Stepping into Dixon Rye is like stepping through a magical, antique armoire: a wardrobe that transports you from the hustle and bustle of the outside world to the quiet surroundings of lush, upholstered furniture and intricate industrial lighting. Rows of taper candles adorn shelves, art captures your attention at every turn and groupings of pottery line vintage cabinetry. This is Dixon Rye — a refined collection of unique interiors, wares and designs curated by designer and owner Bradley Odom.
With more than 20 years of experience in the retail world, including stints at brands like West Elm and J.Crew, Bradley has taken his knowledge, heritage and passion and turned his dream into reality. He says, “I was inspired by the opportunity to create a creative endeavor from the ground up. I’ve been fortunate in my career to witness the development of brands from ideation to inception to execution, and have always known the dream was to do this with some of my own ideas.”
Even as a child, Bradley was very much into design and was caught more than once rearranging his mother’s furniture. “Every time, she would return to a brand new version of her former room.” Being able to constantly change and create is part of what makes design so intriguing for Bradley. “I see Dixon Rye as a constantly evolving space that continues to focus on creating an inspiring assortment, while growing our interior design services, too.”
Truly, Dixon Rye is a reflection of Bradley’s own history, eye for detail and passion for design. Even the name of the store evokes a sense of culture and Southern roots. “The idea was that we wanted to have a Southern influence without being hokey. I have always referred to living in the South as being below the Mason-Dixon Line, and one of my all-time favorite books is Catcher in the Rye. Our team liked the feelings that both words evoked and loved the story that the combination created.” We’re certain J.D. Salinger would be pleased as punch, too.
Walking around the store, just opened last month, and taking it all in is such an enjoyable experience. There is something for everyone, from members of the trade to the everyday shopper. Bradley has hand selected each item, which makes for an exclusive, highly curated design experience unlike any other. Take for example, Dixon Rye’s exclusive line of French pottery. “One of our most exciting collaborations is with French atelier, Astier de Villatte,” Bradley says. “Tucked away in Paris’ Rue Saint Honoré, Astier de Villatte is now the one and only major studio to keep the tradition of artisanal ceramic production in Paris alive. We’re honored to be the only Atlanta shop offering a large assortment of dinnerware, ceramics and candles.”
Of course, the exclusive partnerships do not stop there. Los Angeles-based Sabin is another great addition to the store’s floor. Bradley describes Sabin as “a design company committed to creating heirloom-quality home furnishings that is inspired by California’s dynamic and varied architectural past.”
Another unique offering at Dixon Rye? Custom upholstery pieces. “We took time to visit factories and manufacturers to make sure that the best craftsmen and techniques were used to create our pieces. I love the rich, beautiful fabrics that we chose, partnered with knowing they were all constructed within driving distance of Atlanta,” Bradley explains.
Not only is Bradley is committed to bringing in the best of the best in design from around the world, but he also includes a distinct focus on pieces from the South, saying, “We definitely want to bring attention to several of our local makers — custom lighting pieces from Little Artifacts, as well as several beautiful works from NG Collective.”
Not only is Dixon Rye a retail store, but soon Bradley will start offering design services, as well. The loft space of the store will serve as the design offices, offering clients a place to watch their visions come to life. Bradley’s dream doesn’t stop with his shop and design; there are even talks of monthly events, with whiskey tastings and book signings in the works. “Dixon Rye aspires to be a destination that nourishes the eye and the soul, creating an emotional connection with our customers through curiosity, inspiration and wonder. We aim to establish ourselves as a premier destination for home wares and interior design services, with front porch service to boot.”
As Dixon Rye settles into its space in the former Ironworks International site, visitors will still find exposed industrial wood and steel trusses. Bradley expresses that it was important to capture the former space along with his vision for his new store. “So much of our vision for the future is giving homage to the past, enabling contemporary activity with historical context.” As Dixon Rye establishes itself on Atlanta’s Westside, we can only imagine the place in history that it will certainly find.
Dixon Rye is located in the former Ironworks International location in Midtown, at 1085 Howell Mill Road NW. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Learn more at dixonrye.com.
