garden-gate headboard

if you live in an area that has an architectural salvage spot, or where old buldings reside, then you may be lucky enough to come across discarded pieces that can be recycled into beautiful furniture. flea markets, yard sales, even roadside pick-up are places to begin. an idea recovered from my martha stewart stash has been on my mind lately, since i adore wrought iron beds. their romance could fit in any type of setting, and if you're like me and like to mix modern and vintage, this is for you too.


here, a garden gate tipped to one side becomes a one-of-a-kind headboard. a trellis, a section of a victorian fence, or even a door would also be good ideas. make sure you clean up the peice by sanding off any rust, applying metal primer from your local hardware store (work outdoors!) and paint your desired color. use wall stud or anchors, home improvement stores are a big help if you describe the find your are looking to hang. the idea is to mount it behind your bed in a way that is pleasing to your eye and your taste. there's something rewarding in taking something that was once loved but cast aside and breathing new life into it. especially when that tranformation takes place in an intimate surrounding like where you lay your head at night.