PAYETTE’s annual holiday sketchbooks evolve from an interesting path of inspiration and influence. Our work environment breeds ideas; the pin-up alcoves lining the perimeter of our studio are full of project graphics where new insights surface.
Observing on different scales, through a slightly different lens allows for the evolution of these patterns. Reframing a sketch, a diagram, a pattern not only makes for a visually compelling composition but also something meaningful, tied to the work our office does – deconstructed, deliberately composed sketchbook art covers.
2013 sketchbook (produced on elliepooh paper)
Derived from the time and motion study of one of our research laboratories, the mapping of users is printed in metallic silver with the larger circles embossed. This time and motion study transformed into a delicate constellation-like art piece for our sketchbook cover.
2014 sketchbook (produced on wood veneer)
This was inspired by a façade design concept from a new building at George Washington University and lent itself to a rhythmic play of line work when foil stamped in copper metallic, creating a kinetic feel to the cover.
We equally value sustainable materials and in sourcing these covers.
About elliepooh paper
Mr. Ellie Pooh LLC is an eco-friendly Fair Trade company making exotic gifts and paper made partially out of elephant dung. Mr. Ellie Pooh’s paper products are 100% recycled. They are made up of 50% fiber from elephant dung and 50% post consumer paper. There are no toxic chemicals used in the paper making process. Mr. Ellie Pooh’s papers are handmade, acid free and organic.
About wood veneer
Wood veneer is created from the excess of harvested trees used for different wood manufacturing businesses. Graphic Wood Technologies plants a tree for each log harvested, which helps sustain and improve national forests.
The 2025 OpenLAB Boston studio work will be exhibited at Virginia Tech Monday, March 2nd through Wednesday, March 4th.
Please join us for the following events on Monday, March 2nd:
11:00am - Lecture with Parke MacDowell
1:00pm Lobby talk with Kevin Sullivan
This year’s studio identifies seven sites along the frayed edges of Boston’s Greenway. The Greenway is a one-mile-long linear park running through the heart of the city, reconnecting downtown Boston with its waterfront. Many of the parcels along its edges remain undeveloped and present mute, blank facades to the public realm. Addressing and repairing these edges through acts of infilling, layering, grafting, framing, and placemaking is the core focus of the studio—SUTURE.