-covered headboard is architecturally crowned and brought to a whole other level.
Reclaimed wood box; image taken at Nouvelle Lune, New Orleans. Source: Skaie Knox, DiggersList
{Reclaimed wood box}: hand-crafted from Katrina torn houses, this once storm-torn wood is now a treasure to be displayed and/or used to hold other precious memorabilia.
