Urban Woods includes Sandy debris in sustainable design initiative

In a collective effort to protect the environment and show a little care for our health and wellbeing, many creative minds turn their attention to sustainable design and try to incorporate as many eco-friendly materials in their works as possible. Urban Wood Goods (UWG), a Chicago-based company, envisions a different future for the tons of damaged lumber litters left behind hurricane Sandy, the second-most expensive storm in U.S. history.

Rather than have the wood from damaged homes, piers and docks burned or tossed into a land fill, the company plans to give it new life transform it into beautiful, modern pieces of furniture that tell a story, including coffee tables, dining tables, benches and more.

“I was particularly struck by the images of the Atlantic City Boardwalk, the largest in the world, and a world- class attraction, seeing all those timbers strewn about was horrific and awe-inspiring,” says Jason True, co-owner of Urban Wood Goods. “It will take a lot of time to rebuild to create new memories for the future citizens of the world to experience the boardwalk. But if those timbers can be repurposed instead of thrown away, we’d love to see the results.”

Proving that good things can come even from destruction, Urban Woods have committed to build their business around sustainability concepts and responsible forestry. Using salvaged old growth reclaimed wood, their furniture is automatically infused with a specific charm, a sort of rustic elegance that can transform even the most inexpressive space into a cozy, welcoming retreat.

The repurposed wood comes from a variety of sources, including the demolition of pre­1920s­ era structures, old buildings in Chicago and timeworn barns from all over the Midwest, and it’s precisely its naturally worn character that makes it so special. Often the wood they use has nail holes, knots, dents, and saw marks that truly make each and every piece unique.

Whether you’re looking for bookshelves, coffee tables, bar stools or a custom project to enhance the looks of your urban loft space, Urban Wood Goods is definitely the place to be.