Detroit was home to a thriving automotive industry, and many of the city’s factories and warehouses were built from wood.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Detroit’s history and culture. This has led to a renewed appreciation for the city’s old buildings, as well as a growing movement to repurpose and reclaim the wood from these structures.
What is Timber Repurposing?
Timber repurposing is the process of taking old wood from demolished buildings and using it to create new products. This can include anything from furniture and flooring to art and architectural elements.
Why is Timber Repurposing Important?
There are many reasons why timber repurposing is important. First, it is a sustainable way to use resources. When old wood is repurposed, it is kept out of landfills. Second, it helps to preserve the history of Detroit. By using wood from old buildings, we can keep a piece of the city’s past alive. Third, it supports local businesses. Many of the people who are involved in timber repurposing in Detroit are small business owners.
Local Crafts People Who Repurpose and Reclaim Wood
There are a number of local crafts people in Detroit who are passionate about timber reclaiming/repurposing. Here are a few of them:
- Chris Coleman is the founder of Detroit Salvage. Detroit Salvage is a company that specializes in reclaiming wood from old buildings in Detroit. Coleman and his team have salvaged wood from a variety of buildings, including churches, schools, and factories. They use this wood to create custom furniture, flooring, and other products.
- The Detroit Reclamation Company is another company that specializes in reclaiming wood from old buildings in Detroit. The company uses this wood to create a variety of products, including furniture, flooring, and countertops.
- ReFound Detroit is a non-profit organization that provides job training and employment opportunities for Detroit residents. The organization also operates a salvage yard where it collects wood from old buildings. This wood is then used to create products that are sold at the ReFound Detroit store.
How to Find Timber Repurposed Products
If you are interested in purchasing timber repurposed products, there are a few places you can look.
- Local Stores: Many local stores in Detroit sell repurposed products. You can find these stores by searching online or by visiting your local hardware store.
- Online Retailers: There are a number of online retailers that sell timber repurposed products. You can find these retailers by searching online.
- Etsy: Etsy is a great place to find unique and handcrafted items that include repurposed timber.
Conclusion
Timber repurposing is a great way to use resources sustainably, preserve history, and support local businesses. If you are interested in learning more about timber repurposing in Detroit, I encourage you to do some research online or visit one of the many local businesses that specialize in this craft.
Additional Information
I hope this blog post has given you a better understanding of timber repurposing in Detroit. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
