In the heart of Grand Rapids, Atelier Woodways is redefining kitchen design—bringing authentic Italian craftsmanship to West Michigan homes.
While many companies offer Italian-inspired products, Atelier Woodways has chosen a different path—partnering directly with two Italian companies preserving generations of tradition and artistry.
HONORING ITALIAN EXPERTISE AND TRADITION
For Atelier Woodways founder Marta Zordan, keeping production in Italy isn't a marketing choice—it's a commitment to culture.
Photo courtesy of Atelier Woodways.
As a second-generation entrepreneur, Zordan understands that true Italian craftsmanship is more than a label—it's centuries of knowledge passed down through families and communities. The companies behind Atelier Woodways' collections aren't simply manufacturing products—they're preserving techniques that have been refined through time.
When Atelier Woodways talks about their tailor-made kitchens, they come at it from a different approach. The company's Italian partners measure down to the millimeter, considering both how a kitchen looks and how it will function within a family's daily life. This precision comes from a cultural tradition where craftsmanship has always been valued as both a practical necessity and artistic expression. Unlike mass production, which prioritizes uniformity and speed, the Italian approach embraces the unique characteristics of materials and spaces.
For Zordan and her team, maintaining production in Italy isn't just about claiming European craftsmanship. It's about keeping alive a design philosophy that views kitchens as the heart of the home.
Photo courtesy of Castagna Cusine.
CONNECTION TO WEST MICHIGAN
The decision by Zordan and Atelier Woodways to bring Italian craftsmanship to Grand Rapids wasn't arbitrary. West Michigan's own rich furniture-making history—the legacy that earned Grand Rapids the nickname "Furniture City"—creates a natural connection.
"In Italy and in West Michigan, we understand the value of well-made things," Zordan said. "We both appreciate the difference between something manufactured to be replaced and something created to endure. This has allowed us to find a receptive community in West Michigan, where families are looking to create homes that will last for generations."
Photo courtesy of Atelier Woodways.
EXPERIENCING THE DIFFERENCE
When Atelier Woodways says you need to see their kitchens in person, they mean it. Open a pantry that disappears into the wall or pull a drawer that glides silently—revealing storage solutions you never knew were possible.
"Every inch of our kitchens is designed to be used, with thoughtful systems that maximize space while remaining beautifully hidden," Zordan continued. "Our finishes are flawless—whether you prefer the refined simplicity of handleless cabinetry or the elegance of hand-selected hardware.
"We invite you to visit our showroom, not just to see our kitchens, but to experience the difference. In a world increasingly dominated by disposable, lookalike goods, our kitchens offer an alternative—one where design, craftsmanship, and quality come together to create something built to last."
Photo courtesy of Castagna Cusine.
Beyond a kitchen's beauty and functionality, it's also made special by the human element behind them. Each kitchen carries with it the history, excellence, and expertise of the people who helped create it. Zordan and her team are passionate about sharing how the most meaningful objects in our lives aren't just those that serve us well, but those that are made with history, intention and care.
Written by Atelier Woodways.
Main photo courtesy of Atelier Woodways.