A reclaimed wood desk pairs well with rustic, country, shabby chic, or even contemporary decor. The only distinguishing feature of a desk made from reclaimed wood is the origin of the materials. The look of the desk itself depends on the skills of the person making the desk.
However, it can be fun to highlight the wood. Barnwood, for example, has a distinctive patina like no other. If the wood is sourced from a real barn, the surface can be smoothed and the weathered color preserved with a clear finish. Other sources of scrap wood can include wooden pallets, all types of old buildings, musical instruments such as pianos, mill waste, and construction site debris or defects.
Waste wood is often in need. It may have nail holes, knots, or finishes from previous projects. This gives the wood surface character. A light sanding will bring out the grain without removing the deeper dents and nicks. A little stain followed by a clean finish creates a good work surface that has a lot more character than a regular wooden surface.
The desk itself can range from a simple rectangular table or an L-shaped table to a well-designed desk with drawers for accessories or files. It could even be an attractive stand above the desk. With the right type of reclamation, like an old piano or organ, the stand could have a covered shelf or even a roll top for storage. A skilled carpenter, with a little time and ingenuity, can turn all sorts of things into a desk.
With a little thought, reclaimed wood can be transformed into something beautiful. It’s the eco-friendly choice. Reclaiming wood keeps it out of landfill. It shows respect for the trees that were sacrificed to create the original wood. The best part is that it is an opportunity to create a unique desk that is a unique product. Whether the wood comes from a construction site, a demolished structure, wooden pallets, or from an old piano, dresser or other piece of furniture that has been repurposed, it gives the original materials a second life.
