The Raddstone Story

Born into a family of creators and DIY enthusiasts, my early life was surrounded by the spirit of making. My mother, with her flair for creating and crafting everything from our childhood Halloween costumes to our championship RA model race cars, alongside my father and grandfather, who were always knee-deep in home projects that seemed to remake what didn’t need remaking, instilled in me an appreciation for creation. Although as a kid I wasn’t always enthusiastic about the building and remodeling that commandeered many of my summer days, I often found myself pulled into various projects as a way to make up for my youthful escapades. Rather than facing a two-week grounding after sneaking out with friends, we'd strike a deal to work off our punishment in one long, sweltering Arkansas summer day—hauling dirt or pouring concrete in the backyard. My buddies, eager to keep their own mischief under wraps from their parents, would jump at the chance to help, leaving their parents puzzled over their sudden burst of enthusiasm for hard work on a Saturday. Looking back, I think my dad might have anticipated our collective inability to comply, intentionally planning these intense projects for weekends when my friends would stay over. At the time, I didn't realize that these challenging, yet surprisingly fun days with my friends were doing more than just paying off mischief; they were laying the foundation for something much bigger.

Years later, entrenched in the demanding routine of the 9-5 grind as a management consultant, I found myself yearning for that hands-on engagement. The long hours, constant travel, and sedentary desk work left me burnt out and restless. I craved movement, creativity, and the satisfaction of building something tangible. Ultimately, this longing pushed me to temporarily leave my corporate life behind to begin a sabbatical in search of something more fulfilling—something that required both my hands and heart.

Raddstone emerged from a deep-seated desire for joy and creativity. Initially, the idea wasn’t to start a home décor company, but rather to explore the art of creation and the freedom of expression. My path shifted profoundly after returning home from a trip to Barcelona, Spain, where I encountered the awe-inspiring mosaics and bold designs of architect Antoni Gaudi. His work transcended the ordinary, inspiring me to rethink everyday objects as more than mere space fillers: they could be vibrant expressions of creativity and storytellers in their own right. This influence propelled my desire to design pieces that are not only functional but also bold, expressive, and timeless. Today, Raddstone stands as a testament to this vision. It is my imaginarium, where every delicately designed pattern and every beautiful moment of imperfection isn't just a detail—it's a testament to a life well-lived and a piece well-loved.

- Tanner