Earlier this week I was writing an article for Designer Monthly about reclaiming and recycling. Part of my reaserch delved into the very good works of Build it Green! NYC, a warehouse store that sells reclaimed and surplus building materials at a mere fraction of their original cost. I am a fan of old things in general - I come from one of those families for which “antiquing” is a verb - but B.I.G takes it to a new level. It’s dusty and dirty and downright delightful.

Each item amongst the stacks of old doors, palettes of ceramic tiles, and boxes of hardware is a true gem, but B.I.G also carries large items such as mantles and furniture and, best of all, old cast-iron and porcelain sinks and tubs.

Our last apartment had a deep, claw-foot bathtub and it was such a luxury. These built-to-last antiques are charming and sturdy, and add a certain elegance to the oft-neglected bathroom. They can be refinished and last for generations.

These were at B.I.G recently, but I doubt they are still there. No worries; such sinks and tubs turn up frequently at salvage shops, and all they need is a little TLC in order to shine once more in your home.