For this week’s Salvaged issue, a favorite from the Remodelista archives:
Architectural salvage can serve as toolkits for self-expression, according to Anthony D’Argenzio of “bespoke creative and design studio” Zio & Sons. He stocks up on vintage building parts, whether drawer pulls or staircase trim, to enliven rooms for clients and himself. He buys his lighter weight inventory, like hardware and lighting parts, from online sources, and he scours estate sales and salvage yards for anything too pricey or bulky to ship. The materials, he explains, can add flavor and storytelling opportunities to any project, and they often cost less than their modern counterparts. And recycling the components keeps them out of landfills.
Among his favorite genres of materials that reward re-users:
1. Reclaimed wood
![“every piece of wood in so many variations tells a story, whether 17](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/anthony-zio-living-room-overview-733x549.jpg)
2. Old sinks
![“they have such beautiful character and patina. if you can find th 18](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/awards/remodelista/1094478/Anthony-Zio_0017-733x549.jpg)
3. Hardware
![\2\20;bronze, iron, copper, brass—they all weather really w 19](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/diani-doornbos-stone-house-8-733x1100.jpg)
4. Architectural elements and furniture
![“try to think outside the box: don’t think of the pieces as 20](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Red-Chair-Hudson-home_bedroom_Marili-Forastieri-733x969.jpg)
5. Lighting
![“vintage glass shades, schoolhouse lights—anything can be c 21](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/diani-doornbos-stone-house-2-733x1027.jpg)
6. Tiles
![“if you can’t find enough to fill out your whole project, u 22](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/awards/remodelista/1094478/Anthony-Zio_0016-733x979.jpg)
7. Marble slabs
![\2\20;marble can be turned into trim around backsplashes, thresholds, do 23](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Red-Chair_Hudson-home_copper_Marili-Forastieri-733x489.jpg)
8. Fireplace mantelpieces
![“mantles can be great for a dead wall in a large room that needs s 24](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/anthony-zio-this-old-hudson-dining-room-733x549.jpg)
9. The unexpected
![“i love using old rope. it develops this rich weathered texture ov 25](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/anthony-zio-this-old-hudson-house-733x978.jpg)
See D’Argenzio’s styling in action:
- House Call: 50 Shades of Weathered White in Hudson, NY, from Zio & Sons
- A Historical Hudson, NY, Home Reimagined (European Antiques Included)
- A 1700s Stone Farmhouse in the Hudson Valley, Discovered via Google
N.B.: This story originally ran on July 21, 2017 and has been updated.
Frequently asked questions
Who are Zio & Sons?
Zio & Sons is a design and branding agency founded by Anthony D’Argenzio in 2013. They specialize in creative consulting, art direction, interior design, and styling.
What is the concept behind sourcing salvage?
Sourcing salvage is the process of finding unique and often vintage pieces to incorporate into your interior design. It adds character and history to a space while promoting sustainability by reusing and repurposing materials.
Why is it important to source salvage?
Sourcing salvage promotes sustainability by reducing waste and preserving materials that may have been discarded. It also adds unique character and history to a space through the use of vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces.
What are some tips for sourcing salvage?
Some tips for sourcing salvage include attending estate sales, flea markets, and auctions, networking with local antique dealers and artisans, searching online marketplaces, and exploring salvage yards. It’s important to have a clear vision of what you’re looking for and to keep an open mind while searching for unique pieces.
How can I incorporate salvage into my interior design?
Salvage can be incorporated into interior design through the use of vintage furniture, salvaged architectural elements, repurposed materials, and unique accessories. These elements add character and history to a space while promoting sustainability through their reuse and repurposing.
What are some of the benefits of incorporating salvage into my interior design?
Incorporating salvage into interior design adds character and history to a space, promotes sustainability by reusing and repurposing materials, and supports local artisans and antique dealers. Additionally, vintage and unique pieces often have a higher quality of craftsmanship and detail than more modern products.
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