If the term “reclaimed wood” conjures up images of rustic cabins and country charm it’s time you took another look at this material. Modern designers and architects increasingly turn to reclaimed wood and other components to lend a unique persona to modern homes – both for the exterior as well as for interior spaces.

Popular since the 1980’s, reclaimed wood has evolved from a shabby chic element to an ultimate expression of individuality. Because no two pieces are exactly alike, homeowners can be assured that their space is unique. Reclaimed materials are also the optimum recycling effort, which is important to many people who care about the green factor in the building materials that they chose. In fact, the sustainability factor is making reclaimed wood one of the most in-demand design materials today.

Upscale Exteriors

On the exterior of a modern home, embracing rough-hewn wood that is full of stylish imperfections warms up modern designs that sometimes risk seeming a little sterile. The warmth and earthiness offers a polished counterpoint to the angles, glass and concrete typical of a modern design.

Even on homes of a more contemporary or transitional design, reclaimed wood – either as an accent or as part of an overall look – brings a chic element to the structure.

Whether the wood is reclaimed from pallets for an outdoor garden design or carefully sourced from other special buildings, it’s a design expression that highlights sustainability.

Uncommon Interiors

On the inside of the home, reclaimed materials can lend a warm accent to a room or be the sophisticated focal point of a sleek living space. They are a piece of history that can be woven into the design of every room of your modern home. Unlike factory milled, mass-produced pieces of furniture or building materials, reclaimed wood has a character that is only enhanced by the artist who transforms it into the final product, be it a simple picture frame or a large dining table.

Bespoke Bathrooms

In the bathroom, unique pieces of wood can be used to face cabinetry or serve as an elegant surface for your vanity. The right juxtaposition of a modern bath with these materials can create an unparalleled spa feeling. Even framing a mirror, using wall décor made of reclaimed wood, or incorporating it into light fixtures makes the space one-of-a-kind.

Stunning Kitchens

Kitchens offer a broad canvas for using reclaimed wood. Again, small touches such a chandelier can enliven a bland modern space, or, a large, dramatic dining table can serve as a warm but cosmopolitan focal point in the kitchen.

Many homeowners are returning to wood for countertops in a design departure from the ubiquitous granite that now graces most homes.The reclaimed wood lends an upscale feel to a basic kitchen island and gives added character to a sleek room. The strength and durability of wood are also major selling points.

Stylish Living Areas

Using reclaimed wood in the living areas of the home provides an opportunity to create a fantastic focal element in your modern design. Whether it’s a sassy light fixture, a dramatic accent wall, or the covering for an entire ceiling, reclaimed wood can definitely be a harmonious partner to modern materials and angular designs.

Tasteful Bedrooms

In bedrooms – and even nurseries – unique wood elements can elevate your design. Statement headboards, uncommon dressers and chests, or even a custom wall of salvaged, multicolor pieces can be an aesthetically pleasing expression of individuality.

Small SwankyExtras

Not ready to remodel or take the plunge with an entire wall of reclaimed wood? With today’s explosion of hand-crafted goods that are available on-line, it’s easy to find accessories and art pieces made from reclaimed wood and other materials. These smaller items are an easy way to audition a reclaimed wood look in your modern space. Start with accent pieces or try out some reclaimed shelving before investing in a major change.

Finding the right blend of warm rustic reclaimed wood and modern design will allow you to create your own custom interior that perfectly fits your lifestyle and design personality.