Resources
John Anderson
John runs Utilitarian Workshop with partner Nicole Williams. Together they design furniture and spaces highly customized to their clients’ personality and voice.
How Do Your Clients Influence the Work?
Generally, we begin our design process with casual consultations in order to get a feel for the client. In most cases, clients are familiar with our work and have a starting point for reference. We encourage an interactive inspiration process, like a mutual Pinterest board. A project can take an aesthetic shift when collaborating on a mood board. Directions can also shift when collaborating with other trade professionals and artisans. Every project can take unexpected turns and should be embraced.
The Craftsmanship of an Earlier Time Is Being Rediscovered by so Many Right Now. Do You See This as a Lasting Trend? I Mean, We Hope So, Right?
Yeah, it’s great to see a resurgence in craft, especially in arts and trades that affect the community positively. Shopping and eating locally has been decimated by corporations and by our own habits and appetites as consumers. It’s important to keep the context of our immediate environment in mind when talking about reclaiming the craftsmanship of an earlier time. There’s a fine line between what we need and what we want… but that’s a whole other discussion.
What’s the Most Rewarding Aspect of the Work You and Nicole Are Doing Right Now?
Our business is primarily focused on helping other creatives and artisans realize their own dreams and visions. For us, the real reward is seeing clients flourish professionally in their respective fields and knowing we helped to shape their futures.
Can You Get a Coffee or Decent Meal in Kc Anymore Without Being Surrounded by Your Work?
Ha, that’s nice to say. There are more than a few inspiring spaces around town we were not part of, but would love to have been! In our experience, it’s the culinary folks who are really putting as much emphasis on design as the product on the plate or in the cup. Acknowledging the patrons’ desire to have an all encompassing experience and feel a connection to the brand is important. That being said, I believe an off the beaten path, hole in the wall juke joint can achieve the same effect as a 5-star restaurant. It’s all about the passion behind the facade.
What Is Your Latest Epiphany?
Being an artist you have to accept the emotional and professional highs and lows. It comes with putting yourself out there for others to critique.