HandMade: The Western North Carolina Craft, Architecture & Design Expo
HOME TOURS
Small group guided tours visited private homes to illustrate how local residents have integrated craft into their living environments. Each tour visited four locations, traveling in a 15-passenger van with a guide providing background information on Asheville's unique Arts & Crafts and architectural history and the homes on the tour. Most of the homeowners were on site to share their personal experiences and answer questions. Each tour ran once during both days of the Design Expo in June 2010. Locations included on the tours are described below. Check back to learn about future home tour opportunities.

2010 MORNING TOUR -9:30 - 1:15
Pisgah House, UNC Asheville's new multi-purpose facility, is located on five acres surrounded by forest. Pisgah House serves as the chancellor's residence, as well as the location for meetings, receptions and other events. Completed in early 2010, Pisgah House includes 4,500 square feet of public space and 3,000 square feet of residential space. Designed and built by Hendersonville-based Ken Gaylord Architects/Black Hawk Construction, the house represents a type of architecture called "Blue Ridge Style", reflecting the unique aesthetic of Asheville. It is an inspiring home that incorporates local craft as architectural as well as design elements.

A 1916 Norwood Park craftsman bungalow was renovated in 2005. Architect Jane Mathews and contractor Allen Roderick of Heartwood Renovations skillfully integrated old and new architectural and design elements reflecting the arts and crafts style. The homeowners are avid collectors. Vintage pieces have been artfully complemented by work created by local craftsmen, including stained glass, built in cabinetry, faux finishes, and original Stickley furniture.

Enter the rustic iron gates of Grovewood Gallery and discover a magical experience of art, craft, history, and Old World charm. Stroll the beautifully landscaped sculpture gardens, visit a working artist's studio, and feast your eyes on an expansive collection of fine American craft.

A Reynolds Mountain home constructed in 2007 incorporates architectural elements throughout the home, and has an extensive regional furniture and art collection. With an outstanding view and gardens, the house maximizes its site by integrating outdoor sculpture. The home, and much of the interior, was designed by architect Jim Samsel.

2010 AFTERNOON TOUR - 2:00 - 5:45
A Biltmore Forest 1920's Tudor underwent a renovation and kitchen addition in 2002. Architect Jim Samsel and builder Stewart Coleman brought historic and new elements together to create a dynamic and liveable space. The home demonstrates incorporating contemporary furniture and architectural elements with antiques to create a traditional home with contemporary flair.

A 1902 Montford Queen Anne home was extensively renovated with an addition in 2009 that includes an expanded kitchen, second floor office and utility room, and third floor access with a new stairway. Architect Jane Mathews and contractor Lee Harwell worked closely with the homeowners to retain the Victorian character of the home while improving energy efficiency. The renovation incorporated handcrafted cabinetry in the kitchen, a handmade wood exterior door, built-in furniture, ceramics, and exterior landscape features.

A 1920's cottage was renovated for use as an office in 2003. Conference rooms were furnished with locally crafted furniture, and local artists created exterior handrails, a fire screen, and bookshelves. Designed by architect Jim Samsel, the project was completed by Allen Roderick/Heartwood Renovations. The office demonstrates that handcrafted furniture, architectural elements, and art can combine to create a functional, unique and inviting office space.

Enter the rustic iron gates of Grovewood Gallery and discover a magical experience of art, craft, history, and Old World charm. Stroll the beautifully landscaped sculpture gardens, visit a working artist's studio, and feast your eyes on an expansive collection of fine American craft.