Last weekend, my husband and I had the chance to enjoy a rare, kid-free break while our son stayed with family friends. So of course we high-tailed it straight to Asheville to enjoy great food, shopping and that certain quirky coolness for which Asheville is known. In addition to the novelty of staying out past 7pm, we also got to visit all of those “don’t touch that!” stores and galleries usually prohibited with a five-year-old in tow. I made a few new (new to me, anyway) discoveries that I’ll share here at Design Carolinas, and the first is a home furnishings store called K2 Studio. K2 Studio is located downstairs from the Kress Emporium art and craft gallery. I was immediately drawn to K2’s eclectic selection of art, furniture and decor. There were unique pieces I haven’t seen anywhere else, and once I began speaking with Joyce, the store manager, I began to understand why.
A large portion of K2’s merchandise is sourced locally, including one-off vintage finds and custom pieces hand-crafted by area artisans. There is North Carolina manufactured upholstery, alongside distressed farmhouse tables, hand-built lamps and locally sewn throw pillows. Overall the vibe is rustic and a bit industrial, with a touch of coastal chic thrown in for good measure. Though the store has been around for twelve years, they’ve been successful at adapting their merchandise mix respond to economic conditions and changing preferences from customers. Home decor that tells a story is what it’s all about these days, and K2 is one of those places to find that story. If you visit K2, here’s an idea of what you’ll find:
This distressed farmhouse style table is made locally, and can be custom built to your specifications. I like those hand-made cutting boards too!
Natural textures like burlap are so big right now. How cool are these pendant lamps? Perfect accent for a rustic or coastal style space.
A little bit French country, oui? Love this drop-leaf table.
And for an industrial vibe, this locally crafted lamp is made from rebar. The artwork behind it is also amazing.
The throw pillows and concrete table in this photo are also locally made. I’m looking around my house to figure out where a concrete table could go, because seriously, I need one of these!
For more information, visit K2 Studios online here. The store is open Monday-Saturday 11-6 and Sunday 12-5.