What makes Matt Christie with Green River Woods a good neighbor?

In the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, there's a business that exemplifies the perfect blend of craftsmanship, sustainability, and community connection. Green River Woods, owned and operated by Matt Christie for the past 18 years, has established itself as more than just a custom furniture company—it's become an integral part of Asheville's ecological and economic landscape.

Christie's journey to becoming a master woodworker began in Vermont, where he spent summers framing houses from the age of 15. Despite studying English and philosophy in college, the practical skills he developed through mentorship and hands-on experience eventually led him to establish his own urban wood salvage and custom furniture business. This transition wasn't without challenges—the 2008 housing crisis forced Christie to reimagine his professional path and build something truly his own. His experience working on salmon fishing boats in Alaska taught him valuable lessons about holistic problem-solving and wearing multiple hats in urgent environments—skills that would prove essential in his woodworking enterprise.

What truly sets Green River Woods apart is its commitment to sustainability and local materials. The business exclusively uses salvaged logs and lumber, milling their own wood from trees that might otherwise end up in landfills. This approach not only reduces carbon impact but creates unique, character-rich pieces impossible to replicate with mass-produced materials. Christie emphasizes that urban wood presents unique challenges, but the environmental benefits and distinctive aesthetic qualities make the extra effort worthwhile. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond the workshop—Christie regularly donates business resources to conservation organizations like the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy and National Green Works, supporting the preservation of the natural environments that inspire his work.

The business caters to a diverse clientele, from "friends and neighbors and regular folks who are teachers" to those building their dream retirement homes. What unites these customers is their desire to work with local builders, keep money in the local economy, and establish relationships with the artisans creating their furniture. Christie values this connection, noting that his ideal customers are those who care about learning about the process as much as he does. This educational component is central to Green River Woods' philosophy—they guide clients through every stage, from salvaging trees from backyards to milling, drying, and crafting the final pieces.

Recent years have brought unprecedented challenges to the business. During Hurricane Helene, the Green River Woods shop was nearly destroyed, with walls collapsing and significant inventory damage. However, this disaster revealed the strength of the community bonds Christie had built over two decades in Asheville. People showed up to help, reinforcing Christie's decision to establish roots in the area. "We have all these connections with people that look out for each other," he reflects, noting that the recovery process, though difficult, ultimately strengthened these community ties.

As Green River Woods continues to evolve, Christie remains committed to quality craftsmanship and sustainable practices. The business supports an entire network of local professionals, from sawyers and beekeepers to tree services, embodying the interconnected nature of a healthy local economy. For Christie, this work isn't just about making beautiful furniture—it's about being embedded in a community and creating something that will last. In his own words: "We're really into the whole process of it and not trying to just make a buck on it. We're producing a high-end product and we're doing things that are creative and challenging for us, and we're always pushing ourselves to do really quality work."

To learn more about Green River Woods go to:

https://greenriverwoods.com/

Green River Woods

828-450-4535