Alistair Boell, founder with one of his pieces

I talk a lot about the New Hampshire Furniture Masters Association on my blog and our goal to raise the awareness of locally crafted fine furniture design. This trend

apparently is on the rise across the world as well.

If you ever have the opportunity to travel to Australia, I highly recommend that you check out a former canning factory in Sidney’s Rosebery neighborhood, which now houses three locally owned businesses that are inspiring the community to buy local. Koskela, Kitchen by Mike, and School are the building’s three tenants. Patrons can shop for eco-friendly and casually chic furniture, enjoy a farm-fresh meal, and even take a class to learn high-profile design techniques from local Australian artisans.

And if you are in Melbourne, visit  the Melbourne Guild of Fine Woodworking, founded in 2007 by Alistair Boell, a friend from the North Bennet Street School.  Garrett Hack, one of the Furniture Masters, taught a class there in early November.  Another local organization made good.

What do you think about the movement to buy local? I’d love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below or contact me directly.