If you are in the process of building a new home or redesigning your existing home and Old World style is your design goal, architectural salvage yards and antique stores can be great resources for authentic and unique items.
Architectural Salvage Yards and Warehouses
Items found in an architectural salvage yard have been obtained from buildings and homes that have been dismantled or partially destroyed and are often considered junk because they have not been cleaned up or refinished. However, that old adage “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure” certainly holds true if you are looking to authentically recreate a specific design style. You can find old doors, iron elements that include door knockers, lighting fixtures, railings and hardware, unique window frames in arched or gothic shapes and outdoor or garden items that include benches, finials etc. Since these items have not been refurbished they are often very affordable and part of the fun is the hunt for a “diamond in the rough” that you can bring back to life yourself.
Antique Stores
Antique stores have always been a great resource for items to complement a specific decorating or architectural style. Most often you will find furniture, accessories, artwork, sculpture, and textiles that are in excellent condition and have been refinished or refurbished to bring the pieces back to their original glory. Some dealers specialize in larger items like interior doors, hinges and doorknobs, leaded and stained glass windows, fireplace tools, large chandeliers and other lighting fixtures as well as furniture. However, you will pay a premium for items that are in excellent condition; but the excitement of being able to take a piece home and use it immediately is sometimes worth the extra expense.
Old world design for the exterior of your home would include arches, pointed gothic style windows, stone exteriors, dark wood doorways and window frames and rustic iron elements used in stair railings, hinges and other hardware.
The interior of these homes often feature large stone fireplaces, distressed wood floors, iron stair railings and wall sconces, heavy wooden beams and stained glass windows. Decorative items would include rich and luxurious fabrics done in jewel tone colors like burgundy, gold and green. Heavy tapestries would hang on the wall and upholstered furniture and draperies would feature large bullion fringe.
This is a style that is certain to turn your ordinary home into an old world castle for you and your family to enjoy.
