If you are constantly seeking minimalist design that is also soulful, or Instagram-worthy lights, you will already love Workstead without even knowing.
Founded in 2009 by Robert Highsmith and Stefanie Brechbuehler, Workstead has since built a reputation on the sort of pared down warmth appropriate of a studio straddling Brooklyn’s creative scene and the quietude of upstate New York.
In 2012, the studio showcased their talents in designing the public spaces for Williamsburg’s now iconic Wythe Hotel. At Philadelphia’s Roost Apartment Hotel, their pendant lights pair brilliantly with the ornate ceiling molding and details of a 1920’s office space. Most recently, an old cinema on Hudson, New York’s downtown thoroughfare has become the charming Rivertown Lodge where details from the wood burning stoves to planetary sconces in their brass orbits exude coziness.
This spring they debuted their Case Goods furniture series at ICFF – a tactile hardwood credenza and wardrobe with no hardware to come between fine craftsmanship and your fingertips. Subtly grooved doors and drawers open to multi-use, timeless pieces sure to endure as the center of gravity for any room they inhabit.
It is Workstead’s sublimely celestial lighting fixtures that set the property apart
Cedar ceilings cast a glow over the lobby bar
Case Goods is a series of tactile, hardwood furniture. Pictured, ’The Wardrobe’ in beech
The ’Orbit’ table lamps and wall sconces are their own brass solar system. Table lamps are brilliantly achored by Carrara, Green Marble or Travertine
This black steel wall lamp has seemingly infinite configurations
Robert Highsmith and Stefanie Brechbuehler founded Workstead in 2009. They have studios in Brooklyn and upstate New York, and split their operations between Brooklyn and Charleston
INFORMATION
For more information, visit the Workstead website
-
‘I want to bring anxiety to the surface': Shannon Cartier Lucy on her unsettling worksIn an exhibition at Soft Opening, London, Shannon Cartier Lucy revisits childhood memories
-
What one writer learnt in 2025 through exploring the ‘intimate, familiar’ wardrobes of ten friendsInspired by artist Sophie Calle, Colleen Kelsey’s ‘Wearing It Out’ sees the writer ask ten friends to tell the stories behind their most precious garments – from a wedding dress ordered on a whim to a pair of Prada Mary Janes
-
Year in review: 2025’s top ten cars chosen by transport editor Jonathan BellWhat were our chosen conveyances in 2025? These ten cars impressed, either through their look and feel, style, sophistication or all-round practicality
