Q&A with Pockets, Owner of Newport Cottages

Newport Cottages has been a Sprout favorite since we opened our doors in 2009. Not only do we love them for the quality of their handmade furniture but also because of the materials used, solid wood and water based paints. This heirloom furniture is beautifully made to be passed down from generation to generation. We were lucky enough to interview Pockets, founder of Newport, to learn more about the company.

First, we absolutely love the heirloom style of Newport Cottages, you really have the only thing like it. How did you come up with this concept?

When we began we were focused on adult furniture for the home and we really liked the idea of creating furniture that was of lasting quality. After we had our first son we noticed there was a lack of well-made quality baby furniture out there. We saw a need and decided to fill it.

Why is it so important for you to offer such high quality pieces? You have been around before the baby industry became an industry, and before the rise of using sustainable materials.

The baby and kids market is flooded with cheap, non-sustainable imports and we saw importance in creating something of enduring integrity and handcrafted here in the United States. We wanted to create a product that would bring a sense of pride to us as a company and to families who own our pieces.

Safety is also a huge concern of us, especially in the baby and juvenile furniture industry. Manufacturing in the US ensures that we produce the safest product possible. We also use materials that come from sustainable sources and we only use nontoxic paints to provide a healthy nursery environment.

Which collection is your favorite?

Each collection has its own unique characteristics that make it special. It has been exciting to see our new Beverly collection develop and flourish. It has had a great response from dealers and customers on both the east and west coast. Being able to use fabrics and textures to personalize each piece is one of my favorite features.

What is the most important advice you have for an expecting couple looking for furniture?

Do your research before shopping especially when shopping for nursery furniture. Check to see if the manufacturer has had any federal safety recalls and buy USA made as much as possible. Don't be afraid to spend a little more and invest in quality furniture.

Being a father yourself, which Newport Cottages pieces live in your home?

Our three boys all have Newport Cottages in their rooms. I designed a custom loft bed with a built in bookcase and desk underneath for my sons. It has become their favorite place to hang out. The oldest son is into music so he has a custom rack to hold his instruments. He has the Ricki bed in Taupe and his matching case goods are in Black. When we create new pieces our boys are always “testing” them out.