Industrial Chic part two: How did this style of Architecture and Interior Design evolve?

Drafting Table - photo courtesy of Found Objects of Industry

Industrial Chic part one touched upon why we developed so many industrial buildings, the abandonment of these buildings, the loft living trend that started in SoHo, New York and other adaptive uses for these structures. Although many distinctive buildings have been revitalized, others were structurally unstable and required demolition. A property owner with a different aesthetic may opt to remove an edifice and put up a new building. When a structure is being razed there may be unique components in good condition that are very attractive. Concurrent with the expanding interest in the adaptive reuse of buildings the Architectural Salvage trade began to prosper.

Cast iron lawn rollers - photo courtesy Found Objects of Industry

Locally we have a wonderful resource, Found Objects of Industry, is just outside of Kutztown, PA. This excerpt from their website reveals the foresight of proprietor Leonard Schechter:

“In 1972 Leonard Schechter pioneered saving architectural masterpieces being demolished in New York City. The company he created became the inspiration for an entire industry of architectural salvage that today is visible on the pages of magazines like Martha Stewart Living, Architectural Digest, and many others.”

photo courtesy of Found Objects of Industry

Len houses his collections in the Moslem Farms Mill which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are no set hours of operation; you can visit the showroom by appointment or by chance. The Found Objects of Industry website allows you to shop and browse the collections at your convenience. 

Medical Showcase - photo courtesy of Found Objects of Industry

Numerous items can be salvaged: doors, windows, mantels, stairways, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, hardware, fencing, wood, brick, stone, tile, machinery, valves, gears, pulleys, church pews, showcases, workbenches, industrial furniture, etc. Many of these items were originally constructed of sturdy materials such as metal or concrete which is why they are still serviceable today. The brick, stone and wood that was used to construct these buildings is so aged and worn by time that it has developed a rich patina. The gears and other mechanical devices are often intricate or oversized, and can be used to create wall art or accessories. Using these reclaimed treasures as components has resulted in an abundance of creative projects and useful items.

Bronze Screen from the 1920's - photo courtesy of Found Objects of Industry

Concern for the environment continues to increase. Architectural and Industrial salvage provide sustainable solutions for several of the issues. If salvaged materials are used as a component in a new item, it reduces the harvest of the earth’s resources. It also keeps the reclaimed materials out of the landfills. Industrial Chic objects can be mixed with a variety of other styles to create personalized interiors. 

Hardware Store Screw Display Cabinet - photo courtesy of Found Objects of Industry

One of my favorite found objects is this Hardware Store Screw Display Cabinet from the Victorian era. This piece is absolutely perfect for designing a "Steampunk" home.