All images and reporting by Carren Jao. Above, the "Parker" from the Retro Collection

In the sea of flashy exhibition design and flashing lights, it was a relief to be drawn in by the woodwork of Jory Brigham Design. My wandering eye first settled on the "Silent Evolution" bench displayed in the Dwell Outdoor section. I loved the contrast of the dark teak wood and concrete bench that served double-time as a planter. I wanted to know more about the item, but didn't see anyone I could talk to. It was only days later that I finally happened by their booth on the showfloor. Finally! Someone I can talk to about the "Silent Evolution!"

The seating's inspiration comes from the concept of comfortable silence. "You know, when you're with somebody and you kind of feel that freedom to not to talk and just simply sit in silence?" explains artist and designer Tyler Wohlford, one of Jory Brigham Design's collaborators. Indeed, "Silent Evolution" captures that feeling of serenity with its clean lines, mixed materials and the added comfort of a living, breathing organism planted right beside you. Not to mention that the bench is made from durable, weather-resistant materials, perfect for the outdoors.

"Silent Evolution" bench

Jory Brigham Design is based out of San Luis Obispo, California. Brigham comes from generations of woodworkers, architects and designers. All his uncles and cousins work with wood and create rustic products—making Brigham a black sheep of sorts.

Clearly, Brigham's work is anything but rustic. Wohlford points out that everything (even the fluting and texturing on the furniture) is handmade without the help of CNC routers. Extra wow.

Check out videos of Jory creating the fluting by hand after the jump and go to his blog for more process shots.The Retro collection was most compelling. Each piece was created to stand on its own and reminded this writer of the playfulness of Googie architecture—bold angles, bright colors and perfectly Californian. By tweaking details of a template wall mount, Brigham Designs creates a legless version of the item, adds in drawers or keeps an area hollow for a shelf.

The Borgs

Brigham also makes room for a little fun by adding a colorful fluted door on the "Parker" and the "Torino"—the color can be customized according to your taste. I'd like mine in powder blue, please.

Brigham Designs takes pride in a family heritage in woodworking turning conventional materials and creating beautiful modern pieces.

the fluted door from Jory Brigham on Vimeo.

the Organic from Jory Brigham on Vimeo.