Recently Margaret, Liz, Alex, Beth and Alexis had the opportunity to go to Chaddock College, a two-day immersive experience at the beautiful factory campus in Morganton, North Carolina. The event is held four times a year and allows designers to see how Chaddock furniture is constructed and upholstered.

While the team was there they got to see artisans working on a piece for their clients. “I was surprised at how involved the process is, and how much hard work goes into making a piece of their furniture,” Liz says.

In the two-day curriculum, the team got to see how the company combines artisan craftsmanship techniques with modern technology. They also got to witness the creation of made-to-order upholstery, including patterning, cutting, sewing, fabric application and custom tailoring treatments. They even got to try their hands at staining and distressing wood. “I was impressed that they make their own boxes for each piece of furniture. The box machine is really neat,” Margaret says.

Everyone was impressed at what a great working environment Chaddock offers their employees, and how the company attended to the smallest details. “I couldn’t believe how many hands touch the pieces. I loved meeting the people,” Beth says. “They’re so focused! They truly are craftspeople. They have a process where employees make suggestions for improvements and they meet to review them every day!”

Ensuring that clients have access to unique, quality furniture that will stand the test of time (and Charleston weather) is important to the MDI team. Seeing Chaddock’s process from start to finish was fun and inspiring.