Big Reuse

Big Reuse in Brooklyn is a treasure trove for sustainable shoppers and home improvement enthusiasts. Located at 1 12th St in the vibrant Gowanus area, this nonprofit thrift store stands out for its impressive selection of reclaimed building materials, furniture, and household items. What makes Big Reuse special is its dual mission of waste reduction and community service—all proceeds support their environmental initiatives and job training programs in New York City. The warehouse-style space offers an authentic Brooklyn shopping adventure, with ever-changing inventory that draws both bargain hunters and eco-conscious decorators looking for unique, character-filled pieces with history. Locals love Big Reuse for its friendly staff who are knowledgeable about sustainable reuse and always ready to help you find the perfect item for your Brooklyn apartment or renovation project.

Store Information

1 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Phone: +1 718-725-8925

Email: justin@bigreuse.org

Website: https://bigreuse.org/

Store Hours

  • Monday: 10AM-6PM
  • Tuesday: 10AM-6PM
  • Wednesday: 10AM-6PM
  • Thursday: 10AM-6PM
  • Friday: 10AM-6PM
  • Saturday: 10AM-6PM
  • Sunday: 10AM-6PM

What They Sell

Big Reuse specializes in salvaged and gently-used building materials that give character to Brooklyn homes—from vintage doors, windows, and hardwood flooring to lighting fixtures, cabinet sets, and bathroom fixtures that simply aren't made anymore. Their furniture section features everything from mid-century modern pieces to industrial storage solutions and one-of-a-kind upcycled items. Beyond the larger items, shoppers can discover household goods, kitchen supplies, hardware, and architectural salvage pieces that add authentic New York character to any space. The inventory constantly rotates, with most items priced at 50-80% below retail, making sustainability affordable for Brooklyn residents.

The Neighborhood

Big Reuse sits in Gowanus, a rapidly evolving Brooklyn neighborhood known for its creative energy and industrial charm. Just steps away from the famous Gowanus Canal and near the bustling corridors of Park Slope, this location offers easy access via the F, G, and R trains. The area has transformed from industrial roots into an eclectic mix of artists' studios, innovative businesses, and great eateries, making it the perfect spot to spend a day browsing for treasures and exploring local Brooklyn culture.

Parking

Street parking is available along 12th Street and nearby blocks in Gowanus, though it can get competitive during peak weekend hours. The industrial nature of the neighborhood means there are typically more parking options than in denser parts of Brooklyn. Many shoppers take advantage of the nearby public parking lots on 9th Street if they're planning a longer visit or picking up larger furniture items. For those using public transportation, the F/G subway at 4th Ave-9th St station is just a short walk away.

Shopping Tips

  • Join the Big Reuse email list for advance notice of special sales and newly arrived high-demand items like vintage appliances or architectural salvage.
  • Bring measurements and photos of your space when shopping for furniture or building materials to ensure proper fit.
  • Don't hesitate to make an offer on larger items that have been in the store awhile – the staff has some flexibility on pricing for items that need to move.
  • If you're donating items, call ahead to confirm they're currently accepting your category of goods, as space constraints sometimes limit intake.
  • Check their website before visiting for current COVID protocols and to see if any special promotions are happening that week.

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