The robust creative community and naturalistic landscape were what beguiled Maryland native Casey Johnson to the idyll of Black Mountain, North Carolina. And in just four years-following two in Asheville-his downtown-area studio practice has mushroomed to five members strong. Leveraging American domestic hardwoods like walnut, maple and white oak, Johnson’s imaginative furniture combines traditional hand carving with modern methodologies. Fusing formal sculpture with everyday functionality, his output focuses primarily on custom commissions for high-end homes. Luxe spoke with Johnson about his creative impetus, his inspirations and his future visions.