Le Recyclage

Instead of using this month’s new trendy paint colour (that everyone else will have) why not do something creative with that feature wall?  Like using vintage posters to create a collage?

When you recycle materials or furniture – whether it’s using them as is or giving them new life with a sand, paint or creative touch you are giving your room not only a more cozy, personal feel, but you’re also giving yourself a more original space -  Something that is one of a kind.  Here are a few more ideas to inspire you.

 I am CRAZY for old reclaimed ceiling tiles.  Here they are used as a finish for a bar in a restaurant found on the rue de Mezieres one block from Saint-Sulpice. 

You can find them in so many interesting colours and in a huge variety of intricate designs.  Historically they were used in Victorian style homes as a cheaper alternative to the intricate plaster work used throughout Europe.  These tiles were usually made of tin and were not only favourable for their look but also because they were fireproof.  Reclaiming used materials such as these tiles is a great environmentally friendly way to decorate your home.

 If you are currently trying to refurbish existing ceiling tiles in your home, you may have some problems finding matching designs.  This may happen if your tile is made with a historical pattern that is no longer in production.  However, don’t despair – you may likely be able to take one of your tiles that is in good condition and create a mould to produce new tiles.

 This is actually my own creation.  I purchased an unfinished wood bar table, painted it white, and then found old post cards from the early 1900`s at Les Puces de St-Ouen, an antique flea market in the north of Paris (these are ACTUALLY used post cards with their notes to friends and families still visible).  I also found a few other cards that were actually part of a display in a clothing store`s window.  When they were done with the display I just asked them if I could have some!  Once I had my full collection of cards I arranged them on the table and used decoupage to adhere them. 

This is something that adds so much fun to my apartment.  It is original and is a GREAT conversation piece when friends visit!

This selection I found on a very quiet street in Le Marais.  The designer has used old drink and vegetable cans to cover the commodes, lamps and mirrors.  This gives these items such character and is also more environmentally friendly than just finishing them in paint.  More items like this can be found at C.S.A.O on Rue Elzevir in the 3rd arondissement or you can check out their website at http://www.csao.fr/

Interior design doesn’t always have to be about having the new fabric collection adorning your living room, or having that new fantastic wallpaper that everyone is raving about.  If you take a little time, get creative, and recycle old materials, you can produce an interior space that I guarantee people will be more impressed by than if you just dropped a fortune recovering all of your furniture.  Happy scrounging!

Is there a particular area of Parisian design that you would like to know more about?  Let me know – leave a comment!