The origins of the things we collectively love here are of primary concerns when picking subjects to feature. I love the back story—to learn how things are made and why things end up looking the way they do. When we allow ourselves to look beyond a product and spend time thinking about the people, places, cultures, and materials behind them, the true history of an object unveils itself.

With this thought in mind, I contacted Nathan Brown of Lodger Footwear. Brown began his professional life in athletic footwear. Decided to become a wine maker. Went back to school. And, now, he leads an informed and dedicated charge to produce some really fine footwear. Brown’s is a story that could make some people (read: me) feel like a loser).

Passions for how things are made and how they look present an opportunity to push elements of tradition and innovation. Thinking of some noted shoe-makers, like the American firm Alden, will help to conceptualize the standard. Taking time to consider the wealth of opportunity in material and design born out of innovative athletic footwear, you might begin to understand the potential. The aesthetic, as evidenced by the product, is rooted in traditional. Beautiful footwear for the well-dressed man.

Passion for shoes extends to customer experience and service. Lodger held its official launch last week, opening a storefront sandwiched between Bond Street and Saville Row on London’s Clifford Street. Its customers can choose between the ready-to-wear collection, and an exquisite made-to-order range of “shoes of the month.”

Given my interest in material life and culture, Brown’s enterprise was ripe for discussion. I spoke with him over the phone. We exchanged countless emails. And, over time, we began to get to some of the core issues involved in not just Lodger Footwear as a brand and store, but in developing new product and offering the best in care and service. The following conversation relays some of those points.