Salvaged Fixture Makeover | Creating New Beauty
There’s something deeply special about giving new life to pieces that hold history. This salvaged light fixture makeover was such a fun project! From junk to treasure, I turned them into a farmhouse-style accent using elbow grease and creativity. These salvaged light fixtures are a perfect example of how the past can find its way back home, or close to home, and how something once discarded can become a beautiful piece of decor once again.
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When I first came across these old fixtures, they weren’t in my home—they were tucked away in my mother-in-law’s shed. She mentioned they originally came off the old home that still stands behind ours! The thought that these pieces could return to the same area they once illuminated felt almost poetic. I knew right then they deserved another moment to shine and had to bring them home.
From Rusted Fixtures to Timeless Wall Decor
At first glance, these fixtures looked tired and weathered. The metal was dull & dirty, and years of exposure had left behind rust and discoloration. But beneath the patina, I could see potential. The intricate lattice design instantly reminded me of something you might find in an old garden or a French cottage.
I started by cleaning the surfaces to remove rust and debris. First, I used ZEP foaming wall cleaner & then moved on to barkeeper’s friend to really tackle the rust. I’m using what I already have on hand, which is the original powdered version. What I did, is sprinkle some on the lanterns and then used a wet scrub brush to break the rust loose. I’ve used this same product in my home for multiple cleaning jobs, and it never disappoints! I knew I wasn’t going to paint these lanterns as I wanted to preserve the age and uniqueness of them. So cleaning, more cleaning, followed by more cleaning resulted in the look I was going for exactly!
Styling with Intention
Because these fixtures are hollow and open, I decided to use them as wall sconces with a decorative twist. Inside, I added a mix of battery-operated taper candles, faux greenery, and a few old doorknobs that I’ve been collecting. The result is a soft, layered glow that feels both nostalgic and cozy.
Each fixture tells a quiet story. One still has small scratches and dents from years past, but those marks only add to their beauty. Every imperfection reminds me that these pieces have lived a life before mine, and that’s something worth honoring.
The Sentimental Touch
What makes this project extra special is its connection to our home’s history. The fact that these fixtures once hung just steps away from where they now rest gives them a sense of belonging. My mother-in-law’s joy in seeing them displayed again made the whole project even more meaningful. It’s a reminder that DIY isn’t just about saving money or decorating a space, it’s about preserving memories and weaving stories into your home.
Bringing the Past Forward
Upcycling has always been one of my favorite parts of home decor. There’s something so rewarding about rescuing an item and reimagining its purpose. Whether it’s an old shutter turned shelf, a dresser made new again, or in this case, light fixtures reborn as makeshift wall sconces, every project carries a piece of history with it.
These salvaged fixtures have officially found their way back home, hanging in our hallway. Every time I pass by, they remind me to appreciate the beauty in the old and worn, the history of our home and neighboring homes, and the simple joy that comes from creating something beautiful out of something forgotten.
Final Thoughts
This salvaged fixture makeover is more than just a DIY, it’s a full-circle story about cherishing old things and giving them new purpose. Whether you’re transforming a family heirloom or rescuing a thrifted find, remember that every piece has a story waiting to be retold.
If you liked this salvaged light fixture makeover, check out my thrifted pitcher makeover for another easy DIY idea!
