Send us a text

Welcome back to Couture & Construction! In today’s episode, host Andrew Denny explores the American College of the Building Arts (ACBA) in Charleston, SC. He is joined by Chad Urban, ACBA's CTO and adjunct professor, and Scott Moore, Texture's Vice President.

They discuss the college's unique focus on traditional building arts like blacksmithing and timber framing, its innovative curriculum, and the opportunities it offers its attendees. They also highlight the vital role ACBA plays in preserving and modernizing artisan trades, ensuring these skills remain relevant in today's world.

Have a guest you’d love to hear on the show? Send us a text!

Episode Timestamps:

00:52 Meet Chad Urban: From Attorney to Artisan Advocate

02:39 The Unique Appeal of ACBA

04:43 The History and Mission of ACBA

06:59 Hands-On Learning and Real-World Experience

15:55 The Curriculum: Blending Trades and Academics

18:36 Reviving Artisan Trades: Public and Private Demand

28:15 Character Development Through Hands-On Learning

29:49 Career Opportunities Post-Graduation

35:14 Student Recruitment and Media Exposure

39:32 Faculty and Administrative Structure

41:49 Rapid Fire Questions

Learn more about ACBA

Instagram

Website

About Couture & Construction: Hosted by Andrew Denny of Textures Nashville, Couture & Construction is an uplifting podcast dedicated to the many different aspects of the luxury building industry. Through thoughtful conversations with makers and business owners, Couture & Construction is a weekly podcast that breaks down the luxury side of the construction industry. Join us as we share the stories and introduce you to the people behind beautiful spaces.

Follow us on Instagram!

Send us a text

Welcome back to Couture & Construction! In today’s episode, host Andrew Denny sits with Betsy Berry, founder and principal designer of B. Berry Interiors, in Charleston, South Carolina. Betsy shares her journey from growing up in the Lowcountry to working for one of the top design firms in New York City and eventually starting her own firm.

Andrew and Betsy discuss Southern Charm, community, and historical preservation amidst modern influences. Highlights include the balancing act of growing a business and challenges such as the impact that weather has on historic homes.

Have a guest you’d love to hear on the show? Send us a text!

Episode Timestamps:

01:08 Meet Betsy Berry

03:32 Betsy’s Journey into Design

03:51 Influence of Southern Roots

05:30 New York Adventures

08:24 Starting B. Berry Interiors

12:07 Defining Southern Elegance

14:10 Balancing Historical and Modern Design

21:54 Sourcing Materials in Charleston

25:43 Charleston's Expanding Design Influence

33:14 B. Berry Interiors' Unique Approach

35:08 Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Betsy

Instagram

Website

About Couture & Construction: Hosted by Andrew Denny of Textures Nashville, Couture & Construction is an uplifting podcast dedicated to the many different aspects of the luxury building industry. Through thoughtful conversations with makers and business owners, Couture & Construction is a weekly podcast that breaks down the luxury side of the construction industry. Join us as we share the stories and introduce you to the people behind beautiful spaces.

Follow us on Instagram!

Send us a text

Welcome back to Couture & Construction! In this episode, host Andrew Denny sits down with Monica Lavin, the creative force behind Art of the Entry and the Lavin Label. Throughout the discussion, they explore the significance of crafting captivating entryways, from Monica's journey to starting her own design company to innovative ideas in mailbox and hardware design. Monica shares insights on using sustainable materials and creating heirloom-quality exterior accents to delight her clients and add classic curb appeal to historic neighborhoods.

Andrew and Monica also discuss the emotional impact of well-designed entrances, the role of social media in branding for small businesses, and Monica’s journey of restoring her historic home in Charleston.

Have a guest you’d love to hear on the show? Send us a text!

Episode Timestamps:

02:04 Monica's Journey: From Education to Design

07:39 The Birth of Art of the Entry

16:32 Design Philosophy and Inspirations

24:12 Timeless and Inviting Entryways

26:05 Travel Inspirations

27:39 The Arrival Experience

33:03 The Impact of Social Media on Small Businesses

40:11 Manufacturing Challenges and Successes

44:42 Future of Entryway Design

47:15 Rapid Fire Questions

Connect with Monica

Instagram

Website

About Couture & Construction: Hosted by Andrew Denny of Textures Nashville, Couture & Construction is an uplifting podcast dedicated to the many different aspects of the luxury building industry. Through thoughtful conversations with makers and business owners, Couture & Construction is a weekly podcast that breaks down the luxury side of the construction industry. Join us as we share the stories and introduce you to the people behind beautiful spaces.

Follow us on Instagram!