By SHANNON PRIEBE

In a neighborhood known for its Scandinavian influences, lies a little piece of classical Italy and old England.

Lucca Statuary in Ballard offers a wide variety of classical European designs from smaller wall fountains that look as if they belong in overgrown gardens untouched for years to the large estate fountains found in renaissance Italy as well as other garden ornaments endemic to Europe.

Ten years ago, owner Francine Katz began her business with the idea of bringing real European gargoyles to Seattle. She found it too esoteric a niche to be profitable. But in the process of research, Katz uncovered an underserved market for English and Italian statuary.

Naming her business after the town in Italy where many of her suppliers originate from, Katz and co-owner Peter Riches purchase and manufacture statuary made from molds of original pieces.

"Our suppliers are in San Francisco and they don't deliver. We have to go get it," Riches said. "Organizing our own truck is the only way to get the really cool stuff."

Katz added that they try to find the most stylish and best finished pieces in order to create a feel of old Europe. For this reason, they believe their business is unique.

In a little workshop next-door to the retail store, Katz and Riches are able to manufacture smaller pieces of statuary such as birdbaths (a popular item right now) and whimsy animal figures. Katz and Riches consider manufacturing the most exciting aspect of their business and as of June 1 they plan to move the workshop one block north to a 20,000-square-foot building for more space.

The process of manufacturing statuary involves pouring concrete (or poured stone) into silicon molds made by the business itself. After they have cured, the pieces are stained. "Statuary used to be painted, but it is not as good because it doesn't breathe," Riches said. "Stain is more durable and looks real."

Riches also added that with paint any material can be used including plastic.

Lucca Statuary uses concrete because it lasts through the Northwest winters and is heavy and therefore won't blow over as easily.

Currently, Katz and Riches wholesale their statuary all over the Northwest and deliver it as well. They have their own Web site which allows patrons to view samples and purchase pieces online.

"Our bread and butter are planters and urns as well as benches and fountains," Riches said.

He attributes the items popularity to the fact that they can fit on decks and patios, even apartment decks.

"Most people find out about us at the Northwest Garden Show," Riches said.

Last February, besides having a retail booth, Lucca Statuary set up a 1000-square-foot Italian garden patio, which won Sunset Magazine's Western Living Award.

Lucca Statuary also plans to have a retail booth at this years Fremont Fair.