Why the Fixation on Trash?

CITIBIN got its start in New York City where garages and driveways are practically non-existent. So where do we keep trash? In most cases, right in front of our homes and businesses. In a city where real estate averages $1500 per square foot, and we spend huge sums on interior home improvements, we overlook the untidy trash that flanks the entryway of our homes.  It's a contradictory eyesore, don't you think?

When I was in the market for a trash enclosure, I couldn't find one that was attractive or durable. Custom wooden enclosures seemed to discolor and warp quickly outside. And they looked like miniature barns, out of place in a city neighborhood. Metal enclosures were heavy and tended to rust. Plastic enclosures like Rubbermaid didn't look much better than the trash cans they conceal. 

My hunt for a low-maintenance enclosure that blended in, or even added curb appeal, become somewhat of an obsession. I started taking pictures of trash and enclosures around town and posted them to a Pinterest board, noting the features and materials that I wanted in an enclosure. 

That field research seven years ago is the foundation for what has now become a business. But it all started with observation and a belief that there had to be a better way. If you're in the market for a trash enclosure, you might do field research of your own. I guarantee you that your eyes will be opened to how horrible unconcealed garbage is, and how few good solutions there are on the market to hide it.

I still have a trash pinning hobby. Join me? You can share what you find with the tag #letstalktrash on Instagram or Twitter, or share in the comments section here. Shop CITIBIN