DESIGN CRUSH: ASHER ISRAELOW

A Brooklyn-based designer whose handcrafted design gives us butterflies

In a world where we’re often promised the stars, it’s refreshing to come across someone who actually delivers. Okay, they’re not real stars, but Asher Israelow‘s brass constellations, set in their vibrant wooden sky, are just as magical. And it’s admittedly such irresistible techniques of seduction that have us head-over-heels for the Brooklyn-based creator’s design.

Born in New York City, Israelow graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2008 with a degree in fine arts and architecture. Four short years later, he could already be found on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list and had been commissioned to design a table for the prestigious David H. Koch Theater in New York.

Unsurprisingly, architecture permeates his design. His furniture is geometric and structured: columns, cantilevers and careful proportions. But material contrast and small, rare elements of whimsy add charm, combating any potential austerity.

All of his designs are either custom or small batch and made with locally and ethically sourced materials. Leather, brass and walnut create a sophisticated and raw pallet of handcrafted design, and the prevalent use of dark materials and bright accents is a refreshing change in a world blond wood and plastic. Here’s to brass constellations and the staying power of great design.