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There is quite a variety of art and accessories in your studio – how do you select your items?
I choose things that are unique and special. There are many different manufacturers of “artwork” and
accessories…those items tend to have a sameness to them. They are a bit like the Muzak of the art
world. I search for things that are off the beaten path and that speak to me in some way, through color,
shape or function. I especially like finding local artists and craftspeople who make beautiful things.
Owning a small business can be a struggle, and it is important to me to reach out to local people
whenever I can.
Some time ago, I became involved with a local art group. I have met some wonderful artisans and
have developed some great working relationships with them. That is what it is all about for me – the
relationships. When we know and appreciate the story behind an item, it becomes much more meaningful as we add it to our home.
 Tell us about some of your favorite local artisans…
Take a look at these tables. The designer
creates and builds a variety of items from
reclaimed wood. He started his company
about five years ago when he and his wife
began a major home renovation project
and could not find exactly what they
wanted out in the general marketplace.
After crafting the cabinetry for his home,
he began designing and building furniture
items from wood pallets, barn wood and
from trees that fall in storms.More recently,
through networking with others he has met,
he was able to find a whole barn full of
chestnut wood that had been milled and
saved for years. He is crafting a custom
kitchen for a client of mine with it. So
often, people who use reclaimed wood
produce very rustic pieces more suited
for cabins. These are beautiful, finished looking pieces
that set him apart from the crowd.
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These paintings are done by someone I met through a
local art group. She produces some of the original
pieces you see here in the studio. I love her bold use
of color. I have a number of her paintings here in the
studio, as well as a floor screen she created.
Is there a project that was especially satisfying
for you?
I worked with clients who bought (her) parents’ home.
This home had been the gathering place for all the
extended family members on holidays and birthdays.
We renovated the first floor and added a second story.
In the midst of the renovation work, my client lost
both her mother and sister. It was important for her to
incorporate some type of “tribute” into the house that
would help remind people of all her wonderful family.
I worked with one of my most talented
local tile installers to transform a large
two-sided fireplace in the home. We
covered it with slate and engineered a
water feature, uniting Earth, Fire and
Water as a tribute to her family. We had
never done anything like it before. It is
amazing how relationships forged with
local craftsmen can help you create
amazing things.
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