MEET THE BADIA FAMILY
Federico Badia, originally from Rome, grew up and works in Orvieto, Italy–a medieval city in Umbria. He began working with leather when he was sixteen in a small pelletteria (a leather shop) making belts, bracelets, and eventually, various bags. While there, he discovered a deep interest in leather, which has grown over the years. Later, at eighteen he found that his true passion lay in the art of traditional shoemaking. Sadly, this art has begun to die out even in Italy. Fortunately, after a long search, he was able to apprentice for two years in Rome. While there he learned the art of bespoke shoemaking, which encompasses measurements, shoe lasts, sewing techniques, goodyear welting, pattern design, shoe construction, and more. After working from home, in June 2011, he opened his shop in Orvieto. Federico designs, cuts, sews, and sculpts, each pair of shoes entirely by hand in his Bottega (workshop). He invites clients to come and learn about the process. He is passionate about his craft and constantly innovating to make a better product.
A family begins and a business grows.
Hannah Armbrust Badia, originally from Ohio, first came to Orvieto to study literature, art, and poetry during university. After graduation, she returned to work for the study abroad program and met Federico through a mutual friend in his newly opened shop. Later, when the heel broke off her favorite pair of boots, Federico promised he could rebuild them better than ever, which, after three months of coffee and conversation, he did. The two were married in 2013.
Soon after, Hannah began helping at the shop and learning the craft of leather bag and accessory design and construction from Federico, slowly building her skill. She now hand designs and makes all the Federico Badia bags and accessories. The mix of manual and mental creativity continues to challenge and fascinate her.
Building for the future.
Sebastian Badia, though only two years old, already wants to be a part of all aspects of life and work at the shop. He is particularly drawn to nails, hand tools, and machines of any kind–the more noise the better.
Beyond the shop, Sebastian loves books, puddle jumping, and digging.