Good News Tues. – May 26th

We’re back with another edition of Good News Tues to spread a little joy from our Habitat family to yours. We’re all in this together. Here’s hoping this brings a little light to your day. 

Salvaging for Good
Over the last week the Deconstruction team from Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore has been salvaging rare architectural items from a soon-to-be razed Lake Drive mansion in Whitefish Bay. The mansion was built in 1928, designed by Richard Phillips, who also designed the American Club in Kohler, WI as well as other homes throughout the Milwaukee area.

The owner generously allowed ReStore’s experienced Deconstruction Services team to salvage everything from beautiful leaded glass windows all the way down to the hand carved banisters of the nearly 100 year old home. Items are for sale to the public at the Wauwatosa ReStore (3015 N 114th) with all proceeds benefiting Milwaukee Habitat’s work to help local families in need of safe, affordable housing. Deconstruction Services Manager, Rich Brost, estimates the team will salvage roughly $15,000 worth of materials from the home.

According to an article by OnMilwaukee’s Bobby Tanzilo, realtor Suzanne Powers had shown the home “to a hundred prospective buyers” but hadn’t received a viable offer. The lower level of the home has extensive mold damage. So, prior to razing the property the owner teamed up with ReStore’s Deconstruction crew to ensure the home’s unique architectural features would be saved. 

Last year alone, Milwaukee Habitat’s Deconstruction Services team salvaged more than $670,000 worth of materials from local homes and business that were being remodeled or demolished. This home is the first project the team completed since Wisconsin’s stay at home order had been enacted in mid-March. The donation is a needed boost to the organization; two of our three Milwaukee County ReStores remain temporarily closed due to the pandemic. 

Individuals can get their hands on these architectural treasures in-store Tuesday through Friday (10am-6pm) and Saturday (10am-4pm) at the Wauwatosa ReStore (3015 N 114th). Folks can also take advantage of curbside pickup by shopping items posted to ReStore’s Facebook page. ReStore is limiting the number of people in-store at a time and requiring customers to wear masks.