What do the Winston-Salem Board of Realtors, local designers and old furniture have in common? Come on, take a guess. No? Can’t think of it? Well then let me help you.

What all of the above have in common is the Habitat ReStore project, an annual event to raise money and put local designers to work. Real estate companies and local designers are paired together to create a room for a Habitat home using old furniture and items found at their local Habitat store. Designers will take tired old chandeliers and paint them to look like new art deco pieces.  Faucets turn into candleholders and bathroom tiles are transformed into beautiful designer coasters.  Taking something worn and creating a fabulous piece of furniture for a child’s bedroom or a new dining room is a wonderful way to make everyone feel good.

How are the real estate agents involved, you may be wondering? They are asked to send out letters to their friends and associates asking them to vote for their designer for a small fee.  All proceeds go to the local Habitat for Humanity.

In our homes, even if we don’t want to admit it, we all have things that are ready for the thrift store. An event like the Habitat ReStore project is the perfect time to contribute. Who knows, maybe as you stroll past the newly designed rooms, you may notice that that old lamp, table, or maybe even that old rug, are being used in a way you never thought possible! Maybe it will inspire you to go back home and restyle some items you have lined up for the next round of disposal.

Did you ever wonder where that that old adage “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure” came from?  Well, we may have just found the answer to that one!

By Angela Kalamaras (Branch Leader – Winston-Salem) – Guest Blogger