Considered a fad sport, skateboarding was huge in the late 80's. But the skatepunk façade was killed by the progression of the sport. The kids wearing the image got bummed and "quit" in the early 90's as the sport moved faster than their skill levels. Focus moved beyond enthusiasm to technical proficiency, speed, grace; progression to actual mastery, creative expression, and sub-cultural definition. People that were a part of this know each other like veterans of the same war. Commonalities include an eye for adaptation and optimization, an understanding of materials, a need for continual progression, and a creative spark that reflects these. 20 years since include many things for Brendan- busted bones, piles of sketchbooks, architecture school, transcontinental relocation, work in cabinetry, architecture, retail and exhibit design, lighting design/manufacture. He now works from his own studio, bringing things together and making them work esthetically and functionally. He still rides a skateboard when he finds time.

The distillation of key elements in Ken’s original design:
vertical elements connected by a spine, a void in the top surface;
a spine that terminates in support and celebration of the right angle at either end
of the top surface. Size and form remain consistent within the parameters of the project.

Brendan chose to use steel to contrast and compliment the bamboo of the original. The steel spine takes rigidity in its relation to the bamboo; each warm bamboo panel finds it’s place in the structure defined by the cold steel. The inorganic steel is sealed with wax, a safe, living finish. Form and fabrication for wood and metal are kept basic, focusing on the qualities of the materials present and the intent of an affordable end product.