# Recycled Materials Transform Historic Building into Art Hub Flexible furniture made from local waste serves Medina Triennial's sustainable vision. - **Source:** [architecture archives | designboom | architecture & design magazine](https://brifing.si/source/1e716da2-18e6-4704-96a6-818e7860b99f) - **Published:** 2026-07-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/4af65f3f-9c6c-4e45-bf12-bc3bd67be047 ## Historic Building Gets New Purpose Serweta Peck transformed a landmark building along the Erie Canal into the Medina Triennial Hub. Located between Buffalo and Rochester, the space will host artist workshops, gatherings and exhibitions. The project is part of a broader initiative to revitalize rust-belt cities through art. ## Sustainable Material Innovation Furniture was crafted from local materials including 200-year-old oak timbers, wine corks and insulation foam scraps. Developed with SUNY Buffalo students, the 'Objects of Affection' series challenges the disposable culture of biennials. Flaws were repaired using kintsugi philosophy with bio-resin. ## Canal-Inspired Design Details A teal epoxy 'water line' references the Erie Canal's changing levels. The color palette draws from historic postcards, highlighting industrial heritage. Original steel structure, brick walls and tin ceiling were preserved throughout the adaptive reuse project. ## Modular and Functional Furniture Pieces like 'Modulation Stools', 'Twirl Shelving' and 'Terracotta Benches' adapt to diverse needs. PVC sewer pipes became shelf axles, plotter paper tubes transformed into storage units. Each object serves multiple functions within the flexible space. ## Community Engagement and Future Plans The hub will activate from June-September 2026, hosting international artists. Post-triennial, furniture will be auctioned or donated. The project models how sustainable design can be implemented in public spaces through material reuse and collaborative production. ## Reinterpreting Industrial Heritage Medina Triennial Hub contributes to rust-belt city transformations through art. Local material sourcing, community collaboration and circular design principles set new standards for cultural centers. The project bridges industrial past with sustainable future through thoughtful adaptive reuse. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.designboom.com/architecture/reclaimed-oak-cork-cardboard-flexible-furniture-cultural-hub-ny-medina-triennial-hub-serweta-peck/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._