UPDATED: Habitat ReStore Celebrates Grand Opening in Farmington Hills

The long-vacant H.A. Smith Lumber Store at 28575 Grand River in Farmington Hills has a new lease on life, thanks to an organization that builds homes for families in need.

Metro Detroit's fourth Habitat for Humanity ReStore kicked off a weekend grand opening celebration Friday, with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce. The store, which sells both new and used household items, will be open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m to 5 p.m. 

ReStores serve Habitat for Humanity's mission of eliminating substandard housing by providing affordable materials for home improvements, promoting and facilitating reuse and recycling of materials and raising funds for the organization's Christian housing ministry. 

During Friday's ribbon cutting ceremony, Farmington Hills Mayor Barry Brickner said the reuse and recycling of materials fits well with the city's record of sustainability and green practices. Brickner also pointed out the business fits well with the Grand River Corridor Improvement Authority's efforts to revitalize the area. 

"This fits right in with what we're trying to do on Grand River," he said. 

The store represents a partnership between Habitat for Humanity Detroit and Habitat for Humanity Oakland County. Detroit executive director Vincent Tilford said that the two agencies will split the store's proceeds. Area residents have supported the store even before it opened, he said. 

Habitat for Humanity director of development Tara Franey said the sales floor displays 70 percent donated items and 30 percent new items. 

"Anything that can be used in a home we will take," she said, adding the store does not take used mattresses. Habitat can also provide deconstruction services for anyone who wants to donate items like cabinets or bathroom fixtures. 

There's a drive-through area for donations, and the organization also offers pick-up services. 

Learn more at metrorestores.org.