We recently connected with Chase Kerlin and have shared our conversation below.
Chase, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
At Olive & Wool, creativity is at the core of everything we do. To stay inspired, I constantly immerse myself in luxury beyond just furniture. I study high-end fashion houses, watch runway shows from brands like Hermès and Brunello Cucinelli, and analyze how they merge heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation. Luxury publications like Architectural Digest, Robb Report, and Veranda are part of my regular reading, offering insight into emerging design trends, material innovations, and timeless aesthetics.
Beyond print and fashion, I also draw inspiration from bespoke tailoring, fine watchmaking, and even automotive design—industries that, like ours, are rooted in precision, artistry, and a commitment to quality. Our goal is to push the boundaries of what luxury furniture can be. For me, creativity isn’t just about following trends—it’s about studying craftsmanship at its highest level and translating that into pieces that feel both timeless and forward-thinking.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Olive & Wool is a luxury furniture brand specializing in solid wood furniture accented with Italian leather and artisan brass finishes. Rooted in timeless craftsmanship and inspired by the elegance of haute couture, we create statement pieces that blend artistry with functionality. With an unwavering commitment to the highest quality materials and meticulous joinery, our designs cater to discerning homeowners and top-tier interior designers. Our Couture Case collection is our new concierge design service that transforms unique visions into reality. This program is invitation only and ensures that every piece reflects sophistication, exclusivity, and enduring beauty.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three qualities have been most instrumental in my journey with Olive & Wool: an obsessive commitment to craftsmanship, a deep understanding of luxury aesthetics, and the ability to build meaningful relationships within the design world.
1. Commitment to Craftsmanship – From day one, I’ve been relentless in ensuring that every piece we create meets the highest standards of quality. This means not just understanding furniture construction but constantly seeking out the best materials, artisans, and techniques. For those starting out, I’d advise immersing yourself in your craft—study historical and contemporary masters, visit workshops, and never stop refining your skills.
2. Understanding Luxury Aesthetics – Luxury isn’t just about high-quality materials; it’s about storytelling, emotion, and exclusivity. I’ve spent years studying high fashion, bespoke tailoring, fine watchmaking, and even automotive design to understand how top-tier brands create an aura of sophistication. For newcomers, I recommend diving into luxury publications, attending design exhibitions, and paying attention to the small details that make luxury brands timeless.
3. Building Relationships & Industry Presence – The luxury design world is as much about relationships as it is about product. Working with top interior designers and high-net-worth clients requires trust, reputation, and a deep understanding of their needs. My advice? Network with intention, seek mentorship from established professionals, and consistently deliver beyond expectations—your reputation will become your strongest asset.
Success in this space isn’t just about talent; it’s about an unyielding commitment to excellence, an understanding of what luxury truly means, and the ability to connect with those who appreciate and invest in the finest craftsmanship.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Running a luxury brand like Olive & Wool requires an intense level of attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving, so feeling overwhelmed is inevitable. When that happens, I take a step back and reconnect with the sources of inspiration that fuel my passion—whether it’s flipping through Robb Report, watching a high-fashion runway show, or visiting a fellow makers workshop.
I also remind myself that craftsmanship is a process, not a race. Slowing down and focusing on the fundamentals—materials, design, and the artistry behind each piece—helps ground me. Sometimes, a shift in environment is all it takes. Traveling, even just to a museum or a quiet space, allows me to reset and gain fresh perspective.
Beyond that, I rely on my team. I’ve learned that great brands aren’t built alone, and surrounding myself with talented artisans and designers means I can collaborate and tackle challenges with a clearer mind. Ultimately, I try to view moments of overwhelm as signals to refine, refocus, and push forward with intention.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://oliveandwool.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliveandwoolfurniture/
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