Meet Kenny Wine of Atla in Boulder

Kenny, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I was a student at CU I was pressed to get a job in a machine shop on campus. At the end of 2012, I got a job as a machinist apprentice at the CIRES Machine shop where they specialized in building scientific instruments. I spent countless hours designing, building and repairing machines of all types. In my spare time, I designed and built my own furniture with the skills I was honing as a student. People started inquiring and I began to feel like I should take the leap of faith and start a business.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Nothing is ever smooth. The struggles are at every corner and it is important to not get discouraged.

Atla – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
ATLA specializes in high-quality modern furniture that puts the simplicity front and center of our design philosophy and aesthetic. We use a custom joinery system that enables easy customization, flat pack ability, and far superior durability. These same inlays add to the design creating unique patterns based on the size and leg arrangement.

We are most proud of our mission to plant as many trees as possible. Planting ten trees for every large table and cabinet, five trees for benches and coffee tables, and three trees for every chair that we sell. We also offset 100% of our carbon emissions and use 0% VOC wood finishes. We believe in giving back more than we take. We stand by our product and offer a lifetime warranty on all hardwood and steel pieces and industry standard warranties on all plywood pieces.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
This is something I am still trying to understand. Looking for a work-life balance. Our goal with ATLA is to force the industries hand to force more sustainable practices in manufacturing. We want to see a world where people give back more than we take.