North Carolina-based Mike Newins is an American designer and the founder of Make Nice studio. Newins is a self-taught craftsperson and interdisciplinary designer, making instinctual and precise furniture that lives between the soft and the severe. The work is heavily influenced by artists of the Light and Space Movement, 2000’s punk DIY culture, neo-noir science fiction movies, and an enthusiasm for manufacturing processes. Gestural minimalism and utilitarian craft are the primary languages of the studio. Newins loves podcasts, dogs and large empty rooms. Learn more about Mike and his designs in today’s Maker Monday.
Room Divider – A three-panel room divider, made with hard maple posts and floating, decorated panels. Panels are hand-inked in a playful causal pattern.
Andrew Joseph: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
Mike Newins: Stark, intentional, fun
AJ: What was the last book you read and how did it inspire you?
MN: The Overstory by Richard Powers; I was on the cusp of crying the entire read, from a mix of beauty appreciation and despair. I feel re-radicalized in my love for trees, and my commitment to making work that is ecologically considered.
Stone Mirror – An 18″ round mirror that rests in a hand-carved stone base.
AJ: What is your favorite place to find inspiration?
MN: Old movies I watch when I’m sick, so the imaginings of set designers and directors can seep into my weakened brain.
AJ: What is your favorite design-related quote?
MN: Doing one thing differently is often the same as doing everything differently – Matt Haig, The Midnight Library.
Limestone Table (1) – A gesturally sculpted limestone base with a 16″ round top made of solid ash and oak.
AJ: What’s a new hobby/skill that you have learned recently?
MN: I’ve been saying “and” instead of “but”. And it counts as a hobby.
About the Maker | Make Nice is Mike Newins’ North Carolina-based fabrication studio, focusing on handcrafted modern furniture and functional objects. Make Nice offers small batch production, design services, custom fabrication and prototypes.
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