From Trash to Splash

Dumpster diving takes on new meaning as a New York-based design firm reinvents vacant lots as mini-resorts by converting old trash bins into swimming pools.

1 minute read

July 22, 2009, 1:00 PM PDT

By Judy Chang

"'The nation's littered with these empty shopping centers, and they're sadly becoming this country's legacy,' said [Macro Sea president David] Belt. 'We're just looking to take these buildings that were made for a standard purpose and jazz them up a bit. Make them more exciting.'"

"'I can tell you that it's a great urban contribution,' said [architect Jonathan] Marvel. 'The Dumpsters will get recycled back into use, the water will be used to irrigate the plants in the area, and the tarps that are lining the Dumpsters will be used for construction sites. It's a project that really walks the walk in terms of recycling its components and repurposing them.'"

Thanks to Jeremy McCann

FULL STORY: Dumpster Pools Create Urban Oases

Tuesday, July 21, 2009 in ABC News

Community / Economic Development New York Strip Malls New York City Adaptive Reuse

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