Shopper’s Diary: Meta44 in Millerton, NY

A few years ago, San Francisco–based design aficionado Charlotte Tracy needed an architect for the renovation of her summer house (see Before & After: A Summer Cottage on the Connecticut Coast). She went to her friend and local architect John Allee of Allee Architecture and Design, whom she met at boarding school in upstate New York 30 years ago. He’s inclined toward modernism, and she channels an organic Californian vibe. Drawn to the overlaps between the two, they opened Meta44, selling furniture designed by Allee, artwork by friends, and home design goods from small brands on both coasts. “We love finding well-crafted objects where modern design and natural style intersect,” Tracy says.

Above: Warm modern design components typical of the Meta44 aesthetic are set against the lush green backdrop of the Hudson Valley.

Above: Meta44 is on North Elm Avenue, an extension of the main street of Millerton, NY (Budget Travel named it “one of the 10 coolest small towns in America”).

Above: A sample of Meta44’s small brand wares include a Ferro Brass Dot Wire Bowl, Crudo Jugs, Spalted Napkin Rings, and Fog Linen Trays and Napkins. The drawing on the wall is by San Francisco artist Alex Zecca.

Above: Designed in San Francisco, Peace Industry Choobs are chemical free and made of 100 percent carpet-grade lamb’s wool and natural dyes.

Above: The 44a Finn Dining Table, designed by John Allee, combines the warmth of white oak with steel. Custom sizing and materials are available upon request.

Above: The 44a Stone Credenza, designed by John Allee, can be wrapped in a variety of stone options. Brazilian onyx is shown here. Door and drawer fronts can be waxed, mill-finish steel, or a wood species that works with the stone “shell.”

Above: Peace Industry Area Rugs are designed in San Francisco and made from 100 percent carpet grade lamb’s wool and natural dyes. They are chemical free, reversible, have no backing, and do not require a rug pad.

Above: The Meta44 shop is next door to John Allee’s architecture practice, Allee Architecture and Design.

Above: Meta44’s cofounders, John Allee and Charlotte Tracy, have been friends for 30 years.

In Reader Roundtable: Would You Hire a Friend (or Work for One)?, Tracy, Allee, and another friend, interior designer Hannah Childs, talk about what it’s like when friends work together.

Below: Meta44 is located in central Millerton, NY.