As I was finalizing the itinerary for my fall leaf-peeping trip and saw I’d be in Vermont for several days, I knew I had to find a way to make a stop in Woodstock to visit Farmhouse Pottery. I have been besotted with their pieces from the first time I saw a fully set table with their dinnerware and accessories at the Jenni Kayne store in Newport Beach. The clean, minimalist approach to their design aesthetic is so right up my alley feeling both modern and organic with a clear sense of an artisans hand. And, of course, there’s their signature milky white glaze, which is stunning in its pureness and simplicity.
My visit was even better than I hoped for because I had the chance to meet Zoe and James Zillian, founders of Farmhouse Pottery. When I say they are gracious, that is an understatement. Eager to share time to chat, they were so genuinely appreciative of interest in their product and story. They’ve created a unique niche in the home goods marketplace representing the modern farm aesthetic in a fresh way. All of the traditionally crafted designs are American made from the custom blend of clay to the potter’s wheel and kiln.
The bright, white shop is filled with their gorgeous glazed pottery and natural wood pieces. I found several pieces I hadn’t seen before, which went straight to my Christmas list. Scattered throughout the store were beautifully curated vignettes with items in sync with their vision – books, linens, candles, clothing and jewelry, many from local artists. Lots and lots to love.
Beyond the shop, and open to the public, is the workshop where the pottery is made. Depending on the time of visit, there are often one or more potters working their skill on the wheel. I watched several slabs of clay transform with speed, consistency and precision into beautiful bowls yet maintain the slightest variation in the end product as you’d expect and hope for with a handmade item.
On my next visit, I’ll take a turn behind the wheel and attend one of their workshops. It’s a good excuse to spend more time hanging out in Farmhouse Pottery’s memorable space.
The view into the workshop is framed with a collection of nesting wood peasant bowls in various finishes.
Loved chatting with Zoe at the shop.
Some of these made their way home to me.
How gorgeous are these handcarved bowls?
Table filled with linens and a potter at work on the Farm Dog Bowl.
The store is merchandised beautifully with a great eye for detail. The cocoon vase looks great as a set or on its own.
Various glazes on the handmade wares and hand carved egg boards…how sweet are the dog bowls?
Farmhouse Pottery
1837 West Woodstock Rd. (Rt 4)
Woodstock, VT 05091
802.774.8373
Elizabeth Burns
I was just there and loved it all! We sell some of their wares at a shop I used to work but to see everything in this beautiful setting is just as fun as a visit to Simon Pearce! :)
Karima
It was great to see everything in one space merchandised by the creators. I unfortunately missed Simon Pearce this time, but will definitely make time for it on a future trip.
Kathy
I love Farmhouse Pottery, which I also discovered at Jenni Kayne. Would love a visit next time I’m east.