In 1987 Francis Vega and Neal Carlton formed Vega Metals, Inc. in downtown Durham, NC. The company was prolific, conceptualizing and producing thousands of site-specific architectural metalworks. They were featured in numerous trade publications and received seven international awards for metalwork. Beginning in 1999, the Vega team formed Cricket Forge to branch out creatively, and focused on a production line of handcrafted indoor and outdoor furnishings. Many of the products quickly became nationally recognized, and still are to this day. Lifelong friendships and collaborations were forged in the spirit of creativity and the appreciation of sharing art. Sadly, in 2013, Francis passed away to cancer. The company continued on, lovingly, via Neal Carlton, and Francis’ wife, Cindy.

Beginning in 2018 the Cricket Forge torch was passed to employees Jonathan Paschall, Aaron Earley, and James Dudley. They continue the decades-long focus on craftsmanship, creativity, and community. After nearly 30 years downtown, Cricket Forge moved to a newer and larger facility in Durham in 2019. In this space, the team has newfound room and inspiration to keep producing the pieces you love, while also designing new and exciting products.

Dolphin Bench

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