Timeless Bohemian
By Lesley Graham

Carrie and I talked about what I would wear to the Oscars: “something similar to Michelle Williams’s yellow dress, red lips, vintage, glamourous.” I was asked to describe my dream home: “Easy. Restored farmhouse, new retro appliances, exposed beams, fresh cut flowers, big porch with a swing.”

It was so liberating to answer questions based on dreams rather than budgets. I think we all live trapped by what we perceive to be in reach.

As we wove through the questions, some easier to answer than others, I found that I did really know what I like and what I don’t like. I have a pretty firm grasp on my ideals, my personal style, and even my weaknesses. After we hung up the phone I waited to call Carrie back to get my “statement,” Timeless Bohemian. Although sort of a contradiction in itself, I felt she hit the nail on the head. I love things that are classic (read:old-fashioned), but I also love beating to my own drum and having a quirky sense of style. I walk away with a greater understanding of how both sides of my personality can work together and a goal of caring less about what others think!

Text by Liza Graves | Photography by Bridgett Ezzard

Jake and Luke Herring like to refer to their hand crafted furniture as Modern Rustic. This also happens to perfectly describe where they have set up shop in the beautiful rolling hills of Williamson Co, TN, just south of Nashville.

The Herring brothers, both in their 20’s and originally from Oklahoma, had a dream: to open an eco-friendly green construction company and call it Natural Design. They did just that but the downturn in the economy had them searching for ways, outside of construction, to add more green projects to the books. Fate intervened with a chance drive-by of an old barn slated for burning. Immediately inspired by all the repurposing possibilities this old weathered wood could accomplish, they bought the barn, saving it from death and giving life to a new side of the Natural Design company: TN Barn Project furniture.

The TN Barn Project fills Jake and Luke’s passions fully as it allows them to repurpose the wood, be artists in the world of carpentry, and educate the community on the benefits being green. Each barn saved eliminates the large CO2 release that a barn burning creates, further fulfilling the green mission the company embraces. That first barn provided materials for 42 pieces of furniture and 3 remodels. Natural Design now owns three more barns and has started construction on a new workshop to showcase all the possibilities where reclaimed wood can fit into a home or business.

What you notice instantly about the TN Barn Project (TBP) furniture is the unique design. Farm Tables made out of reclaimed wood are typical and have great appeal. However, the TBP pieces have a more artistic flair combining elements of modern design with the great strength of the old wood.

Jake talked me through all the benefits of using repurposed wood. He showed me a piece of 2”x3” White Oak wood containing about 60 years of growth rings. Today, this same size sample in oak would have about 6 years of growth rings, and just about 3 years for Pine. The trees used in these barns a hundred years ago got tall by being strong and able to fight for their growth. They weren’t grown on tree farms with the singular purpose of quick to grow and thus quicker to market. What this means is that the old wood is stronger and in the opinion of everyone gathered around, far more beautiful. The knots and marbling in the wood are at such a depth and size that is simply not possible with modern quick grown samples.

Natural Design just came out with their first catalog showcasing their TN Barn Project pieces. The pieces can also be seen online and at the Shimai Gallery, located in Loveless Café marketplace in Nashville. They will also custom make you any piece. They collaborate with you, figuring out the perfect size, the look wanted, and the wood you prefer (Oak, Adler, Pine, and Poplar amongst others.) With their help, you get a custom made, beautiful signature piece with the ND, for Natural Design, burned into the underside, with a picture of the barn from where the wood was reclaimed.

Many barn owners throughout the South are realizing the value of the old barn wood and selling the barns instead of burning them. Many owners will still simply give you the wood if you are willing to break down the barn as this work is unforgiving. Luckily, Middle TN has a new generation of barn scouters: Luke and Jake Herring. For more information, see: www.mynaturaldesign.com

Photos and text by Natalie Broulette

There’s something magical about Savannah, Georgia. Whether it’s the rich history and moody Spanish moss hanging from the trees or the slower pace and eagerness to entertain, if there’s one thing this city’s got, it’s character. Elegant and mysterious, yet warm and welcoming, the “Hostess City” has plenty of shops, sights and especially, eats to offer.

Day 1 – Downtown Delights
8 a.m. – Start your day off in downtown Savannah with breakfast at J. Christopher’s. Casual and quaint, they’ll even leave a pot of coffee on your table. If you’re looking to hit the ground running, grab a pastry or breakfast sandwich at family-owned Harris Baking Company. And be sure to pick up a decadent pecan chocolate chewie for decadent mid-day snacking.

10 a.m. – When it comes to shopping, Broughton Street has a great mix of popular chains and charming local shops. You’ll find Urban Outfitters, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and Banana Republic, but stores like The Paris Market & Brocante, Bleu Belle Boutique, James Gunn, Copper Penny, DC2 Design and 24e are the true draw. You’ll find clothing, shoes, accessories, antiques, home décor and more. Be sure to stop by the Savannah Bee Company. This honey producer sells food and beauty products throughout the country, but their flagship (and only) store is a feast for the senses. Step up to the honey bar to sample their artisan flavors and pick up sweet souvenirs for friends and family.

1 p.m. – You may have heard that a certain butter-loving southern chef calls Savannah home. Yes, just about every tourist in town wants to have lunch at Paula Deen’s restaurant The Lady and Sons. If you’re interested, plan ahead and start off your morning in their reservations line. If you’re looking for a place that’s a little more low key, head to Soho South Café. It’s an eclectic and inviting spot – part restaurant, part gallery – and they serve up a mean meatloaf sandwich.

3 p.m. – Savannah’s downtown is a laid out on a grid, which means, you can find your way to Savannah’s 22 historic squares pretty easily. If you’re feeling ambitious, downtown Savannah is walkable, but there are plenty of transportation options from trolleys and horse-drawn carriages to Vespas and Segways. Be sure to look for the DOT vehicles providing free transit downtown. Regardless of how you get there, take a stroll through beautiful Forsythe Park. Its stunning fountain and amphitheater take center stage, and it’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and lay in the grass with a book. You’ll even find a farmers’ market on Saturdays. If the humidity is killing you, take a breather in the Jepson Center for the Arts, Savannah’s contemporary art museum, or explore the local galleries and shops owned by the Savannah College of Art and Design, filled with unique locally-made treasures.

7 p.m. – Once you’re through wandering, enjoy dinner in traditional Southern style at The Olde Pink House. Built in 1771, the house has served as a private home, a bank and was even the headquarters for one of Sherman’s generals. You’ll find Low Country cuisine that is equal parts classic and creative.

9:30 p.m.  – Craving a late night snack? Find it at Leopold’s Ice Cream, an old Savannah favorite recently revived. Try one of their seasonal flavors or the Caffé Leopold, a scoop of your choice doused with a shot of espresso.

Day 2 – Beach Bumming
6 a.m. – I wouldn’t head to Savannah without spending a day at the beach. Tybee Island, a quirky and laid-back beach town, is just 17 miles from downtown Savannah. Watch the sunrise over the Atlantic if you feel so inclined and then grab a bountiful breakfast amongst locals at The Breakfast Club.

9 a.m. – Make your way to the beach and spend a few hours basking in the warm sun and soft sand, then walk to the Tybee Pier & Pavilion for great views of the water, dolphins (if you’re lucky) and fellow beach bums.

12 p.m. – The Sundae Café resides in a humble location, between a liquor store and a gas station, but the food more than makes up for it. Plus, they won’t scowl at your sandy, flip-flop-adorned feet. Have a glass of sweet tea, a fried green tomato BLT and a slice of heavenly peanut butter pie. It doesn’t get more southern or more delicious.

2 p.m. – Time to burn some calories. Walk up – and down – the 178 steps in the historic Tybee Lighthouse, or rent a bike and ride along the McQueen’s Island Historic Trail, taking in views of the salt marsh and wildlife as you go. Along the way, you’ll pass Fort Pulaski, a Civil War-era national monument – the perfect place for history buffs to take a breather.

7 p.m. – For dinner, head back towards the mainland stopping on Wilmington Island on the way for dinner at Ele Fine Fusion. This modern and sophisticated restaurant has a great selection of seafood, sushi and other Asian dishes.

11 p.m. – Back in downtown Savannah, grab a late night treat at Lulu’s Chocolate Box. Try one of their fabulous desserts like the Strawberry Suspension Cake and enjoy a signature martini.

Day 3 – Sights and Sweets
11:30 a.m. – Sleep in late before heading to Sunday brunch at Belford’s in City Market. Enjoy eggs benedict and grits, silver dollar pancakes or opt for their award-winning crab cakes.

1 p.m. – Savannah’s City Market is filled with galleries and shops. Terra Cotta is a favorite. They house an ever-changing selection of new and vintage clothing, shoes, accessories and gift items. Grab an Italian soda at Café GelatOhhh! to beat the heat and be sure to get a free praline sample at Savannah Candy Kitchen. You’ll probably end up buying a whole pound.

2 p.m. – If you’re interested in checking out the unique details of Savannah, there are many walking and trolley tours offered on very specific topics from gardens to ghosts to Girls Scouts. There’s a tour highlighting all the movies filmed in Savannah from “Cape Fear” to “Forrest Gump,” and of course, a tour dedicated to Paula Deen.

4 p.m. – Next up, River Street.  You’ll find plenty of entertainment along the historic cobblestone road, loads of shops, street musicians, and yes, another place to sample pralines, River Street Sweets. Head up to Rocks on the Roof in The Bohemian Hotel for an afternoon cocktail. The views of the Savannah River and the striking Talmadge Memorial Bridge are almost as good as the blackberry mojito.

6 p.m. – Great eats await at Cha Bella where organic, seasonal and local ingredients are combined to form innovative, yet comforting Southern dishes. It’s the perfect way to bid farewell to your “Hostess.”

J. Christopher’s: http://www.jchristophers.com/
Harris Baking Company: http://www.harrisbakingco.com/
Savannah Bee Company’s Honey House: http://www.savannahbee.com/honeyhouse
Soho South Café:  http://www.sohosouthcafe.com/
Jepson Center for the Arts: http://telfair.org/
Leopold’s Ice Cream: http://www.leopoldsicecream.com/
The Breakfast Club: http://tybeeisland.com/dining/brclub/Default.htm
Sundae Café: http://www.sundaecafe.com/
Ele Fine Fusion: http://www.elerestaurant.com/
Lulu’s Chocolate Bar: http://www.luluschocolatebar.net/
Belford’s Savannah Seafood & Steaks:‎ http://www.belfordssavannah.com/
Terra Cotta: http://shopterracotta.blogspot.com/
Café Gelatohhh! http://www.gelatohhh.com/
Savannah Candy Kitchen: http://www.savannahcandy.com/
River Street Sweets: http://www.riverstreetsweets.com/
Rocks on the Roof: http://www.bohemianhotelsavannah.com/dining/dining.asp
Cha Bella: http://www.cha-bella.com/

Down and Out Chic (D&OC) is a spunky, fun and chic blog written by the lovely Christina. I love the mix of art, interior design and lifestyle posts that keep me smiling and constantly clicking to learn more about the people and products that she features!

D&OC has featured the art of Melissa Chaib…

…as well as serene shots of unnamed landscapes…

In addition to running her fabulous blog, Christina is also the proprietor of a vintage-chic Etsy store (also called Down and Out Chic). Just a few of the thing we love from her store…

5 Questions for Christina…

Where do you find inspiration for your blog?
Inspiration for my blog comes from everywhere and anywhere I spot beauty and good design: magazines, internet, art, photography, other blogs, the crafting community, etc. I started blogging in order to be able to offer a different perspective on affordable design because I was getting increasingly discouraged clicking on items on style blogs that I could never feasibly afford (or would want to pay for if I could). My inspiration comes from knowing there are quality handmade, indie, eco-friendly, and ethically conscious products that are accessible to all economic levels and that you don’t have to be rich to be a conscientious and stylish consumer! Inspiration abounds when you realize that beauty and good design really have very little to do with money.

How does Southern culture influence your blog?
I don’t know that there are any overt Southern themes on D&OC but I do live in the small, culturally rich Southern town of Athens, Georgia and I blog about my own experiences selling my work at local craft fairs and I do end up featuring many Southern artists and local designers. I received an art degree from a Southern university so even my formal art “training” is steeped in Southern themes and culture which I’m sure shines through on the blog now and again.

What is your favorite place in the South to visit?
Any beach, any beach at all will do for me! Unfortunately, due to the recent oil spill, how Southerners vacation will be greatly changed (although this is the least of our worries surrounding this tragedy, it’s still a reality). I love visiting the historic town of Savannah, GA as well as other culturally rich cities like Nashville, TN and Asheville, NC. I really should take more advantage of weekend trips to these great local cities.

Favorite Southern tradition?
To give some perspective here, I was raised by Puerto Rican, native New Yorkers in the South so my cultural experience is a mixed bag. My family isn’t your typical Southern family by any stretch of the imagination so many of my experiences surrounding Southern tradition have come from friends and my fiance’s family. I think my favorite Southern “tradition” are afternoon pot lucks involving a variety of local foods, Kentucky Whiskey and plenty of mojitos and lemonade for all!

3 blogs you can’t live without?
Ooooh, now this is a difficult question as I read a lot of blogs! If you must make choose though…
Design is Mine – I like a blogger who seems down to earth and posts about accessible design. Summer’s blog is just that- lots of inspirational posts and eye candy delivered consistently and without pretense.
Art at Heart – This UK blog is my daily art and conceptual design blog. Max finds some of the neatest products that walk the line between functionality and non-functional art object.
desire to inspire – This Canadian/Australian dream team are (in my humble book) the interior inspiration mavens of the blog world. If you like interiors that run the gamete of styles, this blog will keep you busy searching through the impressive archives of interiors stylists, photographers and designers.

Below is an updated image with all of the updated/fixed information. Plus, we’re uploading the new spread to the Summer issue in Issuu as we speak!

Big thanks to the fantastic stores and craftspeople featured in the article for their understanding:

Thomas Paul

Vagabond Vintage

Ferm Living

Gleena

…and, of course, the always wonderful Barb Blair of Knack Studios.

Don’t miss our article in the Summer issue about CFW, featuring amazing photos by the talented David Despeaux. Only five days left!

Photo Courtesy of Matt Moore. Learn more about Matt at www.haveheroverfordinner.com.

First up is a photo by Bridgett Ezzard for an article by the wonderful Liza Graves about the super talented guys at the Tennessee Barn Project!