I’ve always been fascinated with the way things work - and the way things are built. But, increasingly the products in our lives are less and less expressive of the way they work, and the way they are built. Our smart phones for example are infinitely useful, but to most of us, the actual mechanics of the inner technology is completely intangible. In contrast, I love the palpable and transparent technology of engines, bridges, wind-up watches and bicycles. I am fascinated by the moving pieces and the intrinsic relationship between the technology and the form. As I design my products, my goal is to express every component and every connection – a physical diagram of the systems and features unique to each individual product. Instead of hiding the connections, and components, I try to express them and celebrate them.
Each of our products starts simply with the function. For example, a coffee table that provides three practical uses: 1) a beverage tray, 2) an art-object display, 3) and an out-of-the-way book storage. We then research and test the ideal dimensions that will reinforce this functionality and provide the most comfort.
The product is then painstakingly designed and built from architectural materials: blackened mild steel, Baltic birch plywood, annealed glass, and milled aluminum. The steel provides a robust, streamlined structure; the glass provides a light-filled, and ultra-cleanable, practical surface; the birch conveys warmth and softness; and the aluminum sparkles. Each of these components is carefully arranged into a unique sculptural system with modern lines, and refined proportions.
Every connection and every feature of our products is intentionally visible as a means to articulate how the product was made.