Frequently Asked Questions

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 All of our pieces are designed and handcrafted in our studio and workshop located in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada—by us, Fort & Athena.

Each piece is thoughtfully designed and built to showcase artistic expression and exceptional craftsmanship.
 

Our original work includes one-of-a-kind, handcrafted:
Benches, Chairs, Accent Tables, Lamps, Custom Lamp shades, and other custom furnishings upon request.

Absolutely! If you have a specific vision—whether it's size, colour, material, or subject matter—we’d love to bring it to life. Just send us an email to start the conversation. We welcome commissions.

Our custom furnishings are created for residences, offices, retail spaces, and hospitality environments.
 

We sell and accept commissions from:
Home Owners, Interior Designers and Decorators, Retail Stores, Architects, Builders, Business Owners, Real Estate Agents

We prioritize North American suppliers whenever possible, including several based right here in Southern Alberta. Supporting local businesses is part of our ethos.

Wood: Sustainably sourced from North American managed forests, ensuring fewer trees are cut and harvested trees are replaced.

Cowhides: Ethically sourced from Brazil as a byproduct of the meat industry—not from animals raised solely for their hides.

Fabrics: 100% pure cotton, printed and produced using eco-friendly manufacturing processes. These include non-toxic, water-based pigments and low-waste production methods.

We use high-quality, plant-based, non-toxic finishes that are environmentally friendly and VOC-free (Rubio Monocoat Will Plus 2C.) Some pieces may be finished with a clear polyurethane depending on the clients request.

Renew (a product of Rubio)is a ready-to-use product that refreshes, restores and protects surfaces treated with Oil Plus 2C. Renew should be used when the surface feels too dry or rough, or when the finish has worn down due to heavy use.

For manufacturers details, visit: https://www.rubiomonocoatcanada.com/products/renew

Our furniture is made one piece at a time. Though some designs are intentionally re-created, no two are ever identical. Variations in wood grain, stain, and individually sourced cowhides ensure that each piece carries its own character and expression. Every work reflects the artist’s interpretation and craftsmanship at the moment it is made. While we aim for accurate representation online, colours and finishes may vary by screen. These differences—both digital and material—are integral to the individuality of each piece.

Because each piece is handmade and custom-built, natural variations are to be expected. Every slab of wood is different—knots, grain patterns, and material gauges all play a role. These natural characteristics are carefully considered during the build process and may result in slight variations in length, width, or thickness. We see these differences not as imperfections, but as part of what makes each piece truly one of a kind.

We do not harvest our own wood, raise cattle for hides, or weave our own fabrics. Natural variations in grain, colour, and texture are expected—and celebrated—as part of the uniqueness of handcrafted art. These nuances do not diminish the quality but rather enhance the authenticity and character of each piece. We source from reputable suppliers who are committed to supporting artists, but we cannot guarantee or be held responsible for every aspect of the raw materials used.

All furniture is designed for indoor use and finished accordingly. However, natural materials have limitations:
 

Wood may expand, contract, or even crack with humidity fluctuations.
UV exposure may fade wood, leather, and finishes over time.
Leather will develop character with use—similar to a favourite leather jacket. Some of our pieces use oil-tanned leather that marks easily, creating a beautifully distressed patina over time—a look many of our clients love.

Yes, we deliver and ship using flat rates across Canada. (but do not ship to: North West Territories, Nunavut, Yukon, or Newfoundland.) We personally deliver locally and use CanPar (or comparable) for the reset of Canada. All products are carefully packaged and are insured when using the courier. We create, build and ship from Alberta Canada. We only deliver to house or business addresses and not to PO boxes. If you are in the USA, email us and we can arrange something with you.

For in-stock items please allow up to 10-14 business days for us to carefully process and prepare your order for delivery or shipment. If you see an item on our shop that is out of stock and really like, we can make a similar one for you. This typically takes 4-6 weeks. Shipping times will vary depending on your location.

The timeline for custom commissions varies based on the complexity of the project and the availability of materials. Once we’ve reviewed your request, we’ll provide an estimated timeframe and keep you updated throughout the process.