The use of reclaimed wood has been common for ages, but while it used to be a simple practical decision for the sake of avoiding waste, nowadays it’s an important decision. Opting for reclaimed wood means less waste and a smaller impact on the environment!

Even better, the material is known for the rough natural look that is often seen in the farmhouse style, which is very appealing to a lot of homeowners. Basically, you can create a lot of furniture and details in your home, making it feel less industrialized and more rustic.

But what can you do with reclaimed wood? Let’s find out!

“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do." – Kobe Bryant

What is reclaimed wood?

Reclaimed wood or lumber is basically wood that has been reclaimed and processed for further use on other projects. They can come from dismantled furniture and houses, for example, with nails and all.

The processing is what gets rid of the nails and other unwanted debris, making the wood fit for reusing. This is also why it’s so important to acquire reclaimed wood from a reliable source!

1. Reclaimed wood flooring

Reclaimed wood can also be used for flooring. Source: Northern Wide
Reclaimed wood can also be used for flooring. Source: Northern Wide

Let’s start by breaking the myth that reclaimed wood can only be used for furniture. The material can very well be used for flooring as well, creating a dramatic and contrasting look that won’t go unnoticed.

If you don’t want to make such a big commitment, you can always use it in a smaller room, such as the mudroom. Usually a small enough room that remaking the floor isn’t too complicated, but most importantly, it’s right by the entrance of your home where the reclaimed wood will make for a lovely first impression.

Give your new flooring a proper refinish and it will last for years to come!

2. Headboard

Headboards are fairly easy to build. Source: Decoratorist
Headboards are fairly easy to build. Source: Decoratorist

Building a headboard with reclaimed wood is fairly easy and looks fantastic, which is why this is such a common project. A headboard made in rustic wood gives it a log cabin look that’s cozy and welcoming, perfect for the bedroom.

Besides, the design above is quite simple, but you can surely make it more refined and get incredible results. Be sure to contact a local carpenter for more info!

3. Farmhouse table

A dining table made of reclaimed wood. Source: Cherished Bliss
A dining table made of reclaimed wood. Source: Cherished Bliss

With either the help of a professional carpenter or a good deal of DIY expertise, you can turn some reclaimed wood into a rustic dinner table. This is why opting for reclaimed wood is such an environment-friendly idea: you’re using material that would otherwise go to waste to acquire new and beautiful furniture!

4. Rustic kitchen island

Kitchen islands are extremely useful. Source: Home Talk
Kitchen islands are extremely useful. Source: Home Talk

Kitchens islands are more or less the kind of thing you don’t miss when you don’t have one, but once you do you can’t live without it. And while they can be expensive when planning an entire kitchen makeover, building a simple island out of reclaimed wood is much simpler. 

An easy project that will greatly improve the quality of life in your home cooking!

5. Tub table

A tub table for relaxing after a long day. Source: Knick of Time
A tub table for relaxing after a long day. Source: Knick of Time

Perhaps the simplest reclaimed wood DIY project on this entire list, but one that makes for an improvement most people don’t own. There’s nothing better than relaxing on the tub after a long day, but we can make that even better with a simple table.

Use to light a candle, read a book, perhaps sip a glass of wine, or hey, some people will go as far as to watch an episode of their favorite series on an iPad. This is your moment, make the most of it!

6. Simple planter

Planters are great for beginners in DIY. Source: Home Crux
Planters are great for beginners in DIY. Source: Home Crux

A few cut planks of wood and nails – that’s all it takes to build this awesome DIY planter for your home. You’re free to display the natural look of wood, but also to paint and customize it to your liking.

As for the plants themselves, succulents are an easy choice for being low-maintenance and never growing large, making them perfect for indoor planters. If you want to know more about indoor plants, check out our beginner’s guide on indoor plant care.

7. Office desk

An office desk made of reclaimed wood. Source: An Oregon Cottage
An office desk made of reclaimed wood. Source: An Oregon Cottage

Many homeowners have been working from home during this pandemic and haven’t had either the time or the money to invest in a proper office. If you manage to get your hands on some reclaimed wood, an office desk is totally an option now.

Found the perfect idea to use your reclaimed wood? Get free quotes from local carpenters today and start building!


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