Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStores Celebrate 30 Years of Home Improvement with a Purpose

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At Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStores, you can support the ever-growing need for affordable housing in Central Texas while finding great deals on unique items for your own home. It’s a win for you and for families in need in your community. This year, the stores that build homes and hope celebrate 30 years in business.

In 1992, Austin Habitat for Humanity launched the nation’s first ReStore, a discount home improvement store and donation center supporting the nonprofit’s work to build strong, stable and self-reliant communities. Selling new and gently used furniture, appliances, building materials and home accessories to the public at a fraction of the retail price, the ReStore became a local staple at its original location on Comal Street. In 2015, the store’s success allowed it to expand from that small, unairconditioned warehouse to its current headquarters on Ben White Boulevard and South First Street. Now, there are two additional ReStore locations in the Austin area and more than 900 across the United States. Austinites are no strangers to trendsetting!

Throughout their 30-year history, Austin Habitat ReStores have seen a wide variety of unique inventory pass through their doors. The ReStores receive items not only from local residents but also from commercial donors and liquidators, so shoppers can find unique pieces during every visit, from an antique dresser to a brand-new midcentury modern couch with its tags still on. SXSW installations, hotels, film sets and even the X Games have donated to the ReStores. “It takes all of us—staff and the community—to make ReStore work,” said Kelly Outlaw, Austin Habitat for Humanity CFOO.

Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStores also provide the opportunity for reusable items to receive a second life instead of heading to the landfill. With changes as simple as a fresh coat of paint or change of hardware (both of which can be found at the ReStores), every item has the potential to transform into something with a totally new look. Over the years, customers have used ReStore materials to create greenhouses, “she sheds” and other outdoor projects, in addition to interior upgrades such as new backsplash or flooring. Local businesses, including restaurants and coffeehouses, have even set up shop using ReStore building materials, furniture and decor.

While the ReStores draw in many eco-conscious shoppers, green practices are also at the heart of store operations. Since 1992, Austin Habitat ReStores have diverted over 40 million pounds of reusable materials from landfills. Additionally, Austin Habitat’s corporate headquarters, which houses the Ben White ReStore, boasts an Austin Energy Green Building four-star rating. Notable green features include solar panels and reuse of 96% of the original structure, a former Chuck E. Cheese, in the renovation. “Austin was truly the perfect place to support America’s first ReStore because of the residents’ commitment to the environment and each other,” said Phyllis Snodgrass, Austin Habitat for Humanity CEO.

This summer, Austin Habitat for Humanity will finish construction on its 516th home, and that accomplishment wouldn’t be possible without those who have shopped, donated or volunteered at an Austin Habitat ReStore over the past 30 years. Austin Habitat extends its sincere gratitude to the community for helping hundreds of local families achieve their dreams of homeownership.

Visit your local ReStore in South Austin, Northwest Austin or San Marcos or learn more at austinhabitat.org/restore.

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