When the renovation began, the existing kitchen cabinets were removed and kept onsite for potential reuse. These cabinets were a little beat up from student use and had outdated doors and drawers. We played with the idea of purchasing all new cabinets that were made from local sustainably harvested wood and did not off-gas; however what would happen to the old cabinets? The most sustainable option is to reuse the old cabinets in the new space and make them beautiful. With the help of Gregory M. Willenkin, a local woodworker, we designed new doors and drawer faces to give an updated, more modern look to the cabinets.
An easy way to update a kitchen is to change the hardware. For our new kitchen, we contacted a local blacksmith, Ryan Stauffer, to create new drawer and door pulls. For material, Ryan is using an abandoned manure spreader that is on site at the Macoskey Center. A prototype has already been forged and it is the very definition of taking an ugly eyesore, like an abandoned manure spreader and turning it into a beautiful, hand made piece of art.
When considering renovations to your home, I ask you to look at what have and think outside the box. What undesirable item in your home can you repurpose to serve a new function? And remember to always consider local resources; Western Pennsylvania has many great local craftsmen that can assist you in your process while supporting your community at the same time. Please visit our craftsman at their websites:
Gregory M. Willenkin
Custom Woodworking
http://www.gwillenkinwood.com/index.html
Crazypyper Ironworks
Ryan Stauffer
Amy
Design Development Coordinator Graduate Assistant
love the use of the manure spreader for the hardware, just love it. Great job to all!
ReplyDelete