BALLSTON SPA — The shops along Milton Avenue contain a treasure trove of unique pieces at affordable prices. Here, the DIY-er can define their own style with everything from clothing and jewelry to antiques and garden décor. New to the eclectic mix is The Store at Rebuilding Together, which opened Thursday.
“We’re thrilled to be here in Ballston Spa. It fits into the area, and the outpouring of support has been amazing,” said Michelle Larkin, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Saratoga County.
The assortment of gently used furniture, décor, and household items for sale in the bright showroom have all been donated by area residents to help the non-profit group raise funds for the home improvement and revitalization work they do throughout the region.
“Our goal is; the more we can cover our operations costs through the store, the more people we can help in the community,” said Larkin.
Housing should cost no more than 30 percent of a homeowner’s income, but many spend much more. It’s a concern that resonates with many of the local officials and community representatives that were among the approximately 50 people at Thursday’s ribbon cutting.
“The store is something we’ve been talking about since 2003. It’s a big picture idea for a small non-profit,” she said.
Moving into the space at 132 Milton Ave. in January, a group of the organization’s core volunteers worked to tear out the sinks and walls that divided the 6,000 sq. feet when it operated as a hair salon. Pulling up the top layer of flooring revealed the original wood floors below, which have now been refinished and add to the bright, clean, open feel of the main space. A side room currently displays small inexpensive items such as utensils, movies and games. A nook in the back houses tabletop accessories. Everything is artfully staged, and project ideas are provided to inspire shoppers.
“We want to upcycle and give a new life to these things. What we want to do here is really two things; for people to find things they want to buy, and to get ideas. A china cabinet can now be a linen closet, a hutch transformed into an entertainment center,” said Larkin.
They also hope to offer restoration workshops and homeowner training downstairs in the area currently used for storage. The last six months was focused on prepping the main space, however.
“The most challenging part was putting together all the pieces – with signage, marketing, pricing, staging – you’re always remembering one more thing,” said volunteer Jean McLellan. She and her husband Jeff started volunteering with Rebuilding Together 12 years ago.
“It’s neighbors helping neighbors. In the truest sense, it’s giving back to the community,” he said.
The Rebuilding Together Store at 132 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa is open Wednesday-Friday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations are always being accepted and can be dropped Wednesdays and Fridays, or by appointment. For more information email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 518-587-3315.
