September 30, 2021
Creative Humans: Say hello to Otherside Objects.
By Nabi Williams.
We first learned of the Miami-born, Los Angeles-based designer, Sam Klemick, a few months ago when she shared with us her dream of pivoting from her long-time career as a fashion designer to become a full-fledged woodworker and industrial designer. Sam was all in. And we were inspired by her bravery to start completely anew.
Since then, Sam has debuted an outstanding collection of sculptural, hand-crafted, made-to-order furniture and objects.
Taking inspiration from her profession in fashion, Sam repurposes deadstock fabrics to produce unique and dynamic pieces that are elegant, functional, and kind to the Earth. Her signature piece, the Bell Chair, is an epitome of this practice. Pulling from her love of Maison Margiela’s Duvet Coat, Sam uses factory seconds— also known as “rejects” that would normally go to waste— to create sleek and modern cushions that sit atop its conical oak frame.
Fearless and passionate about connecting with fellow humans, Sam uses her designs as a way to inspire people to be more mindful and intentional with their purchases.
Since her partnership with us, Sam has been featured in the WSJ, Clever, AD, GRAZIA, and more.
And in celebration, we’re delighted to welcome Sam to The Humanist.
Continue reading below to find out more.
Company Profile
Otherside Objects is a design practice focused on furniture and objects hand-crafted by Sam Klemick. Her work combines new materials with discarded furniture and deadstock fabrics to reimagine traditional forms.
Otherside Objects is a design practice focused on furniture and objects hand-crafted by Sam Klemick. Her work combines new materials with discarded furniture and deadstock fabrics to reimagine traditional forms.
Born in Miami and based in Los Angeles, Sam’s approach to woodworking is informed by her career in fashion design.
A design/art/architecture project that you always return to for inspiration?
The Duvet Coat by Martin Margiela. I can’t help it! I am constantly thinking about it and comforters in general. I don't spend a lot of time in my bed, but I suppose I spend a lot of time thinking about the comfort of my bed.
Three words that describe your practice?
Scrappy, honest, bubbly.
With your work, what do you think you’re contributing to?
I hope I'm contributing to the return of human made things. I think technology is wonderful (sometimes), but making things for others with my own two hands feels important. I feel like this world needs more loving human exchanges and a break from screens and automation.
I hope I can be a designer that inspires people to rethink their purchases and prioritize the importance and meaning that objects can carry when they are made by a fellow human.
What place or space makes you feel most alive? Most like home?
LA Woodshop! I am part of a woodworking collective in Los Angeles, and our woodshop is my favorite place in the city. My friends own and run the space and have created a wonderful little community. I come here everyday to both zone out into my own world, but also to laugh and connect with my shop mates. I have learned so much by being a part of this space and feel very lucky to have it as a daily refuge.
Is there something that seems out of character for you but actually informs your practice/work?
I would say obsession and repetition. If you were to meet me, those two things would probably not come to mind… but my brain will ruminate on a certain shape or idea for months.
It is usually a shape or idea I want to create but haven't quite figured out. For a year it was cones, how to make them feel soft, how to make them feel like they are melting into the ground or walking away. I also always find a song or two that I listen to on repeat for several weeks to months for the specific project I am working on.
What’s most important to you in this life?
People. My friends, my family, my clients. Connecting with the people in my life is what fuels me. And now, with my furniture practice, I get to connect with clients and make something specifically for them and for their home. To me, that is the absolute most gratifying part of my work and life.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received? Best piece of advice you’ve told others?
To not make decisions based on fear. Four years ago, I had to decide if I would leave New York and come back to LA or stay. I made a list of reasons why I shouldn't leave and was unaware that they were all things rooted in fear.
In a conversation with my sister, she told me, “it is okay if you stay in New York, but you have to acknowledge that you are making that decision out of fear.”
Once it was so clearly pointed out to me, it was easy to make the brave decision. I have had to go back to this advice alot while starting my own business.
Sam Klemick of Otherside Objects in the LA Woodshop. Photo by Emily Greene