The words “reduce, reuse, and recycle” have gotten a workout since the first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. But one of our new favorite “re” words is repurpose — finding a new purpose for an old material to give it new life and avoid the landfill. This kitchen features a perfect example of repurposing as old Mason-style ball jars become eye-catching industrial pendants.
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While we knew that RLM warehouse shades were all the rage in the United States during the 1930s and 40s in factories and warehouses, apparently they were quite popular Down Under too. Our friends at the Red Brick Barn, a rustic, two-story retreat in central Victoria, found some vintage warehouse shades at a local flea market and repurposed them for use in the communal dining room. The shades were green enamel when found at the flea market but were spray painted an off-white color leaving a hint of green showing at the rim as an accent.
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Farmhouses can be both a blessing and a curse. A blessing in that they’re filled with character and history and charm. A curse in that the years can take a toll even on well-built homes. When Diane and Jim of Washington, Vermont, took ownership of their old family homestead, built in 1850, they knew it would need some updating.
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Family heirlooms can take many forms. Grandma’s favorite brooch is nice; Uncle Eddie’s collection of 1940s Popular Mechanic, not so much. Today’s Featured Customers, Diane and Jim of Washington, Vermont, hit the jackpot when it comes to family heirlooms. They recently took ownership of the family farmhouse which was built in 1850. Like most old homes, this treasure needed some updating.
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When you live in a place that saw settlers as early as the 1600s and your own home is more than 100 years old, you feel a sense of responsibility to respect the history and vernacular of the place. Especially when remodeling! Our friends at the design firm of Schappacher White Ltd., in Lower Manhatten, recently undertook the full renovation of a 1904 farmhouse on Shelter Island located at the eastern end of Long Island. The renovation included an addition, swimming pool, and site planning. The goal was to use as many reclaimed materials as possible along with modern pieces that would layer the history of the space with today’s amenities. The kitchen boasts a traditional farmhouse feel with open shelving, white beadboard cabinetry, wood floors, and two delicate barn pendants highlighting the center island.
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Barn doors have been popping up in places other than the big building on the back 40 for some time now. Barn doors are rustic yet with an industrial edge, and this custom-made, knotty pine door features a clear stain that lets the grain, knots, and character of the wood show through beautifully. Adding to the barn flavor is the Wall Sconce just inside the next room. Read More »
