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|  | | | SWOON, the studio _ THE COLLABORATION ISSUE | |  | Exploring and expanding into new design territories has been at the heart of SWOON since our very first days. As a small team, partnering with like-minded people is the key to working just outside our comfort zone, by constantly pushing our range of design work while maintaining a level of both quality and consistency that feels true to us.
We believe that one of our biggest points of difference is the people we surround ourselves with.
Today, the studio is made up of more than two dozen people with a vast breadth of expertise, and our reach beyond those twenty five talented humans is exponential. Within the studio, we lean on each other's creativity to constantly collaborate. This diversity of backgrounds and experience allows us to tackle more than we ever thought possible. We know this journey is possible not just because of the strength of each other but also the talent and ingenuity of all of our friends, clients, vendors, and people who inspire us to constantly be better. Enter our quarterly ITZACULT update where we will share sneak peeks of what we are working on and celebrate the people who make them happen.
— SWOON, the studio | | | | SOMETIMES A SOFA, ISN’T JUST A SOFA
Sometimes, it’s a collaborative, painstakingly-designed, labor of love between client, designer, and maker.
Sometimes, it’s a sofa, and a bench, and a stealth storage spot, and side tables perfect for perching a cocktail.
Sometimes it’s a 172 inch long, white-oak-wrapped command central, ready to take on movie nights, afternoon naps, marathon reading sessions, and dreamy afternoons spent gazing at the mountains with all your favorite people. | |
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| | | | Illustrating History with Fort Lonesome | x FORT LONESOME
The studio is honored to be working on a multi-year renovation and rebranding of the historic Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas. |
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| One of the most exciting things about embarking on hospitality projects that have over a hundred years of history is uncovering all of the stories and lore interwoven into a space’s past. Our exploration guides a narrative and creates soul, which in turn creates a rich and authentic sense of place. The other component is, of course, layering in new twists and inspired collaborations. (It’s even better if they can celebrate local artisans while highlighting the heritage of both the building itself and the beloved city in which it resides). In thinking about the design and strategy, we couldn't help but circle conversation around the city’s iconic mantra, “Keep Austin Weird” — which in our minds means keep Austin original — and with that, we knew we wanted to incorporate Austin-based Fort Lonesome into the project. We have been a part of their loyal fan base (a cult following really), obsessed with their cosmic western wear and chain stitch brand since we were introduced to them by our dear friend Van Hayes more than a decade ago.
Our team worked with FL to evolve one of their existing patterns, incorporating some Driskill and Austin-specific elements. We could tell you all the details, but we would rather you find ’em yourself during a future visit. The pattern will appear in the guest rooms in a substantial way, but there will also be FL winks and nods throughout the hotel, from uniforms to retail. Stay tuned for more collaborations with people we admire on this very special project as it unfolds. | | | | Montauk Muses |  | The historic Montauk Yacht Club became our canvas for a unique retail curation. Inspired by Montauk’s legacy as a haven for artists and surfers, each designer we worked with was carefully chosen from the region to evoke the spirit of this coastal retreat (think handmade caftans, reflecting the free-spirited essence of local artists, and effortless accessories that pay homage to the laid-back culture that has defined Montauk for decades).
More than a retail space, it’s our celebration of Montauk's soul through authentic collaboration with these makers. |  | | | | | BUZZED | We love the process of designing a coffee cup. (Afterall, it’s often the smallest ways that a brand lives in the world that make the biggest impression.) For the people holding them, our cups are more than just coffee containers — they are a glimpse into their world; a nod to the brand that gives them their daily fix. With a beautifully designed cup, every sip creates the possibility that a regular morning could provide a moment for memorable social connection — we’re addicted. | |
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| | | The Company We Keep |  | | PS.SWOON’S MISSION IS SIMPLE, CREATE A BEAUTIFUL AND COMPELLING PHOTOGRAPH. THE REALITY OF THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES ALCHEMY OF GATHERING JUST THE RIGHT PEOPLE TO MAKE THAT HAPPEN REQUIRES MUCH (MUCH) MORE THAN HAVING THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER OR THE PERFECT MODEL. | | | With so many (constantly) moving parts of photoshoots from unexpected weather to travel hurdles , the orchestration and pre-work is critical. To pull our network of creatives, stylists, agencies, and artists together, we lean on amazing producers. Their involvement and organization helps us to seamlessly coordinate, allowing for a hyper-collaborative and smooth on-set experience. | |
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| | | Material Objects | No matter the project, our inspiration always stems from the raw materials we begin with. This exhibition, launching our new shop and gallery, Shop SWOON, beautifully encapsulates our appreciation and celebration of this fundamental truth. |  | | Not unlike Shop SWOON itself, the immersive installation and shopping experience at Dallas Contemporary was a labor of love and an artful reflection of the studio’s vast talents and passions coming together. | |
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