The Art of Repurposing

In today’s society, the words reduce, reuse and recycle are commonplace in everyday life. Now it’s time to apply the common mantra to the world of decorating!

The newest option is often considered to be the best option especially when considering bathroom renovations. However, this is not always the case! In a recent project, I illustrate the unique product when certain items are repurposed to achieve a specific aesthetic.

In a complete bathroom renovation for an 18th century Dutch Colonial style home, I decided that an old, traditional style would perfectly suite the hall powder room. In the bathroom, the floor is comprised of limestones that are set in a herringbone pattern. Additionally, I chose a wide grout line as a way to give the bathroom a rustic element. Furthermore, to play along with the theme, I found an antique blanket chest, which I repurposed for the vanity. The vanity displays two finishes. A shiny black paint covers the body of the vanity while the top is a varnished wood piece, hinting to the chest’s past life. Atop the vanity, sits an old, copper vessel sink. The bathroom contains a large, antique, copper soaking tub, which is both functional and beautiful. The soaking tub and vessel sink tie in well together in a subtle fashion. Lastly, the walls are finished with an old fashioned, European bird toiles wallpaper. The tan and black notes of the paper compliment the rustic, traditional theme of the powder room and the entire home.