PlanetReuse

Reclaiming "MECCA: The Floor That Made Milwaukee Famous" on ESPN's "30 for 30"

noreply@blogger.com (PlanetReuse) — Tue, 10 Jun 2014 17:12:00 +0000

Over the past 6 years, it has been fun working with designers, contractors and owners at PlanetReuse. Making connections that would otherwise not occur by providing tools and technologies through our network to keep materials out of the landfill is what we do. We work with reclaimed gym flooring, bleachers, lockers, seating, etc. from sports facilities throughout North America. We also work with less glamorous materials like reclaimed turkey barns, warehouses, carpet tile, dated office space materials, cubicles, old brick, and many more ordinary materials.

Learning the story behind the materials is part of the fun, like hearing what happened in structures coming down — what was originally manufactured in old structures, who ate at the restaurant, and in this case, what famous, world-renowned artist painted amazing work on it. So when we had the opportunity to connect a buyer and a seller on a significant project like the Milwaukee Buck’s MECCA floor, we get pretty excited. We worked with Andrew Gorzalski, the eventual buyer of the floor, to confirm through many panel shots and requests that this was the actual floor that was for sale. We worked to draw boxes on a floor image to go along with the actual panel paint colors (see the attached photos). It was a perfect match.

Robert Indiana is an amazing artist and he created a beautiful floor for Milwaukee back in the 50’s. It mesmerized all players and coaches that played in MECCA. Many projects and materials can be parted out to various buyers who all “want a piece” of a certain material, but this was ideal to keep as one masterpiece.

We’d love to see shows on all of the building material reuse projects we work on, to help spread awareness to the 80% of people that don’t even know the reuse industry exists. When director Chris James Thompson, who was working on a piece for ESPN’s "30 for 30” series, approached us, we jumped at the opportunity to tell the story.

On June 11th, look for PlanetReuse on ESPN’s award-winning “30 for 30” documentary series that will tell the story of the MECCA Floor. Our marketplace and social media connections helped connect the buyer and seller.

Here’s a great article about the MECCA floor and film by Doug Russell with 620WTMJ NewsRadio.

Enjoy MECCA!

Material listing on PlanetReuse website

Photo used to confirm exact match of original floor (see red boxes on overall gym floor image)

Another photo used to confirm exact match of original floor

Looking for Reuse Materials for Your Project?

noreply@blogger.com (rlecluyse) — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 14:51:00 +0000

PlanetReuse's network allows those that want to incorporate reuse materials on their project to rely on a central set of tools. Simply fill out our Material Request form to tell us what type of materials you're looking for and we'll connect you to options locally or nationally, based off your timeline and project goals. LEED and LBC projects will benefit from our extensive database of materials and partners to meet your projects certification standards.

Donations Fuel the Reuse Economy

noreply@blogger.com (rlecluyse) — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 13:56:00 +0000

In our last newsletter we featured our FREE national reclaimed material donation coordination forms. Material donations are a foundational component of the reuse economy and through our network of non-profit and for profit reuse centers, we make it easy on all parties. Regardless of the size of your project, commercial or residential, material donations are easy to request and painless to coordinate thanks to our experienced partners, like Habitat for Humanity International.

Material donations can save you money on dumpster and landfill fees, while offering an extended lifespan and re-commerce opportunities for the materials that would have otherwise just gone to waste.

Do you have materials that could be donated or just want to learn more? Click here to see how easy it really is.

Wood You Decorate With Reclaimed Wood?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 22:44:00 +0000

Quick quiz: using reclaimed wood in your DIY projects and home renovations is a good idea because:

A) It's good for your wallet

B) It's good for the environment

C) It looks super hip

D) It's one of the top 10 trends for 2014

E) All of the above

Answer: E. Duh. Using reclaimed wood saves materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill, often at a fraction of the cost of their brand new counterparts. History and charm oozes out of projects that reuse, repurpose and upcycle wood, adding warmth and character to your home. Create a statement wall with pallets or multi-colored beams for a punch of personality.

Ready to hop on the reclaimed wood train? Choo Choo! Scroll through the projects below, wrangle up some materials (check out what's available on PlanetReuse Marketplace) and then get DIYing.

Want even more amazing upcycles, follow us on Pinterest!

Reclaimed wood becomes a dreamy headboard.
How gorgeous is this bookcase, built with reused materials?

Put your feet up with this adorable DIY ottoman.

Love this hip photo organizer. Make it!

Reclaimed wood makes your home cheery and comforting.

These perfectly fantastic coasters start with found wood!
Use pallets to create the most perfect garden walkway.
Need a desk? Upcycle one from a pallet.
Rustic coffee tables are all the rage. Make one from reclaimed wood.
Repurpose wood into a sign that's good enough to EAT off of.

This stunning Anthropologie knockoff starts with a repurposed 2x4.
Multi-colored, reclaimed wood makes a wall that is vibrant and welcoming!
Shine a little light with these DIY wooden wall sconces. Brilliant!
Write on! Make a beautiful desk out of recycled furniture parts.
You'll be "hook"ed on this industrial coat rack. We are.

The ReSpace Competition Is Back & We Are Ridiculously Excited.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 21:39:00 +0000

We are so excited to announce that we've partnered with The ReSpace Competition! Back for its second year, this amazing program focuses on sustainability, asking applicants to design an indoor/outdoor space for Hope House. ReSpace submissions must incorporate reused materials into the design and will allow Hope House to grow their program and further their community-based impacts.

As if that wasn't reason enough to celebrate this event, all proceeds raised go to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Wake County, NorthCarolina.

The winner of the 2012 contest was titled "Light Wall" and was a stunning art piece made from reclaimed wood and materials, which used repurposed glass to create stunning light displays.

The ReSpace competition is open to anyone. Designs from diverse locations, age groups and disciplinary backgrounds are encouraged. Think you have what it takes to be the next ReSpace champion? Prove it! Check out all the application details here. Submissions are due February 20th.

"Design must be thoughtful, deliberate, and inspired at all scales, from the smallest building details to the organization of entire cities. The quality of design is especially important as the scale of the space approaches the scale of its inhabitants—the relationship of light, mass, texture, and warmth to the human experience is immediate and intimate. The use of salvaged or reclaimed materials adds another layer to this experience—a connection to the past and the cycles of time. " - Paul J. Lipchak, AIA, AICP

Head of the Class:PlanetReuse teaches Notre Dame Students about Sustainability

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 22:49:00 +0000

Recently, PlanetReuse was given the chance to partner with students at Notre Dame throughout the Social Entrepreneurship Class. After the semester was over, we caught up with the group to see what they had learned from PlanetReuse as a case study, their thoughts on sustainable business and what was next for this group of bright young kids

PR: So why did you want to partner with PlanetReuse?

ND: PlanetReuse appeared to be a company that truly encompasses the meaning the of social entrepreneurship. The company’s products and services are way interesting way of addressing the problem of wasted construction materials.

PR: Do you hope to go into social enterprise after graduation? How do you think social enterprises will change the landscape of business in the future (if you do)?

ND: One of the team members on the project is currently working a project utilizing business to empower low caste women in India. Social enterprises are the forefront of the next evolution of business. Customers will eventually require all businesses to have a social benefit. In the future, businesses will have to find innovative ways to offer socially beneficial products and services.

PR: What are your thoughts on spreading the mission of social enterprises? How might an organization best use its time and resources to reach your demographic? (Social media, traditional marketing, etc.)

ND: Spreading the mission of social enterprises will be absolutely integral to making larger impacts in the future...The internet is the future of marketing, so obviously utilizing various social media platforms will be very important in establishing positive relationships, and creating internet content that goes “viral” will help to capture attention and increase awareness about a social mission.

Thanks again to Notre Dame for allowing us to partner with such an impressive group of students. It's experiences like this, and people like these, with boundless passion, innovativeness and ingenuity, that make us excited to see what the future has in store for all of us.

Go Fighting Irish!

KC Star: Nathan weighs in on Net Neutrality

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 16:50:00 +0000

PlanetReuse is a web-focused company, using the internet to connect buyers and sellers of reclaimed building materials and bridging the digital divide to make reuse as easy as possible. As net neutrality becomes an issue, the speed at which users can connect to websites may evolve into a larger discussion.

Our own Nathan Benjamin was interviewed recently by the KC Star about the importance of internet to his business. Check out Nathan's thoughts on the subject below, or read the entire piece here.

Inspiration Index: Windows

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 21 Jan 2014 19:39:00 +0000

Have you ever heard somebody say, "you make a better door than a window"? (so rude, we know.) Well, these windows make better tables, mirrors, garden sheds and shelves. Repurposing these paned glass beauties is great for your wallet and even better for the environment!

Read on for a wild walk through the wonderful world of windows. Then put your project pants on, hike up your tool belt and break out a little elbow grease. Make sure your watch is on, because it's time to get DIYing.

For even more ideas, follow us on Pinterest for a plethora of perfectly pleasant projects.

This rustic window is the perfect backdrop for a romantic mantle
Books + window = perfect coffee table
Replace the glass in an old window for a chic mirror
Eat your heart out, Anthropologie! Love this dreamy DIY

Easily create a faux stained glass window with a bit of paint
One resourceful couple made a stunning country retreat completely out of windows!
Let the light shine with this Do it Yourself greenhouse
This mirror lived a previous life as a window. Fantastic!

Use a window as the perfect canvas for your artistic creation!

U-S-A! D-I-Y! Let your flag fly with this patriotic project

Remind everyone of bathroom protocol with this great sign

A reused window becomes a tray with this chevron-styled DIY project

Inspiration Index: Let there be light (fixtures)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 14:07:00 +0000

We've all seen them: sad, dusty, slightly dingy light fixtures. Often missing parts, covered in a thin layer of grime, these once brilliant luminaries seem lackluster and limp. Should we just toss them? Pass them by at our local reuse center or thrift shop? Sigh and think of their former glory days with nostalgia?

Of course not! A quick cleaning, some slight modifications and POW, these light fixtures are good as new (better, some might say!). SHAZAM, a chandelier is repurposed into an earthy planter. WHAM, a pendant light is upcycled into a hip terrarium. ZONKS, a ceiling light is transformed into a tranquil bird feeder. Holy reuse, batman!

Check out these great reuse ideas, then dust off a light fixture and make it something awesome. For more inspiration, follow us on Pinterest. We're super pinners.

Remove the bulb and electric parts. Fill with succulents and sand. Enjoy.
Easily turn a ceiling light into a tranquil bird feeder.
Paint the glass panes of a light fixture for an Anthropologie knockoff mirror.
A glass paneled light makes the perfect hanging planter.
Bring Jurassic Park to your desktop with this luscious terrarium.

Give your pots a hand (or 10!) with help from a chandelier.
A pendant light makes a gorgeous, inexpensive terrarium.

Follow PlanetReuse Marketplace's board Bright ideas for upcycled lighting on Pinterest.

Out With The Old and In With the Old!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 20:50:00 +0000

Happy 2014! As we start another year, we resolve to be more responsible, more mindful, more aware. We aim to make our impact on the earth a little less negative and the impact on our community a little more positive.

Sounds serious, huh? Well, it doesn't have to be! We can do little things that have far reaching, happy consequences for our wallet, the planet and our style. Read on, fellow reusers, for our list of ideas to make this our best year yet!

2014 resolutions:

Bring your own bags. Not just to the grocery store but anywhere that you might be needing to stash your stuff.

Before you buy new, think reuse. Could you find that item second hand? Or use reclaimed or reused materials to make it? We live in a "purchase, use, toss" society, where our tastes change with the season. Let the landfill breathe a little easier by avoiding those big box stores. Plus, the feeling one gets from making something with their own hands is priceless.

When throwing away, look closely at what you're tossing. Could that mason jar be a new pinterest-worthy project? Is there a nonprofit organization that would love those old clothes? How about a reuse center that would gladly take your gently used furniture or appliances?

Give your old stuff a second life by donating it to someone in need.

Rehabbing? Think Reclaimed.
Reclaimed building materials not only cut down on the cost of a rehab job, they add to the charm and history of your home.

Tell your family's story through salvaged barn wood, repurposed brick or upcycled windows. Reclaimed materials can add a look that's vintage, rustic or cozy, and will make your house a place you'll truly call home.

'Tis the Season for Reuse!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 16:48:00 +0000

Christmas is nine days away...officially right around the corner. If you're like us, and the holiday season snuck up on you a bit this year, you may be searching for some really great last minute #DIYs. We've rounded up a bunch of projects that will get you in the holiday mood. Most importantly, they all reuse, repurpose or upcycle items in the process...something that's sure to get you on the "nice" list.

Warning: if you're a grinch, this post may cause your heart to grow three times in size.

Yardstick Reindeer. Noel book decoration. Upcycled feather wreath.

Snow globe from log and glass jar. Reclaimed pallet Christmas sign.

Hollowed out log candleholders. Rustic box decoration.
A window and holiday greens. Cake tins silvery centerpiece.

A repurposed pallet tree. Use book pages to makeover ornaments.
Cabinet door stocking sign. Wine bottle Christmas tree. Pumpkin seed trees.

We knew we'd win him over.

Celebrating the Re-sourceful Brian Alferman

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 20:59:00 +0000

Sometimes your coworkers win really important awards for their outstanding environmental work and you just have to tell the world about it.

PlanetReuse's very own Brian Alferman was recognized by MARC during it's annual Solid Waste Management Awards Ceremony. The highly regarded Mr. Alferman - whose commitment to social change organizations is only slightly better known than his pingpong skills - was honored as the 2013 Individual Supporter. The accolade is presented to someone who has made "exceptional contributions and commitment to the district’s waste reduction and recycling efforts."

We couldn't be prouder to have you as a colleague. Here are a few pictures of the man of the hour.

Brian giving a speech after accepting his award.

The award, made out of recycled glass, of course.

All of this year's Solid Waste Management Award winners.

Brian modeling his newly won award at the office.

Repurpose fixtures & bulbs into brilliant holiday decor!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 14:35:00 +0000

Tis the season...for reuse! The weather turned downright frigid and forced us inside in recent days, causing us to dream up DIY projects to fill our hours while we wait for Old Saint Nick. What better way to celebrate the holiday than making cheerful decorations? Especially if those Christmas-y creations reuse, repurpose or upcycle items in unexpected and awesome ways.

Below is a roundup of delightful DIYs that reuse light fixtures, lanterns and burnt out lightbulbs. It's a torrent of terrific ways to trim your tree and add merriment to your mantle.

Want even more ideas? Check out our Holiday board on Pinterest!

Christmas lights give an outdoor lantern a twinkly, cheerful makeover.

Add ornaments to a repurposed lantern for a table top display.

Half of a pendant light serves as the backdrop for a winter scene.

Add holiday lights and red berries for a perfect christmas light fixture.

Add some merriment to your mantle with multi-colored strand lights.

A wall sconce gets a second life as a christmas decoration.

Double the lanterns, double the Christmas fun!

Create an enlightened tree out of light bulbs

Paint lights then dust with glitter for adorable ornaments.

a light bulb makes the perfect penguin body! Too cute!

Up, up and away with this hot air balloon ornament.

Glue together painted bulbs for a funky, retro decoration

Fill old bulbs with confetti stars for a glimmering, glamorous ornament.

A Thankful Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 15:30:00 +0000

In the days before Thanksgiving, Silicon Prairie News asked us, along with entreprenerus from across the midwest, what we were thankful for. This annual tradition is a great opportunity to pause and count our blessings, and we were delighted to contribute. Read below for a few of the many reasons Nathan is grateful this Thanksgiving season.

Nathan Benjamin, Planet ReUse

My list of reasons to be thankful is large and growing. I'm grateful to go to work every day at a company whose mission I truly believe in, surrounded by a community that encourages and fosters the entrepreneurial spirit. I have incredibly encouraging friends and family and I am lucky enough to be married to a woman who is the most patient, smart, amazing person in the world.

And most importantly, I am so thankful for the delivery of one tiny, perfect baby boy a month ago.

Check out the entire article here.

GreenBuild: The Wonderful Week That Was

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 15:19:00 +0000

Oh, GreenBuild. What a great 3 days it was. There were riveting panels, networking events, interactive sessions, a keynote address by Hilary Clinton and a rousing rockfest led by Bon Jovi.

It was such a pleasure to be able to present, along with our friends from BNIM and Henderson Engineers, on salvaging and reusing materials after natural disasters. It's a topic that has, unfortunately, seen an increase in recent years with the occurrences of powerful superstorms, typhoons, hurricanes and tornados and is important to plan for in the years to come.

We were inspired by the Rebuilding Exchange, whose work with Whole Foods in Chicago resulted in reclaimed materials being beautifully incorporated into the design of the Engine Room.

A major highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Hilary Clinton. She detailed the partnership of the Clinton Foundation and USGBC, and we were particularly impressed by Clinton's philosophy of "greening democracy." We also applaud her ambitious goal of providing a green building in every community in a generation's time.

The Conference was also a platform to launch LEED v4, a major stepping stone for our industry. This new version, according to the USGBC, is "one that offers flexibility for all green building projects, with new market sectors and global best practices built-in." Check out the video below for more details.

The conference was a great opportunity to fortify us for the year ahead. Immersing ourselves in the sea of inspiring mentors, innovative colleagues and brilliant change makers pushes us to continually strive for excellence. It's not always easy trying to change the route of design, construction, demolition and deconstruction into a more sustainable pathway. But after this week, we know we're headed in the right direction.

Bon Jovi just rocking it.

Gobble Up These Thanksgiving Reuse DIYs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Nov 2013 19:24:00 +0000

For me, Thanksgiving is a time to sit back and reflect on how lucky I am for a plethora of blessings, everything from the ordinary (that girl at the cafe gave me an extra cookie!) to the huge (job, house, family). Celebrating the changing season with a big meal surrounded by loved ones puts me in a permanent good mood (and a prolonged food coma), and in the weeks leading up to the big day, you'll find me crafting holiday decorations.

Below I've rounded up several awesome DIY projects that reuse, repurpose and upcycle everyday materials into terribly terrific Turkey Day treats. Because, for us at PlanetReuse, being thankful means using what you've got and stopping to appreciate all the little things along the way.

Gobble Gobble!

wine bottles + paint = a DIY we're thankful for!

Reclaimed wood makes for a great FALL sign

Be ready to rake in the compliments with this DIY project

Repurposed burlap is used to make a cozy, autumnal pillow

This sweet sign is made from upcycled art & chalkboard paint

Put everyone in their place with these wine cork namecards.

These turkey decorations are made with acorns and feathers and are adorable!

Need a pie server? This one is made with a wine glass and a plate. Genius!

A log and candles combine to make a rustic centerpiece

Set sail for Holiday style with this charming namecard DIY

Want even more great DIY ideas? Get on over to Pinterest and follow us!

Top 5 reasons to attend GreenBuild 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 15 Nov 2013 22:25:00 +0000

That’s right, it’s officially time for GreenBuild! Need a little convincing of how great the conference is? We've rounded up 5 reasons not to miss this event.

FIVE: All of your (environmentally friendly) friends will be there.

November 20-22 will find Philadelphia, PA teeming with passionate people concerned with the future of sustainable building. As one of our favorite events of the year, it's a chance to gather like-minded designers, builders, suppliers and other eco enthusiasts. The largest conference of its kind, GreenBuild aims to act as a catalyst for sustainable innovation with industry showcases, networking events and educational speakers.

FOUR: The opportunity to attend the interactive session led by Anne Nicklin, Elise Zelechowski, Michael Ross and David Walsh.

The title of the program is "The Reincarnation of Building Materials" and the discussion will center on providing opportunities to reuse materials in creative and conscientious new ways. If you're at GreenBuild, do yourself a favor catch this session on November 21st at 3:30 in room 122, 100 level. You won't be disappointed.

And if you have a quick 60 seconds to spare, let BMRA know what will be on your mind at GreenBuild.

THREE: See how natural disasters have created a unique opportunity for building material reuse.

Our own Nathan Benjamin, along with Jeremy Knoll of BNIM and Ryan Evans of Henderson Engineers will lead a panel centered on the importance of rescuing, salvaging and repurposing materials in the face of natural disaster. You'll be amazed by the stories of triumph over tragedy and the innovative ways people have found to sustainably rebuild after the storm. Come check it out on November 21st at 8 a.m. in room 118A, 100 level.

TWO: Hillary Clinton is giving the keynote address.

Hear what is sure to be an interesting, inspiring and educational speech by the former First Lady and Secretary of State.

ONE: Bon Jovi will be there. Enough said.

Nike Steps Up To the Plate

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 12 Nov 2013 20:11:00 +0000

It's hard to not be discouraged by the amount of waste that goes into making the stuff we buy, wear, use and eventually get rid of.

Lately though, one company is giving us reason to be hopeful for the future.

When you think of Nike, that iconic swoosh probably comes to mind. Or one of their legions of sponsored athletes, Michael Jordan and LeBron James telling you to Just Do It. Or shoes outfitted with the latest athletic technology, promising to help you run farther, jump higher and play harder. The most popular brand in the sports world is known for many things. But as one of the largest retailers of athletics shoes, gear and equipment, sustainability hasn't always been one of them.

That's why we were so excited to learn Nike is now turning its eye towards a more closed-loop approach to business. Their Considered Design philosophy looks for ways to reduce waste and limit environmental impact through the manufacturing process. The Reuse A Shoe campaign aims to recycle shoes into sports surfaces like basketball courts and running tracks. Their company-wide strides toward lowered impacts on water, labor and waste can be tracked through their site.

Their push to make their built environments more eco-friendly has accelerated in recent years, and they consistently incorporate reclaimed and reused materials into their office buildings, warehouses and storefronts. Their latest move to build a retail space in China completely out of repurposed trash was covered in this great piece by Earth 911.

Oh yeah, and they're still making super rad shoes. Keep it up, Nike.

Write on: Delightful Desks Made From EcoFriendly Materials

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 16:57:00 +0000

A good desk can make all the difference. It's a catalyst for creativity, a push towards productivity, a gentle nudge in the direction of neatness. We've rounded up a collection of DIY desks that use reclaimed building materials in really beautiful, unexpected ways. These desks aren't just functional (which they are), they're also a surprise in stylish sustainability. Lumber, pipes and bolts never looked so good!

So grab a couple power tools, carve out a few hours of time and get your build on. Whether you're using to read, write, craft or create, you'll have a piece of furniture that's sure to be on your (very short) list of favorites.

Pipes give this desk a sturdy, industrial look.

This funky, functional desk makes use of upcycled organizers.

This table, made with repurposed machine legs is "sew" cute!

Hairpin legs + reclaimed wood = fantastic

Salvaged corbels make for a very "game of thrones" vibe. I dig it.

Book lover? Prove it with a geek chic table desk.

Old doors make the perfect tabletop for a new desk.

Like the bat cave, but for crafters. This hidden desk is so awesome.

Book cases do double duty in this smart desk DIY.

Our nerd hearts are rejoicing over this novel-stacked desk.

Reclaimed materials give this desk a wonderful, farm feel.

By: Sarah Rendo

We're Getting in the Ring!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 21:02:00 +0000

We're excited to announce that we've made it to the semi-finals of the Get in the Ring competition!

The competition is put on by the Erasmus Centre, an organization in the Netherlands that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship and the startup successes.

We are currently in the running for the Get In The Ring: The American Startup Clash, pitting PlanetReuse Marketplace against 8 other companies throughout North America. If chosen, we'll move on to the finals in Rotterdam, where we'll vie for more than $1 million in funding. The Kauffman Foundation is hosting the event as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week and should be a fantastic event.

We're so excited to be competing for such a prestigious prize. We wish the other startups from North America luck, especially another Kansas City startup, EyeVerify. They're doing really amazing things with retina-based technology and they're all around awesome people.

Check out the our video for The American Startup Clash.

Last Minute Halloween DIYs that Reuse, Recycle and Repurpose

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 14:32:00 +0000

Happy Halloween! We're so excited to celebrate with trick-or-treating, an afternoon party and lots (we mean LOTS) of tiny candy bars. If, like us, you tend to wait until the very last minute to make those holiday decorations, fear not! We've rounded up a handful of scarily smart Halloween-themed DIYs that aren't only spookily stylish but also reuse items you have around your house!

Recycled glass bottles are the basis of this bloodsucking decor.

The kids will love this: upcycle TP rolls into fun monsters!

Need a quick costume? Make this Lego Man from 2 cardboard boxes! Awesome!

This adorable haunted house is made from several repurposed shoeboxes.

Reuse toilet paper rolls as candy holder "poppers"

Show trick-or-treaters the way with tin can luminaries.

Leftover wood becomes chic halloween decorations.

Who needs pumpkins when you have milk jugs and christmas lights? Love it!

Warm and Cozy Fall Reuse Projects

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 18:43:00 +0000

Brrrr...here in the midwest, the weather is starting to turn chilly. Which means it's the perfect time to make DIYs that celebrate the holiday and the changing temperatures. Football? Thanksgiving? Knit sweaters? And is there anything better than curling up with a steaming cup of apple cider, the hints of cinnamon wafting up before you even taste the hot, aromatic cider?

Check out our roundup of great DIYs to embrace the changing season (and reuse materials while they're at it). Then get to doing! Want even more inspiration? Follow us on Pinterest for a plethora of promising projects.

This stunning table runner is made with reclaimed wood.

Need a quick centerpiece? Grab some candles, coffee beans and a pot!

Upcycled frame + leaves + ribbon = adorable autumn decor.

Let there be (candle) light! Go on a walk and collect the materials needed for this DIY.

I LOVE this adorable Turkey Day dessert cart. Make one yourself with reused wood!

An old rake is born again as a cheery Fall wreath.

Have an old sweater? Upcycle it into chic leg warmers.

House/Boats

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 17:49:00 +0000

We've all heard of houseboats, the floating ship/home hybrids that ride down a river or bob lazily in a lake. But what about boat houses? Some very enterprising builders have repurposed out-of-commision sloops, steamboats and skiffs into very interesting single family homes.

The result? Aquatic-themed abodes that will amaze and astound you. And while plopping a yacht in the neighborhood might make you a feel like a fish out of water, we have a feeling these upcyclers think their creations are definitely something to "sea."

Follow us on Pinterest for even more inspiration.

Upcycled, overturned boats make adorable sheds!

Loving this landlocked boat-turned-house.

Two boats are better than one house!

A tugboat is recycled into a charming lake house.

A retired boat captain repurposed an old boat into a rustic seaside abode.

Would you believe this vacation hotel used to be an oil rig?

The Apple Jack was lovingly restored by an upcycling pro.

This hotel in thailand uses colorful recycled boats as guest rooms.

A repurposed boat lends its shape to the roof of this tiny house.

Posted by: Sarah Rendo

Awesome, Upcycled, Autumn Adornments

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 Sep 2013 14:35:00 +0000

It's here! FALL! The last few days of summer are slowly slipping away, replaced by crisper air, weekends packed with football and pumpkin-flavored everything (no complaints here). With the changing seasons, we find ourselves itching for a few new pieces of decor, ones that celebrate the morphing trees and declining temperatures. We want something that's economical, meaningful and keeps our impact on the environment at a minimum. What solution is there for this DIY decoration dilemma?

Reuse, of course! Using old materials in brilliant new ways is smart for your style and your wallet. Feast your eyes on the projects below for great ideas that not only repurpose materials, but give your abode the Autumn oomph it needs. Let's get our Fall on, people!

Apply chalkboard paint to an old painting for a scary-sweet sign!

We've got spirit, yes we do! We love this sign and you should too!

Who says decorations are just for inside? An old chair becomes a fancy fall planter!

This wreath is tops (literally!). It's made from upcycled mason jar lids. Awesome.

This cute little drawer becomes an even cuter little centerpiece!

Reused wood makes a statement as a harvest sign.

Extra glass and terracotta pots come together as a chic fall terrarium.

Candlesticks do double duty as pumpkin pedestals!

Get ready to rake in the complements with this DIY project!

pallets + letters + fall foliage = perfection

These upcycled bottles are as sweet as the real thing...minus the calories.

By: Sarah Rendo

The Shipping Container Shuffle

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 13:45:00 +0000

Maybe you've seen them on trains, boats or flatbed trucks. They're hauled across the country and across the world, their square metal bodies easily recognizable. Their utilitarian build isn't the most glamorous, their boxy shape not the most delicate.

Shipping containers.

Probably not the first thing you think of when you're dreaming of your ideal home or office. Maybe not the second, third or fourth either. But several innovative designers have re-imagined these sensible shippers in new and amazing ways. Once just a way to get stuff from point A to point B, these structures are now living exciting second lives as pizza trucks, music stages, starbucks and vacation getaways. Lookout, shipping containers coming through!

Starbucks recently opened a new location in a shipping container

From cargo holder to quaint hideaway

Creative companies use containers as vibrant pop up shops

Containers are stacked on one another for multi-level living

Industrial packaging is repurposed into a pizza kitchen on wheels!

An architect used 12 shipping containers to create a family getaway in Maine

A Canadian community center welcome hut

A container is upcycled into a music stage

A shipping container can be the perfect self-contained store

Posted by: Sarah Rendo