One of my favourite places in Brighton is the Wood Recycling Project. I'm doing up my house at the moment and have been using reclaimed wood as it is cheaper and generally of a better quality than new timber. The volunteer staff are helpful and knowledgeable, and I'm very pleased with my beautiful kitchen worktop made from reclaimed Victorian floor joists.
As well as the made-to-order worktops, the project also produce a range of shelves, tables, chairs, storage containers and ornaments. The simple, unfussy designs compliment the natural curves and shapes in the wood, and can be made to your specifications. Prices are pretty reasonable, starting at £45 for stools and benches and £25 for storage boxes, and each item is a one-off, hand made treasure.
Brighton & Hove Wood Recycling Project is part of a wider network of similar projects, offering recycling services and training for volunteers. There's another brilliant project in Hastings, where designer Stewart Walton has been producing furniture with a contemporary feel. Check out the online shop for the full range including the ex-scaffoldboardicus bird sculptures and Hastings Net Huts bird houses.
I'd love to see a collaboration between the Brighton & Hove Wood Recycling Project and Claire Danthois. I'm sure she'd find inspiration amongst the reclaimed groynes, doors and floorboards!
Sophy Colbert
great post as usual!