There’s something special about incorporating reclaimed materials into a home. Whether it’s the rich character of aged wood, the charm of vintage architectural pieces, or the sustainability of repurposing existing materials, using reclaimed elements brings warmth, history, and uniqueness to any space. And the best part? There’s no single way to do it—reclaimed materials can be seamlessly integrated into nearly every aspect of home design, from structural elements to decor.

How to Incorporate Reclaimed Materials in Your Home

One of the biggest misconceptions about reclaimed materials is that they only fit within rustic or farmhouse-style homes. In reality, these materials can be adapted to almost any design aesthetic—modern, industrial, classic, or even minimalist—depending on how they’re used. Here are just a few ways to bring reclaimed elements into your space:

1. Architectural Features

Reclaimed wood can be a stunning architectural addition to a home, whether it’s used structurally or decoratively. Some ideas include:

• Ceiling Beams: Exposed reclaimed wood beams add depth and warmth to any room.
• Mantels: A reclaimed wood mantel above a fireplace can be a subtle yet striking focal point.
• Doors: Vintage doors, whether barn-style sliders or intricate antique panels, bring a distinct personality to a space.
• Accent Walls & Paneling: Salvaged wood can be repurposed into shiplap, wainscoting, or even geometric accent walls.

2. Furniture & Built-Ins

Reclaimed wood isn’t just for large-scale renovations—it can also be used to create stunning furniture pieces or custom built-ins:

• Dining Tables & Benches: A reclaimed wood dining table can be the heart of a home, rich with natural imperfections and character.
• Open Shelving: Floating shelves made from salvaged wood bring warmth to kitchens, bathrooms, or offices.
• Bathroom Vanities: A repurposed dresser or reclaimed wood cabinet makes for a beautiful and unique vanity base.

3. Countertops & Cabinetry

Reclaimed wood countertops add an organic element to kitchens, home bars, or laundry rooms. The imperfections, knots, and variations in color tell a story and create a surface that can’t be replicated. Even cabinet drawer fronts or islands made from salvaged wood can bring an unexpected depth to a space. All of these imperfections in reclaimed wood can really pull together a unique, one of a kind look if that is what you are going for.

4. Flooring & Tile

One of the most common ways to use reclaimed materials is through flooring. Reclaimed hardwood planks are often sourced from old barns, factories, or historic buildings, providing a level of quality and durability that’s hard to find in new materials. Salvaged brick or stone can also be used for entryways, patios, or fireplaces to bring in an old-world charm.

5. Vintage & Salvaged Decor

If you’re not ready to commit to major renovations using reclaimed materials, smaller decor pieces can still bring the same character into your home. Some ideas include:

• Old milk crates or wood boxes repurposed for storage
• Vintage light fixtures with patina finishes
• Antique hardware (knobs, pulls, and hinges) to add a historical touch to cabinets and furniture

Living & Working Among Reclaimed Materials

At Tailored Spaces, we don’t just incorporate reclaimed materials in client designs—we are surrounded by them every day. Our showroom is located in The Starline Factory in Harvard, IL, a historic building that once served as a stanchion factory dating back to the late 1800s. Walking through the space, you’ll see original hardwood floors with mismatched planks, deep patina, and visible nail holes that tell a century-old story. Vintage details like old wood crates, rustic barn doors, and salvaged industrial elements are woven throughout the space, serving as a daily reminder of the beauty and history in repurposed materials.

Even within our showroom, we’ve incorporated reclaimed materials into our design solutions. We use salvaged wood for cabinet sample storage and drawer fronts, showcasing how these materials can be used creatively and functionally. It’s a testament to how reclaimed elements don’t just belong in the past—they can be reimagined for modern-day homes and businesses.

Why Choose Reclaimed?

Beyond the visual appeal, using reclaimed materials is a conscious choice that promotes sustainability. Repurposing old materials reduces the demand for newly harvested resources, minimizes waste, and keeps high-quality materials from ending up in landfills.

Whether you’re embarking on a full home remodel or simply want to bring a touch of reclaimed charm into your space, there are countless ways to do it. With a little creativity—and the right sources—you can integrate history, craftsmanship, and sustainability into your home design in a way that feels personal and timeless.

Written By: Karissa Brown