Shannon Bowser is the owner of Brooklyn SLaB LLC, a bespoke furniture and fabrication studio based in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Shannon specialises in eye-catching accent pieces specifically designed for compact spaces in modern urban homes. Each and every piece she creates is a hybrid of traditional decorative arts and contemporary modernism. She also merges random patterns found in nature with the structured architectural forms of modern design. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Shannon Bowser.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My furniture combines elements of midcentury design with traditional veneering and marquetry techniques. Attention to detail is essential. I incorporate many different types of unusual wood finishes in my designs.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I start out by making quick pencil sketches of ideas which are further honed in Sketchup. I then make a full-sized mockup, and lay out my wood selections to figure out what works together.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
It would be impossible to name one person. My former instructors and fellow woodworkers at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Maine have my utmost respect and admiration for their integrity, creativity, encouragement, and generosity. Coming from an arts background, I've also encountered many artists throughout the years who have been inspirational and influential.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I look to modern architecture and patterns found in nature for inspiration. My recent pieces combine architectural elements such as interlocking bricks and modernist rectangular volumes with intricate patterns found on moth or bee wings.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I have a background in sculpture and have always been a builder. I formed Brooklyn SLaB to pursue my passion for woodworking and to translate my artistic influences into functional design. My advice for starting a business is to be prepared to invest more of yourself than you planned. Be persistent, patient, work hard, and do what makes you happy.
