DIYthing

Are you in a DIY decorating mood? Are you looking for really unique, artsy pieces to spruce up your apartment? If so, you might want to pay a visit to your local architectural salvage store. In NYC there are several. There is a huge one Demolition Depot located in Harlem. This architectural salvage store is located at 216 East 125th Street (between 2nd & 3rd Ave). You can find all sorts of unique vintage and antique items such as windows, doors, shutters, plumbing fixtures, railings, gates, grills, mantels, stone and terracotta pieces, and religious objects. This store is well worth the trip. You can also view their inventory online. Prices can be reasonable, but can also climb quickly for the really unique find. I love their sign, it is made entirely of salvaged parts. The owners have published a book Irreplaceable Artifacts: Decorating the Home with Architectural Ornament by Evan Blum and Leslie Blum.

Architectural salvage stores can be found across the U.S. If you are looking for one in your area you might want to start with this guide of Architectural Antiques and Salvaged Building Materials maintained by Traditional Building. It is not an exhaustive list, but it is a good starting place. Using salvaged architectural pieces is one way to support sustainability and eco-friendly practices. And, the artistic value of many of the pieces is often difficult to find today.

See the inventory online at demolitiondepot.com.

Photo Credits: DJ Elzie

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