Secret experiments
Architecture firm showcasing unique designs to the public
An Island architecture firm will be unveiling its secret experiments for all to see. The whole nine yards of them.
Nine Yards Studio is holding an open house event at its Charlottetown office on July 30. The event will feature some of the team’s experimental objects and furniture pieces, allowing the community to see the creative process behind designing each one.
Shallyn Murray, firm coowner, hopes the event builds an awareness for how design can impact the community.
“It’s a showcase of design on all scales.”
About a year ago, the firm set up its Secret Design Bunker – a workshop where staff could experiment with creative designs. The first thing they created was a small desk clock made primarily of plywood.
“We wanted to explore a material that was readily available,” Murray said.
Strips of plywood were stacked on top of one another, then rounded and sanded by a CNC machine, which is computer coded and works like a 3D printer. They call it the Beaver because of the many problems it posed, such as chopping up more wood than they intended.
Another design they explored was a clock. It ended up being a light object with a contemporary design and a practical use, made from what’s otherwise a harsh material.
Another of their designs features a classic board game played across P.E.I.
“We wanted to do a real modern take on a crib board,” Murray said. “We take inspiration from Island culture.”
“[We’re] transforming material through thoughtful design,” office manager Brandon Hood said. “Using technology and craftsmanship.”
Those pieces and more will be on display during the upcoming event, called the Secret Design Bunker Pop-up. It will feature several other object prototypes, such as desk accessories and a lamp.
The firm is known for its contemporary esthetic when designing houses and complexes. While they have clients across the Maritimes, they also believe in being part of the community, exemplified by their Charlottetown initiatives like the Urban Beehive Project and displaying their art pieces during Art in the Open.
Silva Stojak, firm co-owner, said designing can often be a creative outlet for the members of her firm.
“[We’re] trying to find ways to express ourselves,” she said.
Which is partly why they’re showing the community what they’ve been up to and sharing their designs to discuss. Anyone is welcome to pop by their office from 12 noon to 8 p.m. on July 30.