If you follow me on Twitter, you’ll no doubt have seen that I’m involved in the renovation of a late Georgian house in London right now. Although we’re not at the stage where we’re putting it back together yet, if I was I know where I’d be going for architectural features such as cornices, fireplaces, or radiators. Or else something quite unique, like a bright yellow remote-controlled mine disposal submarine, perhaps. I’d go to the biggest architectural salvage fair in the world – Salvo.
Held every year in the beautiful deer park of Knebworth House in Hertfordshire, over 70 of the best dealers in salvaged architectural materials and antiques, garden antiques, and bygones gather for a weekend of super sales. It’s practical, affordable, and offers the best selection you’ll find anywhere in the country. And it’s green too – my friend Nigel at Antiques Are Green is also a fan, encouraging us to “invest in the future by recycling the past“. Very Cracking Antiques!
Two particular pieces jump out at this year’s fair, which will be held from 24th-26th June. The first is above – a wonderful 1930s Brazilian fridge known as a ‘Geladeira’. Completely restored using scarce vintage Peroba do Campo timber by The Vintage Fridge Company, it captures the mood of the moment in terms of interior design perfectly. It’s a great statement piece that’s warm, welcoming, visually appealing – and practical too.
And I wasn’t joking about the mine disposal submarine either. Visit Trinity Marine, and £1,020 will allow you to add the working submarine below to your home or garden. John, Paul, George and Ringo would be proud………! Think about it!
I sadly won’t be going this time around, but I’m already looking forward to discovering my own dramatic statement piece, or maybe a roll-top bath to relax in after a hard day’s work, at the next event. If you can go, do. Click here to find out more.