PAGODA RED gallery. The dynamic 15,000 square foot, early 20th-century restored bow-truss space is always changing.
In this Maker’s Spotlight, we are featuring a favorite showroom in Chicago – Pagoda Red! We have been fans for so many years, as they share the best in Asian architectural artifacts, furniture and objects. We asked founder Betsy Nathan to share a bit about their history and mission, and she was happy to oblige!
A mix of traditional & contemporary forms from PAGODA RED’s storied collection
HISTORY: In the early 1990s, founder Betsy Nathan moved to Beijing to study Mandarin and met a group of legendary Chinese furniture experts. Under their mentorship, she became an expert in provenance, craftsmanship, joinery and history. Nathan moved back to the United States and established her first showroom in Chicago in 1997.
19th-century Pudding Stone Table with Ceramic Citron Vessels
MISSION: PAGODA RED is the design destination for people who love the art, history, style and spirit of Asian antiques and modern objects. We’re stewards, travelers and translators. We’re known for shining a light on undiscovered artists and artifacts. Everything we collect is handmade, and beautiful in its imperfection. We take pride in bringing the past into the present, honoring history and integrating it into the way we live now.
PAGODA RED’s graphic entry. The murals are inspired by Ming motifs found on traditional blue & white porcelain. The sprawling public art was created by Chicago artist Amuse126.
VISIT: Our rough luxe gallery and studio offers an up-close experience with objects collected over 20+ years. We are located in the vibrant Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago.
PAGODA RED gallery. The rough-luxe space is influenced by the belief—shared by world philosophies including Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and many Western practices—that balance can be achieved through the coupling of opposites. This balance is achieved in the pairing of hard stone floor with soft textiles curtains, and ancient craft with modern design.
ONLINE: Our collection is also available at pagodared.com where you can read Stories about the artists & designers in our community, save some of your Favorite objects, and see how designers incorporate what we do into their projects.
Monumental Apothecary Chest circa 1850
What a special place. Thank you, Betsy, for your incredible collection and for sharing it with the rest of the world!!