HELD, in our minds… A collection of things that stay with us. Art, objects, books, places, music, experiences, and ideas that shape and influence HELD, both for ourselves and for the people who follow along with us. Some hit quietly over time. Others feel immediate. All reflect the creativity, permanence, and thoughtful presence that continue to inspire HELD.
Reflection & Refraction - Echo Park is a neighborhood in East Los Angeles, California, centered around the historic Echo Park Lake, an oasis within the city's urban landscape. Originally transformed from a reservoir into a public park in 1891, the area earned its name after a landscaper claimed he could hear his voice echoing off the surrounding hills. That interplay of reflection and refraction remains a defining characteristic of the lake today. During Los Angeles’s infrequent periods of heavy rain, the lake overflows beyond its usual boundaries, temporarily expanding the oasis. The excess water, illuminated by sunlight, creates new perspectives on the lake’s flora and fauna, revealing unexpected dimensions of its natural beauty. This experience of rediscovering beauty within familiar surroundings inspires HELD to continually seek new ways to appreciate the world around us.
Dented Pitcher - Discovered at Uncommon Cafe in Amsterdam, the Pleat Pitcher by New Works, designed by Omayra Maymó, immediately caught our attention. A simple cylinder interrupted by a single dent and subtle pleat, just enough to form a spout and naturally guide the hand while pouring. No extra gestures, no decoration. What stayed with us was the quiet sophistication of the object and how clearly the form followed function. Restrained, balanced, and completely comfortable in use, while still holding a strong presence on the table.
Color & Shape - While visiting the Grand Palais to see the work of Hilma af Klint, we were struck by the precision of her geometry, the balance of color, and the quiet details woven throughout the work through typography, symbolism, and scale. Learning that a major influence on Klint was Modern Chromatics by Ogden Nicholas Rood made the experience even more meaningful. The book’s study of color, from the late 1800's, felt clearly present in the paintings. We left inspired by the idea that deep study, care, and thoughtful execution can still create experiences that feel approachable, human, and lasting.
Vintage Car Culture - With each new generation comes new trends. One movement gaining momentum among older Gen Z and millennials is vintage car culture. Whether restoring a 1970s Ford F-150 or collecting a pristine Mercedes-Benz 560 SL, younger enthusiasts are drawn to the craftsmanship and character of vehicles from an era they never experienced firsthand. In a world increasingly filled with electric and automated vehicles, vintage cars stand out for their attention to detail, rarity, and timeless design. These qualities are what make them collectible. HELD aims to embrace the same principles. We create objects that are thoughtfully crafted, distinctive, and built to stop people in their tracks and invite a deeper appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship.
New Musical Genre: Train Jazz - Created by Joshua Wolk, Train Jazz transforms the real-time movement of trains through the New York City Subway into a calm, immersive musical experience. What first appears simple reveals surprising depth. Built from technology, motion, and shared public data, it somehow creates a sense of space, stillness, and reflection. We loved that something so thoughtful and calming could be created from the constant motion and noise of the subway. The sounds evoke the feeling of riding through New York late at night, when the city becomes quieter, more colorful, and almost dreamlike. Like the objects we admire most, it slows time and invites you to linger a little longer.
Brass House- Found at Counter Space, this small solid brass house by Takashi Hirayama immediately stayed with us. The weight, material, simplicity of the object, and care in its packaging felt balanced at first glance. Researching the designer brought us to Hirayama from Perfect Days. The same quiet presence, appreciation for simple rituals, and thoughtful beauty live in both. The film’s cinematography, pacing, music, and restraint all feel closely connected to the kind of objects HELD hopes to create.
