Salvage Secrets: Transforming Reclaimed Materials into Design Concepts

by Joanne Palmisano, Susan Teare (Photographer)

A striking how-to guide and four-color visual tour presenting design possibilities using a range of salvaged materials. Sustainability and conservation are buzzwords in the construction and renovation of homes today. It's therefore no surprise that "salvage design"―reusing old building materials and other types of recycled goods―is becoming a popular technique, both for its environmentally friendly functionality and for its unique design aesthetic.
Here, award-winning designer Joanne Palmisano presents an inspiring, practical guide that is also a striking visual tour of the full range of interior design possibilities incorporating salvaged materials. From using recycled wood as vintage flooring or accent beams to reclaiming stone as a kitchen island or fitting salvaged tiles into a bathroom backsplash, the book covers a range of materials and design concepts for different rooms and supplies technical information about what to keep in mind (size, shape, color, structural needs, etc.), how to use the salvaged materials most effectively, and where to go to find them.

For more information, check out the Salvage Secrets to explore the online world of all things salvaged, recycled, upcycled, vintage and reclaimed. 200 full-color photographs and 15 black-and-white drawings

Genres: Nonfiction, Design, Art, Adult, Interior Design

256 pages, Hardcover

First published September 12, 2011

Reviews

[Bridgette Guerzon Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, want to own it. This is not a how to book but more about rethinking materials. Photos are great and the homes featured are inspiring. Lots of great info on materials and what to consider and what precautions to take.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great how to book with gorgeous photos on using salvaged materials in a new build or remodel. Eye opening.

[Harley Gee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book even though I did not read much of it. But the pictures!! The aesthetic throughout the book demonstrates tasteful and vibrant design around reused sinks, counter tops, tile and a bunch of stuff one might stumble upon. For me, this book is memorable for the wonderful pictures showing finished examples.

[Monica Monsma · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book doesn't contain much "how to" advice. It's more about the philosophy of salvage and ideas to consider when building. I am looking for more detailed information about restoring old wood, not just great places to use it. The photos are wonderful.

[Miki · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nice idea but I can't see the average person doing any of this.

[Noëlibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceedingly helpful list of resources in the back! Lovely decorator porn throughout!

[Mary Cartledgehayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd have appreciated this book a lot more if I'd got my hands on it before Pinterest came into the world. I've seen thousands of salvage secrets roaming its boards, and so this book seems tame.

[Trish · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is neat because you can see how beautiful repurposed materials can be.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

love this book and its repurpose