New store keeps designer items out of landfill
Published: June 4, 2012
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Local designers Julie Najawicz and Genie Lupo have started a unique partnership that combines eco-consciousness, interior design and bargain shopping.
Items found at the new Re-Use Emporium include gently used, discontinued or liquidated home improvement items that would otherwise end up in the local landfill.
A resident who doesn't want to see the landfill get any bigger, Najawicz said she hopes that her and Lupo's expertise in reusing and redesigning items for the home will help people to recycle more.
Inside the Re-Use Emporium warehouse, which is at Bulk Storage in Bovoni, shoppers can find books with design ideas that correspond to items that can be found on the shelves. With their background in retail, hospitality and residential design, Najawicz and Lupo understand that things take a little more work when you re-use them, and they're happy to help.
Having started several businesses on her own, she knew she wanted a partner to help build a business that specialized in eco-friendly solutions to St. Thomas' energy challenges.
After meeting in a local spin class, Lupo and Najawicz realized their common design and organizing backgrounds could help them in their new venture.
"I couldn't have prayed harder for a more perfect partner," Lupo said.
The partnership worked so well, in fact, that the women's husbands now work together, as well.
Lupo and Najawicz's common interests and relationships with local contractors, residents and designers create a network of unique resources from which to pool their resources.
The two designers say they are well-known and trusted for their expertise and they have clients who simply hand them the keys, tell them "Go for it," and come home to a whole new look.
Lupo and Najawicz said they are committed to inexpensive and affordable pricing to ensure an ever-changing inventory that includes contractor supplies, specialty items, and common household items.
Items can be put on sale for consignment, and consignees can have their proceeds from the sale go to a specific charity.
Lupo and Najawicz said the Re-Use Emporium soon will have a web presence where people can shop the newest arrivals to the store online and have purchases delivered the next day.
Re-Use Emporium is open on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment.
For information, call 777-3873 or visit info@reuseusvi.com.
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