Category Archives: Recycling

Revamped Vanities

So hear we are Friday already, this week has really flown by! I was out of town yesterday busy working with a new client on a potential model!  As I was digging through all sorts of inventory, trying to finagle what could be reused, revamped, repainted, etc I started to think about how so many things can be recreated into “New” special pieces, if you are willing to do the work!  I also thought that since I stared this week off with a post on fun finds from Scott’s Antique Market I would post some unique bathroom images I have collected in the “Style Files!”  I love turning bathrooms into a whimsical, somewhat outlandish retreats…when you can add a recycled element, even better!


This is a great shot (although I expect nothing less from Anthropologie!) Here is a very simple, table rejuvenated as a vanity.  I also love the clever way they accessorized below to hide the plumbing.(Anthropologie)


I absolutely love this idea! These two unique looking consoles began their journey as one table.  They were cut in half, and became two freestanding bath consoles that were attached to the wall using french cleats.  Brilliant! I also love how they coordinated the P-trap with the faucet finish.  This is a small detail that makes a HUGE difference.  The standard white plumbing P-trap would have really detracted from the overall look.
(Better Homes and Gardens, Summer 2008)

So this has been one of my favorite powder baths of all time! The image I had is super tiny which I cut out of a magazine sometime ago, hence the poor scan quality, however the inspiration quality is huge and I swear I will use this application in someones home soon…. Can it please be yours? Antique mirrors are very popular right now and you can find them all over.  What a clever way to add character and make a very small space (4′ x 5′) feel much larger!(Apologies,  Source unknown)

I am not a fan of mopping, and would much prefer to use an old pail this way!!(European Homes & Gardens)

This is a great use of an old farm table – The same application could work with just about any console style table if you have the length!  I think it is great that it extends in front of the window.(Apologies, Source unknown)

Here is a few thoughts before you start your rejuvenation project!
1. If you are working with a chest of drawers, make sure the actual frame of the piece is sturdy enough without the drawers in it.  Sometimes having the solid drawers in it is what holding the life in the chest, if you start cutting and reworking the framework, it may not be sturdy enough in the long run.
2.  Check you local codes.  Many times on new construction homes, they will not allow a unique, found object to be used as a sink.  Certain counties require certification for the inspector to approve.  Just be aware and don’t be disappointed if you had your heart set on using the mop pail!

Enjoy the weekend!

Fun Finds

Happy Monday! Time to start all over again, but the coffee is flowing and I am ready for a productive week.

We are fortunate here in Atlanta, the second weekend of every month, Scott’s Antique Market rolls into town.  It is a great place to search for that “perfect piece” or just to peruse the halls for inspiration! I went on Saturday and spent 5 and 1/2 hours soaking in all the goodies! Here are some fun finds I thought I would share….

Love, Love, Love this! These are two separate cabinets from a 1960’s pharmacy.  It is an enameled white metal with the original letter inserts.  You could put this piece is SO many places: a foyer, a mudroom, or even a TV console.

It is hard to tell how amazing this was and the scale of it from the image, but I promise, it was spectacular! This is an old clock front from New Bedford, MA that is just about 7 feet tall.  If you had the right  spot for this, it would be an awesome focal point.

French Cooking tins, who would have thought! They would make a great wall hanging accent in a set.  You could also hang them as chalkboards, how great in a kitchen!

These are some great industrial lights, that had a wonderful scale (they were probably about 18″ Diameter).  If you are looking for some unique pendants over an island, these would be beautiful!

Love these French antique bottles (I believe they are Cider jars, but I am not positive).  Great accessories alone or in the crate.  They also make great lamps like I used below.

(Photography by Chris Little)

I think Cabinet Hardware is sometimes just as important as the cabinet design itself, I consider it the jewelry that can finalize an outfit.. it will make or break it! These square drop pulls, I was told were early 19th century. LOVE!

Here are a couple modern versions:
Old World Drop pull, Shown in Oil Rubbed Bronze, $12.99

Century Hardware Medieval Bail Pull, Shown in Polished Chrome (available in several finishes), $15.70

I hope you enjoyed some of my fun finds!! What unique pieces have you come across that inspired you or you just couldn’t live without? I would love to hear!
Have a great day!