“zoomorphism” applies animal characteristics to the expression of form. the exploration of organic and natural shapes is intentional and began in contrast to the more pervasive 20th-century modernist style. in architecture, saarinen’s twa terminal or calatrava’s Milwaukee art museum are sweeping silhouettes that transcend time.

i invited designers who expressed zoomorphism in their work to bring a cast of friendly characters to life. at the time, i was leading product development for a steelcase design company where our existing portfolio included iconic pieces by the great danish designers hans wegner and finn juhl. their work inspired me to pursue progressive, organic craft solutions as a way to soften the rigid design formality of workplace environments. 

furniture craft was deep in the DNA of our company and the heritage of north carolina. my goal was to express our exceptional woodcraft and textile tailoring to a new generation of space planners and designers. these radically different products were introduced years before the craft movement became more mainstream. the effort brought in design awards and press recognition.