Hamilton Holmes
Hamilton Holmes is a creative furniture studio with a foundation in craft, an interest in art, and ethics focused on sustainability.
The main themes of the studio work are traditional methods and contemporary style. The combination of time tested techniques like hand cut joinery or proportional design guarantee that all work meets a standard of quality higher than most other producers.
The studio prides itself on attention to detail, from the initial sketch to the finished piece --everything is artisan made and crafted.
Q&A with Hamilton Holmes
Where did you grow up? How did it influence you?
Hamilton, Ontario. The architecture of the houses and buildings in our city from 1800-1950 really influenced my design style. As an industrial manufacturing city, there were periods of opulence that built beautiful indulgent buildings. It’s the detail in those buildings that really spur my details in furniture.
What’s the most prized object you own?
Probably my clothing collection-- not an object, but a series of objects. Clothes are my proto design materials. I've experimented since I was a child and I take joy every day in creating outfits. This brings creative joy to literally every moment of my life.
In a world overflowing with objects, why continue making new things?
We make quality things that can last a long time. We want to stop the cycle of disposable items by encouraging people to buy, appreciate and care for their things. We believe that our objects get better over time as they become a part of the owner(s).
What design movement, current or historic, do you think is the most overrated and why?
I think every moment has a pure beginning and an impure end. So when I look at movements, I'm looking to appreciate the pure.
What’s your favorite material to work with and why?
Wood--it's our go-to material. It's easy for us to manipulate (using our skillset and tools), it's organic and imperfect in a good way, and it isn't toxic.
If you designed a chair describing your relationship with your father, what would it look like?
Wow. I guess it would be a chair sitting on top of another chair. Stacking chairs?
Tell us about something that inspires you.
Nature is a huge inspiration on a spiritual level-- flow, energy, movement, natures archetypes-- they all continually refuel me and inspire me.
What would you do differently if you started your practice today?
I would probably go into interior design. Wood fabrication requires years to refine material skill and knowledge, and I don't have that kind of time. That being said, maybe I would enjoy a naïve approach to making and take a different path in being creative with wood--pure sculpture maybe?
Any advice for young designers?
Work hard and understand that no one cares how hard you work.
Any regrets?
They change every day--so NO!
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