Spirit of Salvage Collections – UK

The Spirit of Salvage: UK’s Thriving Reclamation Scene

The UK salvage scene is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, with collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts embracing the beauty and sustainability of reclaimed materials. From Victorian window shutters to mid-century display cases, the demand for salvaged treasures has never been higher. We’re excited to share insights from the UK’s most passionate salvage experts and showcase some extraordinary finds that have recently passed through our doors at On The Square Emporium.

The Lockdown Collection Boom

Many people started collections while in lockdown and, as a result, needed cabinets to store their newfound treasures. At On The Square Emporium, we’ve seen particular interest in Cadbury’s chocolate display cases and Globe Wernicke bookcases – they’re selling like hotcakes! These pieces offer both practical storage and a wonderful conversation starter, combining function with fascinating history.

Featured: Salvaged Norfolk’s Unique Creations

Aaron and Zoe Lawn from Salvaged Norfolk are transforming weather-beaten timber into stunning homeware pieces. “It’s the character in salvaged timber that we love,” says Aaron. “Our pieces have a beautiful weather-beaten, aged quality to them.” Their range includes:

• Test-tube vases in various sizes and colours (their most popular item!)
• Wax melt burners crafted using vintage spoons
• Rustic tea-light holders
• Handmade coat hooks with character
• Charming bird feeders
• Practical boot removers
• Decorative wooden houses
• Traditional wooden garden games

Aaron shares his passion: “I love seeing people’s reactions to something I’ve spent time designing, sourcing materials for and creating. That makes all the long hours in the workshop worthwhile!”

Most Wanted: Reclaimed Window Shutters

Reclaimed window shutters are currently one of the most sought-after salvage items, bringing instant character, colour and European charm to any space. Evocative of French countryside homes, these versatile pieces can transform your interior in countless ways.

Creative Uses for Vintage Shutters

According to specialists at Reginald Ballum antiques: “They can be hung very easily as window shutters and if they need modifying, resizing or different hinges, any competent carpenter can help.”

Current Shutter Stock & Pricing Guide

Salvage Showcase: Vintage Baker’s Rack

One of our standout pieces is a brilliant vintage baker’s rack from the 1950s-60s, sourced by Ben Southgate. Originally used in commercial bakeries, this versatile piece (priced at £525) offers endless styling possibilities:

Styling Ideas for Your Baker’s Rack

In the Kitchen:

• Display colourful vintage crockery collections
• Store dried goods, baking supplies, and preserves
• Create a coffee or tea station
• Showcase cookbooks and kitchen linens

Around the Home:

• Study/Office: Magazine storage and filing system
• Hallway: Organise post, keys, and everyday essentials
• Bedroom: Folded knitwear, bedding, or shoe collection
• Bathroom: Towels, toiletries, and vintage apothecary bottles

Spotlight: Wells Reclamation – A Somerset Treasure Trove

Emma Smith from Wells Reclamation describes their five-acre site as “totally mind-blowing!” Established in 1985 by Haydn and Margaret Davies, this family business has grown from a small railway shed operation to one of the UK’s most comprehensive salvage yards.

What You’ll Find at Wells

• Architectural antiques from around the world
• Vintage and antique furniture
• Natural stone and reclaimed timber flooring
• Freestanding solid wood farmhouse kitchens
• Large garden statuary and features
• Reclaimed fireplaces
• A decommissioned 1958 Bloodhound missile (not for sale – just part of the quirky décor!)

Wells Reclamation supplies everyone from interior designers and film companies to Glastonbury Festival and international hotels. They’ve recently provided stone flooring to Singapore hotels and terracotta pots to The Newt in Somerset.

Style Tips from the Experts

“Old pine floorboards are great for rustic wall cladding. Customers are now spending so much time at home and in their gardens that reclaimed flooring is proving ideal for building home bars and the ultimate material for ‘man-cave’ construction.”

– Emma Smith, Wells Reclamation

“Reclaimed Indian doors make great headboards or wall cladding”

– Wells Reclamation Style Tip

Why Choose Salvage? The Benefits

Visit On The Square Emporium

Inspired by these salvage stories? Visit us at On The Square Emporium to discover our ever-changing collection of reclaimed treasures. From Globe Wernicke bookcases to vintage display cabinets, architectural salvage to restored furniture, we’re Belfast’s destination for quality salvage and antiques.

Currently in high demand:

• Cadbury’s chocolate display cases
• Globe Wernicke sectional bookcases
• Victorian window shutters
• Vintage baker’s racks
• Reclaimed pine furniture
• Industrial shelving units

Get In Touch

Looking for something specific? Our team can help source particular salvage items for your project. Whether you’re an interior designer, architect, or passionate collector, we’re here to help you find that perfect piece.

Visit us: On The Square Emporium, Belfast
Call: 02890 434290
Email: info@onthesquareemporium.com
Follow us: @on_the_square_emporium_

Featured in Reclaim Magazine – celebrating the people, yards, products and places that make the UK salvage scene thrive.