Debey Zito

Growing up in the La Crescenta Valley, in the northern hills of the Los Angeles basin, Debey spent much of her time exploring the outdoors. From here, the forms, textures and colors of the natural world became a life-long source of inspiration and creativity. 

She studied woodworking and metalworking at San Diego State University, graduating with a degree in Industrial Arts and Design. In 1980, Debey opened her own studio in San Francisco, with the desire to create only original pieces of furniture. She immersed herself in studying design, focusing on furniture, architecture and interior spaces. In time, she became a nationally recognized furniture maker, her hand-crafted furniture gracing many public and private spaces. Early on, her clients began asking her to consult with them on their interiors. Her designs are infused with the sensibility of many styles of architecture including Scandinavian, Asian, Mid-century Modern, Prairie, American and European Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau. Using textures and colors from nature, Debey’s interiors create a warm, serene and sophisticated living environment.

Debey has lectured across the country on Asian Architecture, Furniture Design and Arts and Crafts Furniture design.

Terry­­ Schmitt

Terry’s parents were involved in the early days of developing Yountville in Napa Valley, including starting the French Laundry restaurant. From that beginning she was exposed to a wide range of crafts and art in relation to construction and building: architects, carpenters, bricklayers, glass blowers, ceramists… creativity and innovation have always been a part of her life. Coming from a family of professional chefs and restauranteurs, one of Terry's many strengths is the designing the work and flow of kitchens. Terry has always been ‘drawn' artistically to the natural world of plants and animals. She immersed herself in art classes at San Francisco State University, where she focused her attention on realism.

A few years later while remodeling period homes in San Francisco, Terry‘s mother introduced her to Debey, connecting their shared passion of woodworking and design. After beginning an apprenticeship in Debey’s studio, she discovered carving tools. These brought her two loves of drawing and woodworking together, beginning her journey to become the highly regarded artist she is today.

Selected Press:

The Press Democrat, "Sebastopol woman creates magic in wood" by Meg Mcconahey, January 9th, 2015

Curbed, "Nationally-renowned, intricate woodworking has roots in Bay Area" by Daphne White, December 27th, 2019

Sonoma West Marketplace, "West County woodworkers draw on nature for heritage works of art" by David Abbott, April 13th, 2016