Here is a great (if not somewhat funky) recycling idea from the Seattle Times newspaper: "An old gas or electric stove can be converted into a sturdy workbench with ready-made storage space in the oven. Start by removing burners, the control panel and electrical cord from the stove. Build a simple top from 3/4-inch-thick plywood. The top should have a border about four inches deep all around and be just large enough to fit over the top of the stove. I have also converted old sink cabinets and kitchen wall cabinets into workbenches by adding a simple top." LINK