One of the things I enjoy about architecture is the synthesis of form and concept. The aspect of handcraft is important to me in a design, the details and construction coming together to inform the whole design. I’m hoping to garner a better understanding of shoe-making technique in the near future to be able to create honest, confident, quality, intelligent and dynamic footwear that upholds these qualities in their wearers. The shoe and the shelter are very similar and dear to me, but the chance to put my hands on each step of the process and create from primitive to refined a shoe has won my heart. In a shoe, the scale of the project, the connection of the human to the project, and the nature of adornment allow for a more diverse range of expression and experimentation. “Oh, the places you’ll go” in the shoes I make.

Idea 1 | Copper details that patina with age. Pondering the tan heel being in patent against a much more mat, grained leather covering the heel and front half of the upper. The cut-away aspects meant to reveal and compliment both metal detailing and the wearers foot.

Idea 2 | Some flight of fancy, a nod to the mythical messenger Hermes, the ‘wing’ detailing only appears on the exterior of each shoe, ankle buckle to the interior. The shaping of the toe box, counter and heel (smooth, sculptural, wooden) add to a sense of whimsy, and also draw the eye along invisible lines.

Idea 3 | Began with an image of a Japanese Noh mask, abstracted and made into Pop art. The ankle detail is mirrored on both sides, like one half of a mask pulling towards the other. The bands represent a kind of tension, as the heel cutout and sphere demonstrate a kind of suspense as well.

Idea 4 | The moebius strip as inspiration. The single fold in a soft leather slipper that exposes the delicate inner arch of the foot.

Idea 5 | A nod to Dr Seuss. The spherical omission in the platform is offset by the continuation of the heel to cover the sides and back of the foot.

Idea 6 | The edge of the knife. There’s something beautiful about the evolved shape of highly efficient knives, something worth sheathing.

Idea 7 | A touch of colour to highlight the details. A minimal sandal with ankle strap.

Idea 8 | A little harder edge. Exaggerated rigid leather, wooden heel and studded leather softened by a ribbon closure and sock-like mesh upper.

More to come!