I first met Javier while traveling around Mexico, searching for artists, woodworkers, and craftsmen to collaborate with. Soft-spoken Javier was all three, a rare combination of imaginative dreamer and skillful doer who worked only with salvaged and naturally fallen trees.

He recognized the specialness in every piece of timber, letting their natural uniqueness drive each of his designs. Where others saw imperfections—blade marks, scorching, knot holes—Javier saw characteristics to highlight.

There was something different in the handcrafted pieces he was creating. They were inventive. And exceptional. And unlike anything I had seen in the American furniture market. Arhaus and Javier began working together, forming a partnership built on the shared philosophies of artisan craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and celebrating the beauty of natural materials.

As our businesses grew over the years, so did our collaboration. Our senses of style evolved and refined. We developed new collections and expanded our offerings into new spaces of the home. Javier built new workshops and deepened his commitments to sustainable harvesting. He’s still working with naturally fallen trees as much as possible, and replanting his beloved forests along the way—now with his three sons and hundreds of skilled artisans working beside him.

I am so honored and proud to partner with Javier, and to offer our customers the most beautiful handcrafted furniture collections in the world. I hope you enjoy our Rooted series, and find endless inspiration in the stories we’ve shared.

JOHN REED, ARHAUS CO-FOUNDER