Posted On: October 15th 2026, 01:00 pm
What do a pile of pre-loved clothes and an abandoned public restroom have in common? Myles Smutney sees potential in both.
As the founder of
@thefreestoreproject, Myles has spent years turning unwanted items into shared resources and everyday exchanges into opportunities for community connection. Now, she’s imagining a new life for a forgotten Lower East Side building, one that could become a home for local arts, culture, and community.
Our latest Leading Ladies feature, “From Forgotten to Found”, explores Myles’s vision for a New York City where overlooked spaces and resources can bring people together in unexpected ways.
Get to know Myles and the work she’s building. Link in bio to read ☺️