Cast Iron
This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Cast Iron Sink & Clawfoot Tub
Discovering Antique Treasures: Our Cast Iron Sink and Clawfoot Bathtub
My wonderful tub!
There’s something magical about integrating antique treasures into a modern home, especially one as unique as our log home. Last summer we stumbled upon two incredible finds: a beautiful cast iron sink and a charming clawfoot bathtub. These pieces not only add character and history to our home but also tell a story of craftsmanship and timeless beauty.
The Hunt for Antiques The search for these treasures was an adventure in itself. I scoured antique shops, flea markets, and online marketplaces, always on the lookout for items that spoke to us. The excitement of the hunt made each discovery all the more rewarding. One particularly memorable trip took us to a charming home in the country where we found the cast iron sink. The clawfoot bathtub, on the other hand, was a serendipitous find on Facebook Marketplace.
Cast iron sink installed
The Antique Cast Iron Sink Our cast iron sink is a piece of history. Made in the early 20th century, it features beautifully aged porcelain and classic design elements that blend seamlessly with our rustic aesthetic. I chose this sink because of its durability and timeless appeal. I just love the sideboard. It’s a perfect fit for our kitchen, providing both functionality and a nostalgic touch that takes us back to simpler times. It even had a convenient opening for a sprayer. I chose a black faucet that looks like it was made for the sink. This was not one of my husband’s favorite projects. The sink is very, very heavy and he had to lift it multiple times during the installation.
Faucet and sprayer
The Clawfoot Bathtub The clawfoot bathtub is a true gem. Known for their elegance and comfort, clawfoot tubs have been a symbol of luxury since the late 19th century. This particular tub, with its intricately detailed feet and deep basin, promised to be the centerpiece of our bathroom. Finding it was a stroke of luck, and we couldn’t wait to give it a new home in our log cabin. Finding the faucet was much more difficult, but Amazon doesn’t disappoint and I found one complete with handheld sprayer.
Faucet, sprayer, supply lines and drain in came in one kit. Amazon Link to kit.
Restoration and Installation Restoring and installing these antiques was a challenge. The sink required some cleaning and minor repairs, but its robust construction meant it was still in excellent condition. The clawfoot bathtub, however, needed a bit more work. We had to re-paint the exterior and legs. It took a great deal of elbow grease to bring the porcelain back to sparkling. Installing these pieces in our home was a challenge, but with the aid of the tractor my husband got the tub onto the porch. He and our plumber managed to get it into the bathroom. My favorite plumber was up to the challenge and had them hooked up and working. For those looking to add a touch of history to their homes, incorporating antiques like these is a wonderful idea. Here are a few tips:
Look for Quality: Ensure the pieces are structurally sound and made from durable materials. This is especially true for sinks and tubs since they get heavy use.
Consider Restoration: Many antiques can be restored to their former glory with a bit of effort. Sinks and tubs can be re-glazed if you love the piece but it is not in great shape.
Blend Old and New: Mix antiques with modern elements to create a unique, eclectic style.
Think Sustainably: Using antique pieces is an eco-friendly choice, reducing the demand for new resources. Thinking sustainable was one of our goals with our home.
Conclusion Our journey to find and restore these antique pieces has been incredibly rewarding. They add a unique charm to our log home and remind us of the beauty of craftsmanship and history. We invite you to join us in celebrating the past by incorporating antique treasures into your own homes. Have you found any special antiques that transformed your living space? We’d love to hear your stories!
