What I am made of.
As a craftsman deeply inspired by the Mid-Century Modern (MCM) style, I see design as a bridge that connects the past and the present, the simple and the complex, the raw and the refined. This distinctive style, which emerged in the mid-20th century and transformed the landscape of design, architecture, and urban development, forms the bedrock of my work. The works of eminent MCM designers, such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Alvar Alto, Charles & Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi, and Jacob Kjær, have not only inspired my aesthetic but have shaped my understanding of functional beauty.
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The MCM style is defined by its marriage of simplicity and sophistication, an aspect that deeply resonates with my design philosophy. I am drawn to the clean, sharp lines and gentle, organic curves that are characteristic of MCM, viewing them as a reflection of the harmonious interplay between nature and human ingenuity. Whether in the sweeping arc of a chair or the smooth edge of a table, I find a sense of serenity and purpose in these shapes that transcends the ordinary.
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In my work, I strive to infuse each piece with this aesthetic, transforming raw materials into functional art that speaks the language of MCM. Each board that passes through my hands is an opportunity to create something that embodies the elegance of this style while meeting the practical needs of contemporary living. From intricate furnishings to innovative accessories, every piece I craft is a testament to the enduring appeal of MCM design.
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Yet, my design philosophy is not just rooted in the past, but looks towards the future. Embracing modern fabrication technologies, such as CNC, 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, and Engraving, I bring a new dimension to the traditional craft of woodworking. This synthesis of old and new allows me to push the boundaries of what's possible, creating designs that are not only visually captivating but also embody cutting-edge functionality.
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Ultimately, my goal as an artist and craftsman is to bring the timeless charm of MCM into the homes and lives of people. I aim to create pieces that not only add aesthetic value but also inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty of design. Through Board To Home, I invite you to discover the elegance of MCM, the thrill of innovation, and the joy of seeing a piece of raw wood transform into something that can be cherished for years to come.
TECH MEETS DESIGN
Working for IBM I was attending a meeting at our Armonk headquarters and was shocked to find my favorite designer, Charles Eames was prominently presented on our campus. It turns out the Eames brothers (you know that famous chair at the top of the page, right?) played an important role in IBM's culture as brand ambassadors. The couple designed the IBM exhibit at the 1964 World’s Fair, and even produced a very cool 9 minute scientific film "the Powers of 10" (right).
If a tech giant (as IBM was at the time) could lend from such an astute designer, surely a geek such as myself could traverse technology and craftsmanship?
IBM's Watson Research Center in Armonk, NY, captivates admirers of mid-century modern design with its iconic architecture and innovative use of materials. The building showcases clean lines, geometric shapes, and expansive glass facades that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design harmoniously blends modernist principles with a futuristic vision, embodying the spirit of mid-century design in a contemporary context.
Another partnership between IBM and the Eames brothers was the production of the exhibit titled "Mathematica" for the California museum of science and industry.
Join me on my ongoing journey through contemporary design. This site is a door into my quirky mind. I am happy to share my techniques, original designs, plans and inspirations. One common theme you will find is that I prefer simplicity. That does not mean my designs are simple to build, however I avoid unnecessary embellishments and stick to basic lines, angles and shapes.