Congratulations to the winners of our 13th Annual ReStore ReUse Contest!
Best in Show – Jen Hyde built a mini greenhouse from reused windows. The wood frame was constructed from scavenged wood, the shelves from deconstructed pallets, and the temporary plastic roof cover was found in a box in the garage. The screws, door handle, and hinges were sourced from the ReStore. “I’m hoping to put on a more permanent roof when I find the right size windows,” says Jen.
Art – Michael Bunch brought Glisso the Snail, a moving lantern in the image of an endangered Noonday Globe Snail, to life using almost entirely recycled objects. Segments of easy-up frames, wheelbarrow tires, cardboard, and parts from children’s strollers formed the chassis, while the body structure was assembled from used tent poles, locally harvested willow whips, and tape. The plastic front bumper of a stroller, steel wire, and Christmas ornaments were combined to form the head. Stretch fabric, sheer panels, paint and dyes were used for the shell and skin.
Furniture & Home Decor – Sarah Osborne converted a used kitchen cabinet into a new, inspired mobile kitchen island. Reclaimed pallet wood was glued, sanded, burnt, stained, and sealed with resin to create the countertop, drop leaves, and drawer. Locking wheels were added to the base for functionality. Finally, the cabinet was finished with a wrap of decorative wallpaper and glass rose knobs to complete the look.
Dwelling – Roger Gauthier built a “Little Free Library” for a local church. The screws, roof shingles, doorknob, plexiglass, and much of the plywood used were all sourced from the ReStore. Additional materials needed to complete the project — paint, door hinges, and more plywood — were purchased from a local hardware store.
Photos of winning entries and all submissions can be seen in this online photo album.
This year marked the first addition of public voting to the ReUse Contest judging process, with the community invited to vote for their favorite projects through our website to determine the winner in each of the three categories.
The Best in Show winner was selected by a panel of judges made up of ReStore staff and volunteers. Entries were judged on replicability of concept; quality of design and execution; clarity of description; and quality of photos. Winners received a gift certificate to the Habitat ReStore.
The judging panel was comprised of:
Kim Klaas – Weaverville ReStore Manager
Mary Savitsky – ReStore Volunteer
Eleanor Walther – ReStore Volunteer