About

Formlab Design Studio is a forum for design exploration in furniture design, product design, and architecture. With an emphasis on both virtual tools and physical processes, Formlab is a place where ideas about form generation, and the possibilities provided by current modes of production are allowed to interact and play. We envision our work as a series of collaborations between designers and manufacturers. By utilizing local manufacturing resources, and hiring local talent, we are tapping into a long history of innovation and fabrication in Los Angeles, which has a multi-generational depth of knowledge. By combining design and manufacturing, we are able to explore results in real time and understand all elements of the process.

The group of tables that are currently photographed represent the first steps on a path. This furniture shows the level of quality and craftsmanship we produce, however we are very interested in following any new directions that the Formlab explorations may lead. For example, the conference table is our first leap outside the all-wood world. The use of metal fabrication, including assembling parts by tapping screws into aluminum, and using metal mortise joints, has its own trajectory. This experience is leading us to explore CNC milling from digital models, casting and the use of compressible rubber in furniture joints.

At Formlab we will use digital fabrication techniques in combination with our design expertise, intuition, and experience to create beautiful and wonderful things. The digital fabrication techniques of laser-jet cutting, water jet cutting and CNC milling have been in use for several years and we are aware of the products being produced using these methods. The focus is generally on decorative objects, screens, marketing displays, ceiling panels, railing panels, and other items that are pattern based and attached to a conventionally constructed primary structure. There has been limited success in adapting these techniques to items requiring structural integrity in a cost effective way. Furniture is our bridge to producing functional objects requiring strength and stability.

We are excited to be engaged in this exploration. Keep your eye out for future collaborations.