Have you ever wondered what happens to all the dead trees that are cut down in Toronto? Apparently 9000 trees are felled each year from disease, acts of god etc. And although you’ve seen those contracted tree companies trimming your trees and shredding them or giving you the cuts, this accounts for only a portion of wood that is cut down. Hands up, anyone?
Urban Tree Salvage takes some of this wood and makes absolutely gorgeous pieces of furniture with it. They started 6 years ago when very few were making furniture out of reclaimed wood. And still to this day, no one does exactly what they do.
Owned by Sean Gorham, a designer and multi-media artist for over 20 years and his partner Melissa Neist who also has a background in the arts and marketing. They did their research by talking to arborist friends and when they found out that our city trees were just going to waste, this was the catalyst for a recycling project like no other.
Especially now since the global consciousness toward recycling, reducing and reusing is taking on momentum, Melissa said that people are really coming to realize that the IKEA table they bought will only last about 4 years and then they have to buy another one. And the trend is moving toward buying quality and style that lasts forever and buying local. Yeah!!
Urban Tree Salvage is unique because they sell the raw wood, which you can take away and make something with or they will make a piece for you. Their main focus is customized pieces. They sell to homeowners, designers, etc. The best part is that they do everything themselves and they don’t outsource. Quality control is their highest priority. And it really shows in their pieces.
It’s worth the short trip to see their retail space. Not only will you leave with a beautiful piece of furniture but you’ll be educated in the process. Melissa is passionate about wood and will share stories about the wood and teach you new words in the process. I learned one! Ambrosia – which is the beautiful colouring produced by the ambrosia beetle.
Here are pics of the shop:
Check out their shop everyday from 10 – 5 and Saturdays 11- 4. Get directions here.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
flohaus 