II spent last week in Portland at my sister’s house while my son and nephew were at camp. I always enjoy returning to Portland because it means time for antique shopping at some of my favorite stores. I brought home a few fun finds, but the one that thrilled me most was an old, rickety green ladder.
Ladders seem to be everywhere these days, repurposed as towel racks, pot holders, plant stands, and decorative accents both indoors and out. I entertained lots of ideas for mine — everything from a blanket ladder to a hanging plant holder — but ultimately I decided to mount it on the wall. It’s not a tall ladder, more like a step stool, but when opened it takes up a surprising amount of floor space, so hanging it on the wall was the perfect solution for my small house.
Moving into a new house has left me craving the character and texture you find in older homes. I miss plaster walls, wooden wainscoting, and original hardwood floors. While I don’t have the time right now for major renovations or carpentry to recreate that vintage feel, bringing in authentic, aged pieces is an easy way to add personality.
This little antique ladder brought a burst of color and a touch of history to the corner — exactly the kind of contrast I love. It also serves as a charming, unexpected way to display small trinkets. Best of all, the paint and distressing were exactly as I found them, so no faux aging or repainting was necessary. It’s always satisfying when a find needs no work to look right in its new home.
I picked up a few other interesting items at thrift stores and HomeGoods while I was away — I’ll share those finds another time.
Do you have an old ladder?
Ladders are versatile pieces that can do much more than help you reach high places. Mounted on a wall, they make attractive displays, add vertical interest, and bring a bit of vintage charm to contemporary interiors. Whether you use one for storage, decoration, or to display small plants and collectibles, an old ladder is an easy, affordable way to introduce texture and history into your home.