Question 1

Where do you get your materials?

Accepted Answer

We source our wood locally, mostly from salvage yards in Berkeley and the Oakland area, but also from new home construction and renovation/remodeling sites, (with permission) and from lumber yards that have off-cuts, from larger pieces. This help keeps them all out of landfills, as many of them can't be used for wood chips and such.

Question 2

Where do you get your paint?

Accepted Answer

All our paint is from the "oops" section of the paint departments of local hardware stores. While we try and pick colors that are in the spectrum of the mid-century palette, we also mix on site, accordingly.

Question 3

Why not a CNC machine?

Accepted Answer

For now, we're happy to build everything by hand, as our products are mostly recycled and up-cycled materials, in varying quality. This takes a little more effort, for sure. Eventually, we'll add a line of products, made from higher end materials and and possibly add some machining, depending on product demand.

Question 4

Are you a birder?

Accepted Answer

While I'm not a birder, our good friend Chris Lynch, also an Oaklander, has really been a wealth of information regarding varieties native to the area, feeding and nesting practices and general ornithological advice. Check out his site for some merch! https://mardaledrive.com/

Question 5

How do you come up with your designs?

Accepted Answer

As a designer, influences come from everywhere. We're big fans of Eichler and Alliance homes, local to The Bay Area, but also from the greats, such as Saarinen, Williams, Van Der Roe, Wright, Johnson, Eames and many more. Palm Springs architecture is most certainly a place to offer inspiration, as well. We also are fans of print designers such as Ed Ruscha and Saul Bass.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Where do you get your materials?

Where do you get your paint?

Why not a CNC machine?

Are you a birder?

How do you come up with your designs?