Maybe the slower pace of life is the reason so many of the world’s top makers call the American South home.  Kollabora was lucky enough to head to Alabama for a chance to be floored by the creativity that flows throughout the state. 

Architecture and engineering firm Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood graciously invited us down to experience first hand the magic that is happening in their neck of the woods.  Andrea Jean of Southern Makers served as our excellent tour guide and took us to meet both the amazingly talented designer Natalie Chanin, as well as farmer Lisa Lentz of The Alabama Chanin Billy Reid Organic Alabama Cotton Farm in Trinity, AL.

Check out some highlights from our fantastic trip below.

Words to live by at Natalie Chanin's studio.

Carol down on the farm. Natalie's dog, Pree, in the studio. 

Carol and Andrea in the cotton field. 

Organic Cotton farmer Lisa Lentz and Andrea Jean of Southern Makers.