Had the pleasure of attending Handmade: The Western North Carolina Craft, Architecture & Design Expo. The basic tenet underscores how to incorporate craftsmen into the design and architecture process. This is not a new concept, however, post-Industrial Age “off-the-shelf” became the norm for finishing touches in the building process. This expo exemplifies how to introduce well-made, handcrafted items into our homes. The “tool kit” (a booklet) provided attendees a wealth of information on how to achieve this, citing that price is often comparable to ready made items with the added benefit that the artist is local and can better serve you. The tool kit lists specifics on how and where to incorporate items in your house:

Clay – sinks, tile, knobs/handles, tableware, wall decor, lamps/lighting, accessories

Fiber – wall hangings, table/bed linens, pillows, baskets, draperies, quilts

Glass – stained glass, lighting, glassware, wall decor, accessories

Metal – railings, gates, fireplace screens/andirons, lighting, furniture, hardware, shelving, wall decor

Wood – built-in cabinetry, mantles, furniture, accessories.

Loved this poured concrete tub and sink, and the whole look of this bathroom (cute kids courtesy of concrete artist):

This hand-carved desk would be equally at home in a modern or traditional setting…

…this company has mastered the art of hiding technology in the home – these photos (or giclees, or whatever you specify) are actually speakers…

…this tile artist took the challenge to create something unique for this fireplace…reminds me of drunken subway tiles…

…original chandelier, custom-made to your specifications…

As if the expo wasn’t inspiring enough, there was also the setting which included this beautiful quilt garden…

…I’m a big fan of the sculptor above who provides a different perspective to this outdoor environment.

This expo experience reaffirms the need to incorporate more of our local craftsmen. It is a good investment in our artists and ultimately, in our homes. It is why I bought my eighty-five year old house. I walked into that house nine years ago and was completely slayed by the intricate plaster work. That molding didn’t come from any assembly line and I have painstakingly restored this house to maintain the original craftsmanship – how many modern-day houses could stand the test of time?