Urban Archaeology

This New York store sells both unique high-end salvage furniture and reproduction fittings.

It is a great place to visit if you're seeking something distinctive for the home or you're just interested in taking a look at the astonishing architectural elements that have been saved from the scrap heap and given a new lease of life.

Urban Archaeology was founded by Gil Shapiro who opened his his first store in 1978. The company soon began reproducing pieces and creating its own lines as well as continuing to sell salvaged furniture and architectural objects.

In 1997 interior designer Judith Stockman joined the company and the business also moved to the six-storey building in Tribeca where it remains today.

It now has its own team of craftsmen - including ironworkers, finishers and pattern and mould makers - making it one of only a handful of manufacturing companies left in downtown Manhattan.

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Gil Shapiro's Urban Archaeology rescues architectural fittings from the scrap heap and gives them a new lease of life.