When it comes to furnishing your home, it's all about what makes you happy and creating a reflection of your distinctive tastes. Locally owned shops are excellent sources of inspiration. These stores usually carry unique pieces and items you might not be able to find anywhere else. They're perfect for people who want their homes to be representations of their one-of-a-kind personalities.
Kim Padgett opened Stray Cats Home Decor in Trussville, a short hour's drive from Cullman, in 1999. She and her husband Lee handcraft unique, one-of-a-kind furniture and home decor.
"Lee is a very skilled craftsman. He brings the vision to life," said Kim Padgett. "I’ve always been drawn to designing pieces for the home. We use a mix of materials: reclaimed wood, architectural pieces, tin and metal. We are detail driven and build pieces to last a lifetime."
Custom, handmade furniture pieces can make a statement.
"Handcrafted pieces are often custom to fit someone’s desires and needs. They may be looking for a statement piece," said Padgett. "Reclaimed wood has beautiful character and patina that can’t compare. People need to feel comfortable with the design to make it feel like home."
Padgett said natural and organic elements are popular at the moment.
"I think people are drawn to natural and organic elements - bringing the outside in. I believe this helps you feel relaxed and comfortable," she said. "Vintage seems to be extremely popular, too. It mixes well with rustic and traditional."
Creating new pieces from older materials is an art form and one that gives Padgett a lot of satisfaction.
We take a lot of pride in all the pieces we’ve created. I feel like we learn from each piece," she said. "It’s definitely an art to manipulate the old into something new and beautiful."
The Padgetts design and build from reclaimed wood and metal. They specialize in barn doors, beds, bookcases, cabinets, chests, coffee tables, consoles, dressers, farm tables, headboards, mirrors, TV cabinets and vanities.
Scroll through photos of their work at instagram.com/straycatshomedecor.
Find them in Trussville at 410 Main St.