Remodeling: Architectural Salvage
Using architectural salvage is a great way to give a room instant character and keep beautiful treasures from ending up in landfills. Not all salvage stores are created equal though.
High end, big city types will clean their wares and reassemble them for a beautiful display. For example a Victorian staircase looks much better assembled but the extra time and effort it took to put it together will cost you. To save a bundle, try places where you bring a pair of gloves and prepare to get dirty.
For an eclectic look, mix it up by:
Using a rough barn floor with a formal mantel.
Placing a stainless steel industrial looking counter in a rustic kitchen.
Installing old wood siding on one wall INSIDE.
Making a kitchen island from old doors.
Building book shelves flanked by a column cut in half from floor to ceiling.