One of my all-time favourite things to find when I’m out junking is Broken Architectural Salvage and turning it into farmhouse decor for our home. They might be covered in dirt, have cobwebs and hard to see past that they are broken and just junk! These are the best finds ever because once you get them home and give them a little scrub behind the ears they just add so much character to your home. So for this months Farmhouse Hens, this is the perfect project for taking broken things and making them new again!
How to turn Broken Architectural Salvage into Farmhouse Decor
Old Air Vents
You’re probably thinking what the?? Air vents from old homes are the perfect wall art or addition to a little vignette.
The more chippier the better! Stick with neutral colours or galvanised vents if you’re after the farmhouse look. But if you happen to come across a particular one that you love you can always paint and distress it.
Old Doors
Doors can add texture to a blank wall and the best bit is they don’t leave any holes! Simply lean them up against the wall and then go nuts decorating to add your own special touch. Doors also can be moved around your house when you want a bit of a change.
This door plus another door formed the arch at our wedding. It’s been so nice that we have been able to keep them and use them as a keepsake of our special day!
Keep an eye out on the side of the road and at junkyards.
Old Windows
Again just as doors they make fabulous wall art. Windows are great to fill in space above cupboards and sideboards.
You can see how I turned this old window into a Gather Sign here.
This old window was found on the side of the road. All the glass was missing but add a wreath and the window frame becomes a cool farmhouse style feature on our French Script Sideboard.
Old windows also make amazing seasonal decor. A few years back I made this Baby It’s Cold Out Side Window and added a wreath to the centre where the glass was missing.
Spindles, Corbels and Fretwork
Adding fretwork to your vignettes adds a beautiful so much charm. When I came across this piece it had a giant long piece poking out from one end. But once removed and a little clean up it added some height to the top of our Card Catalogue! For pieces like this which are raw timber and old like this I highly recommend giving them a wipe over with Hemp Oil to seal the wood and seal in all of its yummy bits.
Corbels are another fun way to add texture to your vignettes around your home.
Last but not least spindles or balustrades from old homes add height to your displays! I hope that sharing these few broken architectural salvages that I have found and then added them to our home have inspired you next time you’re out junking.
Don’t forget to check out below all of the other fabulous projects below from my Farmhouse Hen Pals below!
Happy Treasure Hunting!
Be sure to PIN for later!
How to Cut and Modify Vanity Drawers for Plumbing
Stephanie at Abbotts At Home! Blog / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter
Wicker Rocker Makeover
Denise at My Thrifty House! Blog / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter
How to turn Broken Architectural Salvage into Farmhouse Decor
Sam at Raggedy Bits! Blog / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter
Broken Mirror becomes Farmhouse Bulletin Board
Leanna at FaeriesandFauna! Blog / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter
Chicken Wire Planter
Tarah at Grandmas House DIY!Blog / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter
Antique Butcher Block Island Becomes The Perfect Farmhouse Table
Michelle at Our Crafty Mom! Blog / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter
9 comments
Oh my Sam, this post is nothing short of perfection. I want to move to your house. I want all of it. Your vignettes are spot on, and stand out because they are so unique. You inspire me.
Squeeeeeeel, those air vents are gorgeous. I want some and I love what you’ve done with those salvaged windows too.
Thank you so much, Michelle!! They sure are a favourite in our house too!
So many cool ideas Sam! Love anything chippy and weathered!
Aren’t they just the best Michelle! They sure do tell a story!
Love this idea! I mean duh! It’s using something salvaged. Great choice.
For sure Deborah!! 🙂
All such gorgeousness, Sam.
Thank you so much, Larissa! I just love finding old pieces to decorate with!