‘Tis the season to be thankful, and many of the local gems surely go above and beyond for their communities. Such is the case of Oxgut Hose Company, who contacted me shortly after I wrote a piece on Union Street’s newest gem, The Mason Jar.

This Bay Area company, masterminded by LauraLe Wunsch uses retired fire hoses from local fire departments. Instead of dumping them at nearby junkyards, a team of local makers manufacture furniture, mats and other gadgets fit for our everyday practical lifestyles.

I spent an afternoon with LauraLe and it turns out we have quite a few things in common — we both picked up and moved across the country in search of new creative opportunities. She started her career in Orlando and of course, Miami was my home prior to the Golden State, so we spent part of the time chatting about our life experiences.

When she told me how Oxgut was born, I was amazed with the creativity that goes to conceptualize these pieces — from the design process to assembling and craftsmanship. All of the pieces are made in Northern California and proceeds from the sales go to the Children’s Burn Foundation.

Wondering where the name comes from? Oxgut honors the first fire hose of Ancient Greece, adding a personal feel to this venture, while salvaging a tradition that means so much to many communities around the country.

“Everything we do is so personal to so many people,” LauraLe explains. “Whatever we can do to personalize it, we’ll do it.”

If you are looking for a special piece this holiday season, look no further. These products are sturdy and will add a touch of history to any room in the home. I am personally very fond of the mats, since they are easy to clean and have a pop of color — I can see it living perfectly at the Alamo Square Pad, and boy oh boy, the tales it represents.

Check out some of the retailers that carry Oxgut Fire Company pieces or you can even purchase online, as they have a beautiful e-commerce site and are pretty active on social media.

Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off

PHOTOS: Sean Dagen Photography for Oxgut Hose