8 Cool Reuses for Old Wine Barrels

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A typical oak wine barrel can only be used in production for about five years, according to sustainably-minded home furnishings company Native Trails. Rather than toss the old barrels in the landfills, many artists and companies have found new uses for the vessel’s high-quality, wine-stained wood. From planters and pet beds to flooring and furniture, we’ve rounded up eight unique products that upcycle this waste material and prevent virgin timber from being harvested.

Homepage image: Flickr/quinet

1. Wine rack

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Photo: Barrel Designs

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What better way for a wine lover to display his or her favorite bottles with a rack made from recycled wine barrels?

Barrel Designs’ countertop wine rack holds six bottles and is made from the staves of oak wine barrels – the individual wood strips that form the sides of the barrel.

The Texas-based company offers a range of handmade products made from retired wine barrels, including tables, chairs, barstools and entertaining accessories.

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