Atlanta MADE
Some of the finest homes in the Southeast have commissioned their workβso why arenβt Atlantaβs most sought-after craftsmen and artisans household names? That was the burning question that ultimately compelled Kolo Collectionβs Michelle Larrabee-Martin to launch the retail concept Atlanta MADE.
For 10 years, Larrabee-Martin has worked directly with a handful of local woodworkers, metalsmiths and textile designers for the outdoor furniture company Kolo Collection that she owns with husband Greg, so the interior designerβs appreciation for workmanship, quality materials and microscopic attention is second to none.
“These are talented folksβdoing so much work for Atlantaβs top designersβbut the retail market does not know who they are,” says Larrabee-Martin. As a result, Atlanta MADE is devoted to not only showcasing the tangible wares of Atlantaβs creative class, but also to sharing the stories behind the cityβs woodworkers, furniture designers, metalsmiths, artists and others who are preserving the tradition of crafting by hand.
And whether itβs as elaborate as a custom wood-and-iron bookcase thatβs a collaboration between furniture designer Doug Honabach and metalsmith Charles Calhoun or a more budget-friendly Maggie Hasbrouck print, the appeal of purchasing these artisansβ “ready-to-wear” products (which may also be one-of-a-kind) is bound to carry major street cred with Atlantaβs style-savvy shoppers.
Another plus: the Westside is “a very grab-and-go location,” says Larrabee-Martin. Home to an enviable mix of boutique retailers, top-rated restaurants, galleries and a mini design district, itβs a bona fide destination for young and old, locals and visitors, do-it-yourselfers and tradesman. Atlanta MADE seeks to capitalize on that ever-buzzing energy by encouraging its artisans to host trunk shows, cocktail partiesβor even work on-site on a busy Saturday.
“Telling their stories is the most important part,” Larrabee-Martin emphasizes. With a curator like herself at the helm, itβs a safe bet that these artisans wonβt be Atlantaβs best-kept secrets for long.
1187 Howell Mill Rd., Atlanta 30318. (404) 355-1717; atlantamade.us