Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Newman.
Hi Ben, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Ben Newman Studio was built out of necessity. From a very young age, I was surrounded by artists, makers and doers. Both of my grandfathers worked in lumber mills back home in Wisconsin. My father built custom furniture and my mother had an incredible knack for thrifting and was almost always tweaking or remodeling or redecorating my childhood homes. My uncles, who also helped raise me, were painters and artists – so, I am truly a product of my environment and upbringing. I can see their influence in many of my design choices today and I continue to credit them for all giving me the upbringing any child would thrive in. It’s because of that creative co-parenting that I realized creative architecture was my passion. But, as a child who struggled with severe dyslexia, I was steered away from that as a possible career path. The shift from learning trades within the design space – like steelwork, creating 3D Models, etc. to what Ben Newman Studio is today truly happened over time. I’m proud of the thoughtful growth the company and team have taken on in the past couple of years. I’m still not an AIA architect, but I try to approach every project from that mental stance and, in turn, get to partner with some of my greatest friends and colleagues to create incredible spaces all over the country.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Creating Ben Newman Studio has been both simple and challenging at the same time. Finding, fostering and curating a niche market for ourselves in the design space has been an exercise in patience and collaboration. While I don’t have a formal degree in architecture or design, my background in sustainable living really honed my skillset and future plans. I spent a handful of years in steelwork and while that is some of the most grueling work out there, it taught me a lot about form and function. I use this intel on every design project we have today. The hardest part has been trusting the process. We have been extremely lucky to get all of our business through word of mouth and repeat clients. I know this is a testament to our growing team’s involvement in the day to day management of the projects as well as our collective desire to make design accessible to as many people as possible. We’re at a pretty big pivot point as we are scaling up quickly. I feel fortunate to have a team – both in the upfront design space and an incredible construction crew – that constantly wants BNS to level up. And I’m ready for what comes next.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Ben Newman Studio is a design and builds firm based in Austin, Texas. Our services are as diverse as our growing team. From conceptual design, construction and furnishing the final product, we offer each client a fully customizable experience. We don’t believe in a one size fits all approach. We specialize in creating spaces that provide a sense of expanse while thoughtfully complimenting the spaces around them. From commercial build outs, residential remodels, artisan treehouses and ADU’s – we aim to inspire anyone who experiences one of our spaces. Each project is a unique collaboration between our team and our clients – as each client requires a space unique to their lifestyle. Our job as designers is to listen to what our clients are saying, understand what they want without them having to say anything, and translating that information into a space that works for their lives and their land. Being able to create spaces where people feel completely at peace is always the ultimate payoff.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I think it’s so important for everyone to reinforce that the smartest people are constantly learning. No matter how successful someone appears – they didn’t get there on their own. Collaboration, especially in creative fields, is imperative to expanding your understanding of the industry and what it takes to continue to be successful in it. I believe reaching out to the people who inspire me with a message ensuring they’re aware of how their work has impacted me works wonders. Inviting people to coffee or making yourself available to fit into their schedule is key.
Contact Info:
- Website: bnewman.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/bennewmanstudio
Image Credits
Photographers include Andrea Calo, Ben Newman, Forest Croft
