Our homes, like our lives, are meant to be ever-evolving. The people we meet and the places we experience leave an indelible mark on how we view the world. Creating a home space that mirrors the innermost parts of you, however unexpected, fosters an environment others will be drawn to; and more importantly, fosters an environment handpicked for your comfort and enjoyment.
Most people’s interiors reflect a variety of styles. From vintage hand-me-downs to ultra-modern fixtures, the layers of furnishings cultivate dynamism and ultimately, a collection of things you simply love. That is what Kudzu Antiques + Modern seeks to inspire: exploration from the inside out of pieces that speak to your soul.
Ornate is an understatement when describing their massive selection. Walking through row after row and booth after booth is akin to traversing a series of museum exhibits. The visual splendor evokes strong reactions - you’re guaranteed to find something you’re obsessed with. Their European travels consistently result in an average of four hundred items from all over. Vintage items are restored and refurbished while leaving each piece historically intact. You might discover earthen-ware cake molds from the 1800s or an English oak chest over 300 years old.
Kate and George Lawes call Kudzu a three-in-one stop: antique mall, furniture store, and gift shop all rolled into one. Now a third-generation family business, with the addition of their daughter Emily last August, constant evolution is the main thread. When Kate and George decided to take over the business after the passing of Kate’s mother, they added in the modern element, mixing new with vintage. Their booths act as apertures into each artisan's creative mind. The thematic specificity and maximalism represented are pure eye candy. It would be easy to spend hours taking in a single display. They are continually repurposing areas to carve out space for their infinitely expanding collection: the front porch was recently closed in and their highest-selling “Mod” section was previously an attached shed.
There are wholly unique pieces always coming in and out, chosen to catch the eyes and excite the senses. Pointing to a polka-dotted sectional, Kate mentions that George doesn’t love it, but she adores “showing people how to do what they might be afraid of.” The merchandising is a team collaboration, and the wide range of ages employed here lends itself to well-rounded and thoughtful displays.
When asked for advice they would each give a person unsure of how to choose furnishings for their home, they both hone in on the importance of individual tastes and preferences. By filling your home with things you like, your collection will naturally work together and build upon itself. Before you know it, you will have a harmonious space that meshes well. And never be afraid to change it! Resist stasis and allow things to come and go, reflecting your personal growth and change.
Kate and George’s home is a microcosm of the store. Lighting is critical, providing highlights while creating an atmosphere of serene warmth. They describe objects as living entities that pull your focus, seemingly looking back at you. By opening oneself up to pure captivation, home design becomes a delightful adventure; and as their front desk sign reads, “It doesn’t have to match the couch.”
"Put your love and life into your home."