[Masterclass] Integrating Custom Metalwork into Design Spaces
For our November Masterclass, Dering Hall was joined by Erik Johnson, cofounder of Argosy Designs and Argosy Product Division, to discuss the different ways custom metalwork can be integrated into design spaces. In this informative and engaging session, Erik delves into three main categories of custom metalwork providing visual examples and detailed descriptions for each:
Signature Statement Architectural Pieces – large statement pieces such as escalators and floating staircases, and staircase enclosures that really stand out on their own as a distinct element of the architectural whole.
Functional Interior Architectural Metalwork – more practical and attainable interior work such as interior partitions, stairs, doors, and functional metalwork.
Signature Furniture and Lighting – furniture and lighting pieces containing metal elements and metal accent pieces that can be integrated into your designs.
As a general note, Erik states the importance of knowing what you want. When it comes to the design process, it is extremely helpful when designers have a firm idea of what they’re looking for – especially when it comes to materials and finishes and how they might be applied to what they are trying to achieve. While it’s not expected that designers should have a full knowledge of the specifics involved with custom metalwork, the more details they can provide the easier it is for metal fabricators to provide guidance and begin creating mockups.
To learn more about custom metalwork in interior design, please view the video at the top of the page. Dering Hall would like to thank Erik Johnson and the Argosy Designs / Argosy Product Division team for presenting this enlightening and interactive masterclass.
About Erik Johnson
Erik Johnson is an artist, designer, and craftsman who founded the acclaimed Brooklyn-based design and metal fabrication firm, Argosy Designs in 2004. Argosy collaborates with a range of clients in interior and architectural design to execute projects for residential and commercial spaces, including staircases, windows, doors, sculpture, hardware, lighting, and furniture.
Originally trained in the fine arts, where he studied classical painting, drawing, and printmaking techniques, Erik’s paintings and drawings have been shown throughout the United States and are held in numerous private collections. Through this study, Erik has developed an acute eye for color, reflection and texture that he has applied to both his design and metalwork.
In 2018, Erik launched Argosy Product Division (APD) with his wife and business partner Jen Johnson-Kuhn. APD is a collection of lighting, furniture, objects, and limited-edition pieces that leverage both his artistic background and experience with metal fabrication and finishing.
Meticulous engineering, skilled craftsmanship, and hard work inform Erik’s design process, drawing inspiration from the same energy that motivated designers and engineers of past eras to push the limits of vehicles, aircraft, and machinery. His experience in fabrication and his passion for the arts are revealed in the collection’s expressive, yet restrained, forms, materials, and finishes.