Better Homes and Gardens recommend you add character to your home with architectural salvage and give ten tips to use when shopping for salvaged pieces:
1. Know where to shop for architectural salvage.
The Salvo online marketplace of course ....
2. Ensure a good fit.
Measure the space before you buy.
3. Check return policies.
Just case you want to return an item but remember salvage beauty is imperfect beauty.
4. Clean salvaged items before decorating.
5. Ask about any risk factors such as lead paint.
Flaking old paint could be a risk if you have young children or pets.
6. Repurpose decorative salvaged items such as columns or corbels.
Adds character and style to your interiors.
7. Showcase aged pieces.
Salvaged items can make inexpensive accents.
8. Look for hardware details.
Small but beautiful. Feature vintage and antique hardware such as drawer pulls and hinges.
9. Put architectural salvage to creative use.
If you fall in love with a piece of architectural salvage then find a way to use it. Something which is unique to you can be treasured forever.
10. Try a DIY project with architectural salvage.
Design and create your own reclaimed upcycled items. Some salvage yards run workshops or discover salvaged items already upcycled on the Salvo Recraft sector.
 
Another useful tip on buying salvage from Salvo founder, Thornton Kay, who is keen to spread the word that reclaimed materials can work on small budgets and even save you money.
 
'Using salvage usually means quite small things will have an influence on the design. Go for what is available because if you can adapt your design it will make it a lot cheaper and easier. Embrace the unexpected and use it as a design opportunity.'
 
Images show just a few of the salvaged items currently for sale on Salvo the online marketplace for architectural salvage such as the reclaimed hardwood and metal shuttering panels. These are particularly robust, with galvanized edging and thick tropical hardwood boards probably Iroko and were originally used in the construction trade, from B.C.A. Materiaux Anciens. They have found customers now using them for decking, flooring, and even for bar fronts and table tops.
 
Also the Salvo Fest Pearl anniversary salvage edit of imperfect beauty remains live with many salvaged items for sale at salvo fair.com
 
View the Salvo Fest You Tube for Reclaimed Renovation design inspiration at the link below. Other Salvo Fest You Tube videos include Styling with Salvage by Joanne Palmisano, Going Off Grid with Jo Wood, Upcycle furniture with Lynne Lambourne and many more ...