The Comforts of Working from Home: Home Offices and Fine Craft
This past year and a half helped usher in a new standard for working from home. As some migrate back to the in-person office, others have discovered that when it comes to going to work, there’s no place like home. To help create a welcoming home office environment that is not only utilitarian and productive, but also inviting, we bring you beautiful craft to balance out the computer, printer, and all the other necessities of office life.
(Above: Desk by Robert Spiece and Larissa Huff)
This desk by Robert Spiece and Larissa Huff has it all, embodying an elegance and sophistication to inspire a great work environment and an oasis for creativity. Rob and Larissa use time-honored woodworking techniques, ensuring that every piece becomes an heirloom. Their work was recognized at last year’s PMA Craft Show as they were recipients of the Wharton Esherick Museum Prize for Excellence in Wood. Rob and Larissa’s studio is on a farm in Schwenksville, PA, just an hour from Philly.
(Above: Chair by Alan Daigre, pencil cup by Dean Babin, mug by Janel Jacobson)
The comforts of home often begin with a comfortable place to sit. Alan Daigre’s office chairs provide a focal point plus the comfort and contour of his uniquely crafted design. Each chair raises or lowers, rocks, and swivels and is definitely the center of attention. The seat and back consist of individual wood blocks threaded together through the frame by a single cable encased to protect the wood and the cable. This technique adds to the structural integrity of the chair—with the block seat and back suspended, the chair adjusts to the body. Alan’s chairs may be for sitting, but they truly stand out.
(Above: Lamps by Evan Chambers and Jorgelina Lopez)
Lighting is a key component in the work environment of a home office.
Jorgelina Lopez’s work is influenced by both Japanese and mid-century design, exploring the dynamic and structure of various folding patterns. Jorgelina began working with fiber in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Moving to the USA in 2016, she began collaborating with her partner Marco Duenas, a wood and cross-disciplinary artist. Together they started the latest collection, called La Loupe Design.
Evan Chambers is known for his whimsical approach to metalwork and his art nouveau designs. On the lighting side, Evan’s lamps are functional and fun, adding not only light to the room, but a specific design element. Evan grew up making objects in his parents’ metal, ceramics, and stained glass studios. He hasn’t stopped since and has owned his Los Angeles studio since 2009.
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A small but delightful accent to the desk is the pencil cup by Dean Babin. Based in upstate New York, Dean is a furniture designer and maker who trained at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship’s program in Maine. Dean’s passion for his work dates back to childhood and building with Lego. He still keeps this playful approach, creating cohesive pieces that are quietly pleasing, structurally sound, unique, and fun.
(Above: Teapot and cup by Mea Rhee, shelf by Christina Vincent, wall piece by Michael Bauermeister)
When it’s time for a coffee (or tea) break….
Nothing like a favorite mug, right? Janel Jacobson loves making useful pieces for others to incorporate into their daily lives. In addition to her handmade mugs, her current porcelain clay work includes bowls, plates, covered containers, and an assortment of items that can be found in kitchens for food preparation.
Get inspired with Mea Rhee’s beautiful teapot and cup, ready for your favorite brew. Guided by her Korean heritage, Maryland upbringing, and graphic design education and background, Mea drives her passion for her work through functional designs with minimal and rustic style, always considering the balance and movement of the pieces in action.
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A handmade shelf to hold special books and favorite craft objects is a great addition to the workspace. Christina Vincent’s work is crafted from hand-selected materials, natural finishes, and traditional joinery, combining good design, attention to detail, and aesthetic appearance. Hailing from Maine, Christina resides on a picturesque unabridged island where access is only by boat or plane.
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To round out the workspace in your home, how about this wall piece by Michael Bauermeister? With its calming river inspired design and textured pattern, it’s just the right addition when you look up from your desk and do a bit of daydreaming.
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There is so much you can do with your working at home space and you’ll find plenty of design inspiration at this year’s in-person and online show this November 5-7 with a preview event on November 4. Stay tuned and watch the website and social media for artist and ticket information.
