Creative Ways To Use Auctioned Restaurant Equipment In Your Home
Restaurant auctions offer an incredible variety of quality equipment at a fraction of the retail price. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, add unique decor, or love the charm of industrial-style furniture, restaurant auctions provide endless possibilities. Here are some creative ideas on how you can bring the durability, utility, and unique aesthetic of restaurant equipment into your home.
Upgrade Your Kitchen with Professional-Grade Appliances
Commercial kitchen appliances are designed for heavy use, meaning they’re often built to last much longer than typical home appliances. Many restaurants auction off high-quality stoves, refrigerators, and ovens that can transform your kitchen into a chef’s paradise. Imagine upgrading to a stainless-steel double-door refrigerator or a commercial-grade range that enhances both function and style in your kitchen.
Tip: Before purchasing, measure your space carefully. Restaurant appliances tend to be larger, so ensure they fit comfortably in your home kitchen.
Transform Stainless Steel Tables into Home Office Desks or Kitchen Islands
Restaurant work tables are usually made of stainless steel, a durable and easy-to-clean material that fits perfectly in modern home decor. These tables can make excellent home office desks, providing a spacious, professional surface to work on. Alternatively, use them as kitchen islands, where their ample surface is ideal for meal prep, cooking, and even dining.
Tip: Add bar stools to turn your stainless-steel table into a casual dining area, or pair it with wood accents to soften the industrial look.
Repurpose Shelving and Storage Units
Restaurants often use heavy-duty metal shelving to store their ingredients and kitchen tools. This type of shelving is perfect for home use, especially if you’re short on storage space. In the kitchen, it can hold pantry items, pots, and pans; in the garage, it’s perfect for organizing tools and equipment; and in the laundry room, it can keep cleaning supplies tidy and accessible.
Tip: For a more polished look, add baskets or decorative bins to the shelves.
Turn Bar Stools into Unique Seating Options
Restaurant auctions often feature sturdy, high-quality bar stools that can add character to any home. Whether they’re sleek and modern, retro, or industrial, bar stools make a fantastic addition to a kitchen breakfast nook, a home bar area, or even a game room.
Tip: Mix and match different styles to create a quirky, eclectic look, or reupholster the cushions for a fresh, personalized touch.
Convert Industrial Lighting Fixtures for a Stylish Look
Commercial kitchens rely on durable, industrial-style lighting fixtures that are both functional and stylish. These lights can make a bold statement in your home, particularly if you’re a fan of industrial or modern decor. Hang a set of pendant lights over your kitchen island, dining area, or home office for an instant style upgrade.
Tip: Be sure to check the wiring before installing. Some commercial fixtures may require minor adjustments to work with home electrical systems.
Use Metal Racks and Rolling Carts for Home Organization
Rolling carts are staples in restaurant kitchens for their mobility and versatile storage capacity. At home, they can be used in countless ways: a bar cart in the living room, a craft cart in the kids’ room, or even a mobile garden center for indoor plants. Metal racks, on the other hand, can keep entryways, closets, and pantries well-organized and clutter-free.
Tip: Add some decorative elements, like plants or small baskets, to make the cart blend seamlessly with your home decor.
Turn Cutting Boards and Butcher Blocks into Serving Trays or Tables
Many restaurants use thick cutting boards or butcher blocks, which are ideal for heavy-duty chopping. At home, these items can serve as rustic cutting boards, charcuterie trays, or even small tabletops for side tables. Their sturdy, natural appearance adds a warm, rustic charm to any space.
Tip: Sand and treat the surface to prevent splinters and stains, making them safe for food use or as tabletops.
Transform Pots, Pans, and Baking Trays into Wall Art or Storage Solutions
Copper, cast iron, and other high-quality cookware items are often available at restaurant auctions. These can be repurposed into wall decor for your kitchen or even as creative storage solutions. Use pot racks to hang skillets and pans, turning them into both functional and decorative items.
Tip: Group items by material or color for a cohesive look that adds visual interest to your kitchen walls.
Repurpose Plates and Serving Platters for Unique Decor
If you come across vintage or uniquely styled plates and serving platters, consider using them for decor rather than as everyday dishes. Mount a collection of plates on a wall as an art piece, or use large serving platters as bases for candle displays or centerpieces on a dining table.
Tip: Mix in decorative chargers or large trays for added texture and color to complete the look.
Add Utility with a Restaurant-Grade Dishwasher
Restaurant dishwashers are designed for fast, efficient cleaning and are often more powerful than residential models. If you have a large household or entertain frequently, a commercial dishwasher can save you a significant amount of time and effort, letting you enjoy your company without spending hours on cleanup.
Tip: Check for compatibility with home plumbing, as commercial dishwashers may require modifications to your system.
Auctioned restaurant equipment is a goldmine for homeowners looking to add functional, durable, and stylish elements to their space. With a little creativity and careful selection, these commercial items can bring a unique flair and professional-grade utility to your home, all while saving you money.