 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
SUCCESS STORIES
THE ARCH
Architectural Accents and Gallery
1020 Merrimon Ave Ste 103
Asheville, NC 28804(828) 253-5455
Hours T-F 9:30-5:30 Sat 10-3
Catherine Silver
The ARCH is at its two year mark in business and the prospects look good,
though not without some very realistic challenges and what feels like
a continuous need to drive the creative elements to the top. Owner Catherine
Silver says, “the idea of The ARCH’s name came about because
arches represent strength. They are beautiful and timeless. A major part
of The ARCH includes several sustainable building products including:
American Earth Clay plaster, a beautiful interior wall clay plaster finish
applied with a trowel; top sources of environmental flooring by Eco Timber,
Bamboo Mountain and Vida Cork.”
“I began to plan my business at least a year before opening a retail
showroom and gallery location. I sought much needed help from two local
business support organizations – Asheville SCORE and Mountain BizWorks
– two fantastic resources that I highly recommend to anyone and
everyone!”
The gallery represents various artists. Many do architecturally related
work such as terra cotta or stoneware sinks, fireplace mantles, a bathroom
vanity or a Japanese inspired tea chest, Several textile artists, photographers
and more are also represented. Catherine and trained clay applicator and
mason Jim Erskine work with a number of builders, designers, architects,
people in transition whether they are new to the area, building, renovating
or people who simply appreciate a nice looking doorbell or the detail
of an old Japanese cabinetry piece or Tansu.
Handmade art tile from about twenty local artists, as well as others from across the country are also available at The ARCH. Catherine can direct a customer to a particular artist’s style. “Not all installations need be expensive,“ she says. “For example, a single gorgeous tile piece can enhance an installation. Smaller architectural accents such as assorted switch plates, house numbers, cast bronze doorbells, fan pulls, or a bright lime colored ‘beach glass’ knob are available.”
“Service is very important to me, so I try not to take more projects
than those that allow me to provide good service,” says Catherine.
“I’ve enjoyed working with and supporting artists. I am keenly
aware that a great deal of community support, smart marketing, attending
and providing workshops, receptions and building awareness are keys to
success. We all have to support each other and we don’t have to
spend a lot of money to do it. We stop in and chat once in awhile, find
out what we all have to offer and spread the wealth among small businesses.”
Catherine’s philosophy is, “business competitors can also
become business alliances. We have a lot of choice in the matter. It is
more than just a good idea to support each other.”
Previous Success Stories: