Renew & Repurpose

A creative and sustainable skills development project. Renew & Repurpose provides free, practical workshops for people on low income or currently not in work, aimed at upskilling participants in furniture restoration and refurbishment.

Through supportive sessions, participants are invited to learn new skills and techniques in furniture repair and restoration, transforming old items into beautiful, usable pieces. Sessions offer opportunities to meet new people, engage in creative activities, and contribute positively to the community by reducing waste and supporting those experiencing furniture poverty.

Participants explore various aspects of furniture restoration, including assessing furniture for repairs, surface preparation, finishing, staining, and painting ensuring a hands-on, impactful learning experience.

Our project partners include Shabitat/Magpie who donate broken furniture, The Wood Store, and Brighton and Hove Seniors Housing

Renew, Repurpose is designed to address issues such as waste reduction, furniture poverty, isolation, and unemployment in Brighton & Hove. By providing a unique, inclusive makerspace, participants not only develop valuable skills but also gain confidence and a sense of pride from contributing to their community. The project promotes sustainable practices and supports the circular economy by repurposing unwanted furniture. All furniture restored at the end of the project is donated to local projects supporting people experiencing furniture poverty.

“I have loved this course and don't want it to end.... I love the sense of achievement on completing a project. I would love to do a follow-on course and would recommend the course to anyone with mental health problems.”

Renew & Repurpose Participant
IMG 8126 2 20240610 Renew and Restore Fabrica HR 128 Renew and Restore

Fabrica at Home

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