Beautiful Projects You Can Build with Reclaimed Lumber
Ideas for Adding Character and History to Your Home
Reclaimed lumber isn’t just for large-scale renovations or high-end architectural builds. It’s also the perfect material for projects that add warmth, character, and a touch of history to your space—especially here in Ashe County and the North Carolina High Country, where mountain style and craftsmanship go hand in hand.
Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just getting started, reclaimed wood brings beauty and authenticity to small-scale projects. At Mile High Lumber Co, we love seeing what our customers create—and we're sharing some of our favorite reclaimed wood project ideas.
1. Sliding Barn Doors
Nothing says “mountain home” like a handcrafted barn door. Reclaimed wood barn doors are not only functional but also make a bold design statement. Use rustic boards with natural texture and patina for an authentic, timeworn look.
Tip: Add black steel hardware for contrast and a modern-rustic finish.
2. Cornhole Boards (Yes, Really!)
Want to take your backyard gatherings to the next level? Build a set of custom cornhole boards using reclaimed wood. The grain and color variations make each set completely unique—and they’ll be the talk of your next cookout or tailgate.
Bonus: Personalize them with a branded stamp or wood-burned design.
3. Reclaimed Wood Dressers & Bed Frames
Give your bedroom a warm, grounded feel with a dresser, headboard, or full bed frame made from reclaimed lumber. Wormy chestnut or heart pine are perfect choices for furniture that tells a story.
Pro Tip: Mix reclaimed wood with clean modern lines for a refined rustic aesthetic.
4. Accent Walls & Ceilings
Transform any room with a reclaimed wood accent wall or ceiling paneling. It’s one of the easiest ways to create a cozy, cabin-like vibe while highlighting the natural beauty of the materials.
Perfect for: Bedrooms, entryways, stairwells, or behind fireplaces.
5. Fireplace Surrounds
Reclaimed beams and planks make excellent mantels or full surrounds for your fireplace. Whether you’re going for rugged Appalachian charm or simple farmhouse elegance, reclaimed wood brings unmatched warmth to your living space.
Tip: Pair with stone or tile for extra visual depth.
6. Flooring with History
While flooring is a bit more advanced than some other projects, many homeowners use reclaimed planks to install their own hardwood floors in smaller spaces like guest rooms, hallways, or offices. The aged patina and durability of old-growth wood make reclaimed flooring both beautiful and built to last.
Why Reclaimed Lumber?
Reclaimed wood adds depth and character you just can’t find in new lumber. Every knot, nail hole, and weathered edge tells a story—often from barns, mills, and homes right here in the High Country. It’s also a sustainable way to build, keeping perfectly usable materials out of landfills and giving them new life.
Where to Start
You don’t have to be a master carpenter to build something beautiful. Whether you’re looking for a single beam or a stack of barnwood planks, Mile High Lumber Co has a rotating stock of reclaimed wood in Ashe County, perfect for projects big and small.
We’re here to help you find the right pieces—and offer advice to make your build successful.
Build Something with a Story
Ready to get started? Visit Mile High Lumber Co to browse our current inventory and find the perfect reclaimed wood for your next project. Let your creativity shine—and bring a piece of history into your home.
