Reclaimed wood is popping up all over in the design world, from ceilings to floors, and it’s also a major trend for furniture. While reclaimed wood isn’t new—the wood itself or the idea of repurposing this durable material—it’s certainly seen widespread surges in popularity in recent years. Today, reclaimed wood furniture can bring character and style throughout your house. For instance, reclaimed wood living room furniture is unique and its rustic charm makes it perfect for living in. A reclaimed wood dining table is great for hosting large family dinners, and a reclaimed wood desk brings a sense of sustainable style to your study.

The Value

It’s easy to see the appeal of different types of reclaimed wood, including barnwood furniture. Each piece carries a unique story, hundreds of years in the making. Reclaimed wood may be sourced from an old barn, home, factory or other decommissioned building, or may come from old ships, crates, fences, pallets or more. The act of repurposing durable wood also carries ecological benefits, decreasing the demand for new lumber as well as the waste building up in landfills.

Along with a unique history and sustainability, reclaimed wood brings with it a distinctive appearance that fits with many of today’s popular design styles. The variety of tones and textures brings interest and warmth to a design, and the imperfections and distressed finishes add to the character.

The Style

Reclaimed wood lends naturally to rustic design styles, fitting with today’s popular farmhouse trend, as well as country-style designs. However, reclaimed wood furnishings and fixtures aren’t limited to cabins and lodges. Historical fixtures, furnishings and more can be paired with transitional and contemporary styles. Reclaimed wood can be used as a focal point in modern designs, covering an entire wall, floor or ceiling. It can be paired with modern materials, such as stainless steel, to create a diverse yet harmonious look. It can also be introduced on a smaller scale, adding warmth and visual interest through the use of reclaimed wood furniture and accessories.

The Pieces

Reclaimed wood can be found everywhere, from our ceilings to our floors, and everything in-between. Reclaimed ceilings, planked walls and floors are being installed for their intrinsic value and warm style. Other architectural elements include ceiling beams and built in shelves and cabinets. For those desiring the reclaimed style but certain benefits of modern materials, wall panels and flooring options are available to recreate the distinctive look of reclaimed wood.

The reclaimed trend is also popular in furniture today, with farmhouse kitchen tables perhaps leading the pack. Reclaimed wood adds character and variety to these large kitchen tables, bringing an element of warmth to dining and other table-top activities. Outside the kitchen, reclaimed wood furniture can be found in many living spaces, from media consoles with barn doors to accent pieces, such as side tables.

Accessories and Artwork

An easy way to introduce the one-of-a-kind beauty of reclaimed wood that suits your existing design style—traditional to modern and everything in between—is by selecting accessories and décor for your home. Picture frames and other wall art, along with shelfs and crates can complement your existing décor while bringing a slice of history and unique style to your home.