Here at Inhabitat we love projects that combine modern design with rustic details. So when we spotted these Barn Loft Tables by The Steel Fork, we couldn’t help but be enamored by their simple yet refined aesthetic. Each table has been individually built to order with a folded recycled steel base and topped off with wood beam that was rescued from a demolished barn in Pennsylvania. Each piece of material has been cut to create several interesting angles, and a clear coating has been applied to give each piece a shiny finish. Whether placed to the side or set in center, these tables make a great addition to anyinterior space.
National Geographic did a report on this phenomenon… There was a movement to try to rescue countryside barns by painting and leasing signage. Many barns are worth more as spare parts than any agricultural function, particularly in this economy. Is this a sustainable practice? Why not. A wooden building only has a limited lifespan, and it will eventually fall to the ground even with the best care. Caved in barns are spectacular for photography, but usually the timber frame would still have served a use. Artisans that recycle such resources, like the Steel Fork, are definitely a worthy find.