Reclaimed materials are a growing trend in modern building design that deliver on sustainability, aesthetics and functionality. From repurposed lumber used as flooring to salvaged bricks that form outdoor divider walls, these unique and innovative materials reduce waste while helping builders move closer to closed-loop construction principles.
This single-level family residence built from repurposed barn wood demonstrates the flexibility of incorporating reclaimed material into a contemporary design.
Reclaimed Wood
In modern building design, reclaimed wood has become much more than a trend. It’s a significant signifier of the industry’s move towards sustainability and health-centric design, offering a refined aesthetic while minimizing environmental impact.
Reclaimed lumber can be found in everything from walls and flooring to siding and furniture. It can be sourced from buildings, barns and warehouses and can display telltale signs of its previous life such as nail holes, oxide stains and circle saw marks. Choosing reclaimed wood can also reduce the amount of raw material used to produce new materials, while helping to conserve existing timber and minimize landfill waste.
Even in a modern home, reclaimed wood can bring a sense of warmth and character to a space that could otherwise feel cold or sterile. The rough-hewn look of repurposed wood with stylish imperfections offers a polished counterpoint to the angles, concrete and glass common in many contemporary designs.
For a more eclectic, reclaimed look, unique pieces of salvaged wood can make for a one-of-a-kind headboard or custom wall art. In the bathroom, reclaimed wood can be incorporated as face frames for vanity cabinets or as an elegant surface for your bathtub. In the kitchen, a wooden feature wall can add a warm and rustic touch or a more cosmopolitan flair depending on the finishes and furnishings chosen.
Reclaimed Metal
Reclaimed metal is an important component of modern design trends. By reusing materials, architects are able to save money and reduce waste. In addition, they can also incorporate a piece of history into their designs. This trend is not only environmentally responsible, but it also allows architects to create unique spaces.
There is only a limited amount of metal on the planet and recycling it helps conserve resources. It also cuts down on pollution. Landfills can contain toxic metals that leach into the soil and water, so keeping these items out of landfills is critical.
Scrap metal is the material left over from product manufacturing and consumer use. It includes anything that is no longer useful, such as empty aluminum cans or rusty bicycle frames. It can be repurposed for a variety of uses, including building components like doors and windows or decorative elements such as fences and gates.
One of the most common items made from recycled metal is metal furnishings. Tables, chairs, and chests of drawers can be crafted from old aerosol cans or tin-plated steel sheets. Other recycled metals include old car bonnets and wheels, discarded machine tools and industrial parts, and even reclaimed steel from the Bay Bridge.
Reusing metal is beneficial for the environment because it lowers the carbon impact of new construction. However, it may not always be cost effective for a construction project. For example, the upfront costs of reclaimed metal may exceed those of new materials.
Reclaimed Tile
Tile is a classic building material, and when it’s repurposed for flooring or walls it adds an authentic feel to any space. Reclaimed tile is also a great option for those who want to go green. Since repurposed tiles don’t undergo the same manufacturing process as new tiles, they have a smaller environmental footprint.
One of the most popular repurposed tiles is terracotta. This beautiful clay tile was originally made in France and has a European charm that makes it perfect for any home. Often salvaged from old farmhouses and chateaux, repurposed terracotta has been weathered to provide a unique aesthetic.
Repurposed terracotta is also a green choice because it doesn’t require as much energy to make as ceramic or porcelain tile. New ceramic and porcelain tiles must be fired in kilns that consume fossil fuels to reach temperatures high enough to harden the materials. Sourcing tiles from older buildings eliminates the need for this energy-intensive process, and since repurposed tile isn’t used as long as new tile, it has a lower carbon footprint.
Reclaimed tile can recreate the look of any design element, from brick and concrete to wood and metal. It’s especially great for those who want to incorporate industrial style in their homes, as repurposed elements can help balance the raw, rugged vibe of this design style with a softer, more refined visual.
Reclaimed Brick
Brick is a durable and long-lasting material that can add a rustic, vintage, or modern look to building projects. Reclaimed brick is an eco-friendly option that can lower construction costs and reduce environmental impacts. The process of reclaiming brick involves saving used bricks from demolition sites and cleaning them up before reuse. This saves the demolition site from landfill waste, cuts out the cost of extracting, manufacturing, and transporting new bricks, and reduces energy usage (Greenspec, n.d).
While reclaimed brick does not require any manufacturing, it may have some initial processing costs. It is important to consider these additional expenses before choosing reclaimed brick for your project. The price of reclaimed brick may also increase with the size of your project, as larger projects often require more materials than smaller ones.
Reclaimed brick can add a unique aesthetic to your project and can increase its value. The weathered patina and historical charm can attract potential buyers or renters who are interested in sustainability and eco-friendly features. It can also make a building stand out from the competition and add to its curb appeal. Using reclaimed brick can also help to preserve historic buildings by avoiding the need for replacement. This helps to protect cultural and historical heritage, which is a positive for any community. It is important to note that reclaimed brick cannot be treated with water-repellent products like silicone, as it will erode due to its natural material properties.