Design Solutions from Bench Dog in Fishtown

Our love affair with reclaimed wood in modern design continues with the folks at Bench Dog Design.

They take discarded lumber from Philadelphia rowhomes and bring it back into action, whether it's used for stairs, tables, benches, or counters. The woodworkers' studio in Fishtown is where the eco-magic happens. The group of architects and designers are responsible for adding unique touches to homes all over the city and even in other states.

An entry on their blog shows their solution for a Fishtown home that lacked the space for a coat closet.  Bench Dog crafted a vestibule with strips of wood, then added antique doorknobs and other salvaged items as hooks. That's neater than any closet I can think of.  The art-as-function principle is well employed here.

It's only fitting that Bench Dog's studio is right across the street from Konrad Square in Fishtown, where weekend flea markets bring neighbors out in search of wares and treasures. The garage is filled with all kinds of  parts and materials. It's hard to imagine that the end product is always a sleek design, but the work is simply amazing.

If you're interested in working salvaged materials into your home design, we suggest you give them a call and see what these eco-urban composers can do for you.

Read more about ways to green your home and green building.